Shorthaired Pointer: description and characteristics of the breed

History of the origin of the breed

“Short wool” - this is how the name is translated from German. Scientists consider the ancestors of shorthaired pointers to be representatives of ancient hunting breeds used in Spain, France, and Flanders for falconry and catching birds with nets.

Through the Mediterranean countries, shorthaired pointers came to Germany, where their excellent skills immediately attracted the attention of noble people, one of whose entertainments was hunting.

When the first double-barreled shotgun was invented, the need arose for a breed designed for fly-by-dog hunting. So shorthaired pointers became universal gun dogs. A significant reason for the development and breeding of the breed was the “Stud Book of the German Shorthaired Pointer,” which described the characteristics, evaluation rules, etc.

Dogs were brought to America in 1925 of the last century, and in 1930 the first standard and other information concerning them were approved.

During World War II, shorthaired pointer breeding practically ceased. Fortunately, interest in them did not fade away, and by 1950 the breed was completely restored.

Breed standard

Shorthaired Pointers are large and agile dogs, distinguished by endurance and strength. Features of the purity of the breed: proportionality of build, correct posture, smooth contour lines, dry head and well-set tail. Parameters for males: 25-32 kg, height at the withers - 62-66 cm. Females are much smaller, their weight varies from 21 to 27 kg, height - from 58 to 63 cm.

Description of the shorthaired pointer breed:

1. The head is elongated, proportional to the body. The skull is wide, the forehead is convex.
2. The muzzle is strong, the jaws are powerful, capable of capturing prey. Full dentition, teeth located close to each other.
3. Medium size eyes. The eyelids are dense and neat. The look is insightful. The preferred color for the iris is dark brown. A light shade reduces the shorthaired pointer's show rating.
4. The nose is slightly upturned or downturned, with a characteristic slight hump. The lobe is brown. The nostrils are mobile, open, wide.
5. The ears are set high and drooping.
6. The neck is long and muscular.
7. The body is square, proportional, fashionable. The stomach is always retracted, the sternum is deep, the back is straight.
8. The limbs are muscular, strong, strong. The front ones fit tightly to the body, the shoulder blades are set obliquely. The humerus are elongated. The hind limbs are parallel to each other. The thighs are muscular and wide. The paws are round, the toes are tightly clenched, the claws are hard.
9. The tail is medium in size, thick at the base, thin at the tip, docked by half or a third.
10. Due to its tight fit to the body, the skin is free of wrinkles and folds.

The fur of the shorthaired pointer breed can be compared to a brush - it is so rough to the touch. The fur on the head is softer. Most often you can find black shorthaired pointer dogs, brown (solid color) or spotted.

Shorthaired Pointer: description of the breed, photo

The slender and lean German Husky is found not only in Germany , it is very popular all over the world. In Russia, the breed became best known and popular at the end of the 20th century.

Weighing 27–32 kilograms, the Shorthaired Pointer reaches 62–66 centimeters at the withers. Bitches are slightly smaller than males and have a height of 58–64 centimeters. The dog has well-developed muscles , strong bones, graceful and easy movements. Breed standards include:

1. The head is proportional to the body, long and dry, in the shape of a blunt blade.
2. Slightly convex, moderately wide skull with slightly convex, moderately wide forehead.
3. Long muzzle with small dark brown eyes.
4. Ears are set high and of medium length, hanging smoothly down and having a rounded shape at the bottom.
5. Close-fitting, thick lips with brown edging.
6. Strong and robust jaws with a scissor bite and white, strong teeth.
7. A muscular neck harmoniously combined with the body with a strong and beautiful scruff line.
8. Quite a solid back with pronounced muscles.
9. Moderately tucked belly.
10. Placed under the body, dry, straight and muscular forelimbs.
11. Dry and muscular hind legs slightly set back on the back line of the ischial tuberosities.
12. Arched, round feet with tightly clenched toes and strong, pigmented nails.
13. High set, straight or slightly saber tail of medium length with a thick base. Two thirds or half of the length can be docked.

The shorthaired pointer has a short, stiff coat, which can be of the following colors:

• brown-piebald;
• black;
• sandy yellow;
• white, with brown spots on the head;
• brown;
• light brown speckled, and completely brown on the head.

Character of the shorthaired pointer

Among owners of the breed, the German pointer's indefatigable performance, athletic build, speed, strength and endurance are highly valued. very energetic pet, regardless of the weather and place of residence, behaves like a groovy animal . If there are no conditions for the release of his energy, he may begin to damage household items and furniture in the apartment. Therefore, it is necessary to walk with the shorthaired pointer, forcing him to actively run and play.

Kurzhaar

A good guard dog will never bite without a reason, but it loves to bark. This should be taken into account especially if the pet will be used for hunting. From a young age, he needs to be taught when to voice and when not to.

The German husky wants to be the leader in the pack, so you need to immediately show your leadership. Her upbringing can only be done by people with a strong character . Otherwise, you may end up with an uncontrollable pet.

