Old Danish Pointer
Photo: Pleple2000, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Old Danish Pointer

Also known as Gammel Dansk Hønsehund, Old Danish Bird Dog, Old Danish Chicken Dog

Pointer Large Denmark

A sturdy white-and-brown Danish pointing dog, calm indoors and steady in the field, known for working slowly and close to its handler.

Height
50–60 cm
Weight
26–35 kg
Life expectancy
12–14 years
Origin
Denmark
Coat
Short and dense
FCI
Group 7, standard no. 281
  • Calm
  • Steady
  • Courageous
  • Friendly
  • Determined

At a glance

Overview

The Old Danish Pointer is a strongly built, medium-sized pointing dog, white with brown markings. Males and females differ noticeably, with females lighter and more spirited.

It is a friendly family dog that is quiet indoors and active outdoors, as long as it gets enough exercise.

History

The breed goes back to the 17th century and descends from the Spanish Pointer. The Danish name means Old Danish fowl dog and refers to its skill at pointing game birds of the pheasant family, not to chickens.

In April 2026 it was added to the American Kennel Club Foundation Stock Service.

Appearance

Powerful and substantial. Males stand about 54 to 60 cm and weigh 30 to 35 kg, while females are 50 to 56 cm and 26 to 31 kg. The coat is white with brown markings.

Temperament

Quiet, stable and determined, with courage. In the field it works rather slowly, stays in contact with the hunter and points without disturbing the ground. At home it is friendly and calm.

Care and exercise

It needs regular, generous exercise and is not suited to flats or small yards. With enough activity it settles quietly in the house.

The short coat is easy to care for with occasional brushing.

More pointer breeds