The German Shorthaired Pointer has origins that go back to the Spanish Pointer, a bird-dog that would point, retrieve, trail, and be a family companion. Seventeenth-century fishermen developed the breed in Germany. They made it a reality by introducing Bloodhound, Foxhound, and English Pointer blood, which produced the dog we have today. We often abbreviate German Shorthaired Pointer to GSP. They’re also known as Deutscher kurzhaariger and Vorstehhund.
They’re a noble, steady dog, displaying power, endurance, and speed; the GSP is alert and active with a supple outline. This dog is a dual-purpose pointer/retriever; the breed has a keen nose and perseverance in searching and initiative in game finding. The GSP is excellent in the field and a keen worker; they’re loyal and obedient. The coat comes in a combination of liver, white and black, with spotting and marking, is short, flat, and bristly to touch.
German Shorthaired Pointer Breed Facts
| Energy level |  | Watchdog ability | |
| Exercise requirements | | Protection ability |  |
| Playfulness |  | Grooming requirements |  |
| Affection level | | Cold tolerance | |
| Friendliness toward dogs | | Heat tolerance | |
| Friendliness toward other pets |  | Friendliness toward strangers | |
| Ease of training | |
TEMPERAMENT: This dog is smart and willing to please breed. It is also a versatile hunting dog used for trailing, pointing, and retrieving on land and water. These dogs are responsive, with an uncanny ability to learn quickly. However, puppies may have some trouble staying focused. Young dogs will require obedience training, encouraging self-control. Shorthaired Pointers may seem to be physically mature by 6 months but do not reach mental and emotional maturity until age two. This breed is also a remarkable watchdog.
ACTIVITY LEVEL: Intense. The German Shorthaired Pointer is an excellent and versatile hunting dog with immense mental and physical energy that needs channeling. These dogs demand a great deal of exercise and interaction with their owners. They require at least 30 minutes of running two times daily. They’ll also enjoy swimming, jogging, and retrieving games.
GROOMING: Shorthaired Pointers need a brushing weekly using a grooming glove or rubber horse brush.
LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10–12 years
SIZE: German Shorthaired Pointer males are—23–25 inches (63.5 cm), 55–70 pounds (31.75 kg); females—21–23 inches (58.42 cm), 45–60 pounds (27.22 kg)
GROUP: They recognize The German Shorthaired Pointer as a member of the AKC Sporting Group and the UK Gundog Group
COAT: This dog has a water-repellent coat that is short, hard, thick, and close-fitting
COLOR: This dogs color is a solid liver, liver, and white ticked, patched, or roan, which is a fine mixture of white and colored hairs.
Before purchasing a German Shorthaired Pointer, ask about the puppy’s parents’ health clearances. Also, new owners need to know about their activities and hunting dog temperament.
