English Pointers

Appearance:

Body: Muscular, sturdy, and square with a deep, broad chest, level backline, well-sprung ribs, sloping shoulders, and long croup.

Coat: Short, dense, hard, and smooth with sheen.

Color: Solid colors of liver (brown), lemon, black, orange; with or without white markings.

Ears: High set, slightly pointed at the tips, hung loosely and close to the head.

Eyes: Round, hazel or brown.

Feet: Oval, and well-padded with tight, arched toes.

Head: Moderately wide, flat skull; somewhat concave between the eyes, slightly arched muzzle, large, elevated nose with wide nostrils, and a pronounced stop.

Legs: Forelegs are straight and sturdy. Hindquarters are lean and muscular with well-turned stifles.

Neck: Long, muscular and slightly arched.

Size:
Weight: 45 - 75 pounds
Height: 23 - 28 inches

Tail: Moderately long and straight, thick at the base tapering to the tip, and carried outward and level with the topline.

Behavior

Recommended for experienced dog handlers
Good with children
Good with other animals
Not suited for urban living
Fast learner, hard worker, devoted companion

The Pointer is a gentle dog with a sensitive, eager-to-please personality. He is all business focusing intently on anything he does. He is athletic, supple and even-tempered, highly energetic and tireless, good with children, and aloof with strangers. Being a true hunting dog he is best suited for an athletic and active owner willing to take him for long daily runs or vigorous hikes in the mountains and woods.

He is an admirable hunter and field dog with both stamina and courage. Though primarily a bird dog today, before guns were available to the hunters, he was used to hunt hare with Greyhounds. His approach to hunting was unusual; once he tracked and sighted the hare he would stand and point until the greyhounds were let loose to flush, chase, and seize the hare.

AKC Standard says, "The Pointer's even temperament and alert good sense make him a congenial companion both in the field and in the home."

With his exceptional speed and hunting instincts early obedience training is important. Learning early on to obey your commands will prevent him from unsuspectingly running into traffic or other dangerous situations in search of his prey. He's a sensitive breed and will respond best to a positive rewarding approach with lots of praise, gentle correction, and treats for encouragement.

Breed Type

AKC Group: Sporting Group

A gundog primarily used for bird hunting today but once used to hunt hare with Greyhounds.

He will willingly go to water to retrieve his prey, if necessary, but is most comfortable remaining on land.

Care and Grooming

Exercise: He is an exceptionally active dog in need of vigorous daily exercise.

Grooming: Brush his easily maintained coat one to two times weekly. Dry thoroughly with a towel after hunting or hiking trips to prevent chills.

Health

Life Expectancy: 12 - 13 Years

Possible Problems:
Gout
Hip Dysplasia
Low Thyroid
Seizures
Spinal problems

Recommended Certificates:
CERF - for the eyes
OFA - for the hips

Country of Origin

Great Britain - 1600s