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Sporting breeds: German Shorthaired Pointer
Origin
 The German Shorthaired Pointer was developed in the early to mid-1800s. He's probably descended from the Spanish Pointer with crossing from the English Foxhound. As with almost all scent dogs of that period, the Schweisshunde probably contributed heavily to the gene pool. The Shorthair was developed as an all-purpose dog. He's a staunch pointing bird dog, a night trailer, proven duck dog, land and water retriever, watchdog, and companion. He was also used to trail and handle deer. As obedience was of prime importance, the early dogs were selectively bred for controlability. Later the Germans added the English Pointer to the mix for the ability of the "high nose," (elegance in working style), followed by the necessity of removing unwanted English Pointer characteristics of water aversion and lack of aggressiveness towards predators. The German studbook, Klub Kurzhaar, was established in the 1870s.
The Shorthair was first admitted to the AKC stud book in 1930. The first specialty show for German Shorthaired Pointers was held by the German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America in March of 1941, in Chicago at the International Kennel Club. The first licensed field trial was held in Anoka, Minnesota, in May 1944.
General description
Height: 21-25 inches
Weight: 45-70 pounds
Color: The color can be solid liver or any combination of liver and white, such as liver and white ticked, liver spotted and white ticked or liver roan. Any colors of black, red, orange, lemon, or tan, or solid white dogs are disqualifications.
Grooming requirements
A German Shorthaired Pointer is exceptionally easy to brush and bathe. A curry brush should be run over the dog's entire body every week. Ears and nails should be tended to regularly.
Health considerations
The German Shorthaired Pointer is one of many breeds that may have autoimmune problems. He can have several eye problems, including cataracts and entropian eyelids (eyelids rolling in). The parents should be OFA certified free of hip dysplasia. He has a tendency to OCD (arthritis).
Breed characteristics and personality
The Shorthair is very active and needs lots of room and exercise. He's not a good apartment dog. He's suited for living in the house or outside. He makes a good watchdog or guard dog. He's obedient and intelligent. This is an easy care breed for grooming.
The Shorthair is exuberant but trainable. He's an intelligent, cheerful, obedient dog, who's good with children. The dog's general appearance is that of keen enthusiasm without nervousness.
The Shorthair makes a good companion. He needs lots of room to exercise and requires a fenced yard. He doubles well as the family watchdog and is diligent in his duties.
Uses
The Shorthair is used for all types of hunting, pointing, and following game. He's good in the mountains, woods, marshes, and in all climates. He also makes an outstanding watchdog or guard dog.
Web links
AKC German Shorthaired Pointer page
The German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America
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