Pointer: Temperament, Exercise, Grooming, Health

(English Pointer)

Group: Hound; Scent Hound

AKC Ranking: 5

Also Known As: English Pointer, Spanish Pointer

About Pointer

Origin The Pointer was developed two centuries ago by crossing among the Italian Pointer, the Foxhound, the Bloodhound, the Greyhound, the Newfoundland, the Setter, and the Bulldog. Description The Pointer is powerful, athletic, well-muscled, graceful and aristocratic. It carries its head proudly. The nose is set higher than the rest of the muzzle. The eyes are hazel or chestnut depending on the color of the coat.

The medium-sized ears are pendant and somewhat pointed. The neck is long. The tail is straight and tapered and is never docked. The feet are oval. Dewclaw removal on the front legs is optional. The short, sleek, shiny coat comes in primarily white, but may be liver, lemon, black or orange, either solid, patched, speckled or tri-colored.

Height

Dogs 22-24 inches (55-62cm.)
Bitches 21-24 inches (54-60cm.)

Weight: 44-66 pounds (20-30kg)

Temperament

The Pointer is affectionate, intelligent, clean, loyal and devoted to his family. They are also extremely sweet and love to cuddle, play with other pets, and enjoy the company of other humans. It is Kind and patient with children and other pets but reserved with strangers. An energetic and enthusiastic hunter. Wise and adaptable to every situation. Socialize well at an early age to combat a tendency for timidity. Some can be high-strung. They tend to be a bit willful and distractible. Show lines tend to produce better pets.

These dogs are not recommended for apartment life. They are moderately active indoors and do best with acreage.

This energetic and tireless breed needs vigorous exercise. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk, jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. They are excellent jogging companions and love to swim and retrieve.

Grooming

The smooth coat of the Pointer is very easy to groom. Just brush regularly with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. A rub with a piece of toweling or chamois will leave the coat gleaming. Check the feet also, especially after the dog has been exercising or working. Dry the dog thoroughly after hunting to prevent chilling. Examine the ears regularly. This breed is an average shedder.

Health Issues

Prone to hip dysplasia, thyroid, dwarfism, Progressive retinal atrophy and skin cysts.

Life Expectancy

About 13-14 years.

Rescue Link: http://clubs.akc.org/NBC/Pointer_rescue.htm or
http://www.brewPointers.org/giving-up.php