Overview
The German Shorthaired Pointer, or Deutsch Kurzhaar, is a medium-sized all-purpose hunting dog of continental Braque type. It works in all weather and terrain and also makes a loyal companion.
It is tough, healthy and full of stamina. It does best with active owners who enjoy hunting, dog sports or long days outdoors.
History
Continental pointing breeds trace back to the extinct Old Spanish Pointer. In the nineteenth century many Burgos-type pointers and English bird dogs were brought to German lands, producing a mixed population simply called bird dogs or hunting dogs.
Standards for the Kurzhaar were set in 1879 and the first stud book appeared in 1897. The FCI accepted the breed in 1954 and the American Kennel Club recognised it in 1930. Registration in Germany requires passing a working trial.
Appearance
A medium-sized, well-balanced dog; males stand about 62 to 66 cm at the withers and females a few centimetres less. The coat is short, dense and rough to the touch.
The head has a convex profile and a long, strong muzzle suited to carrying game, with brown eyes and high-set, rounded ears that hang close to the head. The tail is carried roughly level and is docked in some working dogs where permitted.
Temperament
This is an eager, intelligent and affectionate dog that thrives on work and human company. It is versatile and keen to please, and does very well in training when it has plenty to do.
Without enough exercise and mental stimulation it can become restless and destructive. It has a strong hunting instinct, so small pets and off-lead walks need care.
Care and exercise
German Shorthaired Pointers need a great deal of daily exercise, ideally running, swimming, scent work or field activity as well as walks. They excel at agility, obedience, dock diving and detection work.
The short coat needs only weekly brushing. Check ears and nails regularly, and give early socialisation and consistent training.
Health
A tough breed, with a UK study finding a median lifespan of around 13 years. Reported conditions include cataract, cranial cruciate ligament rupture, progressive retinal atrophy, von Willebrand's disease, hereditary lupoid dermatosis and some neurological disorders such as GM2 gangliosidosis.