The breed does not tolerate loneliness and loves communication. It is better not to leave small children alone with a shorthaired pointer, as a restless dog can simply knock a child off his feet.

Kurzhaar - hunter (photo)

Hardy and strong, German huskies have a good sense of smell, a keen sense of smell and are always ready to hunt. They can hunt any game and under any conditions. is especially good at oriented and comfortable in open spaces .
But the pet can easily adapt to any conditions and, depending on the type of prey, change its hunting style. The dog's long claws allow it to run quickly even in the mountains, and its webbed paws and water-repellent fur allow it to swim quickly and for a long time . This is why German huskies are often used when hunting waterfowl.

The hunting stance is in the blood of shorthaired pointers. When they see prey, they stare at it, raise their paw, lower their head and straighten their tail. In this position, the pet will wait for the owner’s command, who must communicate when it can hit the target. Already a two-month-old puppy stands in such a stance at the sight of a simple feather.

Health, typical diseases of the shorthaired pointer breed

There are not so many long-lived dogs, but the Shorthaired Pointer breed can be safely classified in this category. They live up to 15 years of age and practically do not suffer from diseases due to their strong immunity and good genetics. However, representatives of this breed still have a predisposition to the following pathologies:

• dysplasia of the hip and elbow joints;
• dermatitis;
• inflammation of the middle ear;
• hypothyroidism;
• epilepsy;
• damage to the skin caused by the inflammatory process;
• melanoma;
• eye diseases (cataracts, entropion, ectropion);
• flatulence;
• gastrointestinal disorders.

Shorthaired pointers are animals with rare endurance. In addition, they adapt to cool weather; heavy rain and wind do not interfere with their hunting. In order for your pet to continue to remain strong and healthy, routine vaccinations and antiparasitic treatment should be carried out in a timely manner.

Peculiarities

Due to its universal qualities, the shorthaired pointer is popular not only in its homeland in Germany. This breed of dog can be found in absolutely any country in the world. In Russia, shorthaired pointers began to gain popularity at the end of the 20th century.

These dogs were bred to be versatile hunters . They are able to hunt under any conditions and for any game. They feel better in open spaces than in the forest. But this breed has the ability to adapt. And not only to the conditions in which you have to hunt, but also to the prey. The shorthaired pointer can change its hunting style, depending on what kind of game it is hunting.

Dogs of this breed are perfectly adapted to hunting aquatic birds . Due to the fact that they have coarse wool that fits tightly to the body, it has excellent water-repellent properties. Webbed feet allow them to swim quickly and for a long time. And thanks to the fact that they have long claws, they are able to run on any surface, even in the mountains.

The shorthaired pointer is an animal with excellent posture

Among the qualities one can especially highlight strength and endurance . Qualities that contribute to hunting are a keen sense of smell and a good sense of smell. He is always ready to hunt and only waits for his owner’s command.

Shorthaired pointers have a hunting stance in their blood . In it, they lower their head low, raise their paw, straighten their tail and glare at the prey. In this position, the dog looks like an arrow, ready to hit the target when ordered. It is noteworthy that already at the age of 2 - 3 months, the shorthaired pointer puppy will take a stance if it finds a feather.

Even without taking a stance, Shorthaired Pointers have excellent posture . The contour lines are smooth, the head is small and proportional to the body. The muzzle is long, which is a plus for hunting dogs.

Much strength lies in the rear legs of the Shorthaired Pointer. Thanks to this, they can jump high and cover long distances.

Shorthaired pointers live on average 13 – 16 years .

Beautiful hunting dog

Character

The shorthaired pointer is a peace-loving and calm . Representatives of this breed do not exhibit attacks of aggression, although they can serve as a watchdog. To maintain mental balance, it is necessary to give them enough physical activity every day.

These dogs can live well in city apartments . They love the company of people, but are devoted to one owner. He never shows aggression towards children. He can become a wonderful friend for them. But you shouldn’t leave the shorthaired pointer alone with small children. This is an active dog and when playing can inadvertently knock children down.

Loneliness is painful to bear and they suffer greatly when separated from their owner. Therefore, before you get a dog of this breed, make sure that you will be able to give it a lot of attention . And also provide her with good physical activity.

In a hunting stance

Training

Raising and training shorthaired pointers should begin as early as possible. These dogs are quite intelligent and amenable to training . If you don’t start raising a puppy on time, it will be quite difficult to correct.

Training of the shorthaired pointer must be carried out following the basic rules :

• start training as early as possible and patiently achieve commands;
• pronounce commands briefly, clearly and calmly;
• if you have determined a ban for a dog, then never allow it to be violated;
• do not resort to deception to achieve a better result;
• work with the puppy systematically, without long breaks;
• reward with treats;
• lessons should not be too long so that the puppy does not get tired;
• do not resort to physical punishment.

After training in basic commands, the dog is taught the rules of behavior when hunting . The basic working qualities of Shorthaired Pointers are inherited, so a person is only required to reveal and strengthen them.

