Pointer Dog Breed Profile

by Luke Blaise

AKC Group: Sporting Group

The Pointer dog originated from England in the 17th century. It is a powerful hunting dog holding with stamina. While it can make a great family dog, it needs a lot of exercise and should not be confined.

History

The Pointer dog first came from England in the year 1650 where they were bred to hunt game. Prior to hunting with firearms, the Pointers were trained to point and locate hares along with Greyhounds. The Pointer's family tree is not clear, but there's no doubt that it contains Bloodhound, foxhound and Greyhound crosses with several types of "setting spaniel."

Physical Features

The Coat is dense, short and smooth with sheen. His shade is black, lemon, liver and orange; either in conjunction with white or solid colored. In the darker shades, the nose must be brown or black; in the lighter colors it could be flesh-colored or lighter.

Balance and also over-all balance are more essential in the Pointer than dimension. A balanced, smooth dog shall be more desired than the usual dog with firmly different faults and good points. The height varies from 25 to 28 inches and the weight varies 55 to 75 pounds.

The dog is bred mostly for game afield; he must unmistakably act and look the part. This perfect specimen provides the immediate effect of agile grace and compact power; the head respectable, proudly bared; the expression alert and intelligent.

Personality

The Pointer dog's alert nature and good temperament make him a good-natured friend both in the home and in the field. He must be responsible and should certainly not show timidity to dog or man. Here's a dog whose each and every activity shows him being a hard-driving hunting, wide-awake dog holding strength, bravery, and the need for action.

Common Health Problems

The Pointer is a healthy dog. Possible issues include eye problems, epilepsy, and joint disorders. Allergies are also somewhat typical.

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