Informational Traits About German Shorthair Pointers

History
The German Shorthair Pointer developed in the last century in Germany as an all around hunting and companion dog. The first known German Shorthairs were imported into the U.S. between 1890 and 1920. Last year more than 12,000 were officially registered with the American Kennel Club.

Physical Characteristics Of A Shorthair
Color: Color can range from solid liver, to ticking (small flecking with white background), to a bright white body with a liver head. There are also a few rare black & white ticked GSP’s. Most of these are German imports as the color is not yet accepted as a part of the AKC breed standard.

Size: Females can range from as small as 35 lbs. to as large as 70 lbs. Males may range from 45 lbs. to more than 90 lbs. — though such extremes are unusual.

Tail Docking: It is a rule to dock a shorthair to 40% of the original length a few days after birth. This is to prevent injury if the dog hunts or runs in underbrush later in life. Not all shorthairs have docked tails.

Character and Disposition
In general, GSP’s are highly energetic, athletic dogs which are known for their endurance. They need exercise and fenced yards, or a runner in the family. Older dogs can be less active and are ideal placements with families who want a calmer pet.

GSP’s are the definition of a velcro dog. They love being with their family They like to be near you at all times and may follow you from room to room. Of course, there are some rather independent GSPs that will “do their own thing” but still be very much a part of the family!

They like to self-hunt and, unless they have grown up with cats, can be cat sharp. Ideal placement is with a family who can provide the animal with attention. They have at times been described as Velcro because they can be quite clingy and are extremely affectionate by nature. GSP’s are devoted, often to the point of dependency. GSP’s from sheltered situations do not generally do well with avid hunters. They should be placed as house pets. Obedience training is strongly recommended.

Do not expect a dog that just lays around when you adopt a GSP. Many GSP’s are given up to shelters and rescue because they can have high levels of energy. Please be aware of this before adopting one.