From an early age it is necessary to prohibit shorthaired pointers from hunting domestic animals . If you don't do this, problems may arise in the future.

Shorthaired Pointer dogs do not show aggression towards people . If the shorthaired pointer feels that a person is unfriendly, he will bypass him.

Black color with white spots

Character of the shorthaired pointer breed

Shorthaired pointers are, first of all, unique hunters endowed with excellent sense of smell. But they may well be devoted friends, enjoying the love of all family members. In addition, thanks to the innate protective instinct, representatives of the breed can become excellent watchmen and bodyguards.

Dogs are unusually smart and good-natured. They treat children friendly, are not capable of harming them, and are ready to take care of them.

Positive qualities, of course, include energy and positivity. Representatives of the shorthaired pointer breed are unusually noisy and active, they always care about everything, they like to be direct participants in the thick of things. By directing this energy in the right direction, you can raise the smartest dog who enjoys the learning process.

However, shorthaired pointers have one feature that should be taken into account when deciding whether to own this breed or not. However, this tendency is inherent in most hunting dogs - a tendency towards dominance.

Only a person with a strong, strong-willed character will be able to subjugate a stubborn person and maintain leadership. If you do not pay due attention to this point in upbringing, the shorthaired pointer will grow up willful and disobedient. Punishments and physical influence are unacceptable!

Provided proper training started at an early age, a shorthaired pointer puppy will turn out to be a charming dog, kind, loyal and reliable, striving to please its owner in everything.

Shorthaired Pointer dogs do not tolerate separation from their owner well and miss him. They require communication and attention to their person. Dog handlers do not advise leaving a pet for a long time, otherwise it may develop cowardice and aggression.

How to choose a shorthaired pointer puppy

Shorthaired Pointers are not very common in Russia, hence the high cost of puppies. The price depends on the class. So, a pet-class baby (without hereditary diseases, with documents) will cost 15-20 thousand rubles. Representatives of the breed class are more expensive - 30-40 thousand. They have some deviations from the standard that do not allow them to take part in exhibitions.

They can participate in breeding work. Finally, show-class shorthaired pointers are exhibitors and excellent producers, their parents are titled champions, so the cost will be even higher. The price for such babies starts from 65 thousand.

When choosing a shorthaired pointer puppy, you should be guided by general criteria - healthy appearance, curiosity, lack of aggression. However, this is, first of all, a hunting dog, so they pay attention to other nuances. If a dog is needed as a worker, then its mom and dad should be excellent hunters.

Keep in mind that bitches are easier to train, they are affectionate and loyal, but during the period of heat you can forget about hunting. Male Shorthaired Pointers are no worse trained, but they are too independent, and also have a tendency to run away in search of love affairs.

You can pick up a puppy from the kennel at the age of two months, but no later than six months - it is more difficult for older shorthaired pointers to adapt to a new home.

Character and habits

The character of the shorthaired pointer was determined by many years of selection of this breed as a hunting dog.

German Pointers are very active and agile and although they are generally quite friendly in nature, they require a lot of exercise and activity. Kurzhaar is an excellent athlete. These dogs gladly take part in a variety of active games, especially those related to copying “hunts,” for example, the well-known “fetch” command.

Shorthaired Pointers are very attached to the owner and his family; they are moderately aggressive towards strangers, although here everything depends more on the upbringing of a particular dog. They react calmly to children. They will get along well with cats if they are raised together and given appropriate training. Almost any bird and small animals (rabbits, guinea pigs, etc.) can easily be perceived as game with all the ensuing consequences, so it is better not to leave these animals alone with German cops.

How to care for a shorthaired pointer dog

The Shorthaired Pointer will fit perfectly into apartment living conditions, but he will also be comfortable in the fresh air, of course, if there is an enclosure and a warm booth.

If the shorthaired pointer puppy will live indoors, then it is necessary to allocate a separate place with bedding.

You should take walks with your shorthaired pointer in the morning and evening for at least 45 minutes. The ideal place is a field, lawn, park, where the dog can run and frolic for his own pleasure. Walks must be combined with exercise so that your four-legged pet does not lose shape.

The Shorthaired Pointer's short coat needs to be combed to remove dead hairs. This procedure is necessary to maintain the exterior and stimulate coat renewal.

During the molting period (three times a year), you need to comb your four-legged pet every day; at other times, once a week will be enough. But frequent bathing is contraindicated for shorthaired pointers. It is advisable to simply wipe the hard wool with a damp cloth.

A complete, balanced diet is of great importance for the proper physical development of the shorthaired pointer. It is advisable to use premium and super premium class feeds, in which vitamins and microelements are in optimal proportions.

If preference is given to “natural” food, then the main product in the diet should be lean meat mixed with cereals.

Other necessary hygienic procedures that the shorthaired pointer should be subjected to include wiping the eyes, cleaning the teeth and ears from wax and dirt.