German Longhaired Pointer
Quick Summary
Versatile hunting companion with excellent trainability and family-friendly nature. Ideal for active owners with outdoor space. Requires significant exercise and engagement.
Contents
Weight Range
55-80 lbs
♂ Male: 55-80 lbs
♀ Female: 55-80 lbs
Height Range
56-71 inches
♂ Male: 22-28"
♀ Female: 22-28"
Life Expectancy
12-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #85
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Developed in Germany during the 1800s as a versatile hunting companion, specializing in both pointing and retrieving game in varied terrain and water conditions
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 22"-28" |
| Female Height | 22"-28" |
| Male Weight | 55-80 lbs |
| Female Weight | 55-80 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 2/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $1,200-2,500 for purebred puppy. Monthly expenses average $150-200 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary costs range $500-1,000 plus emergency fund.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Displays calm and steady temperament with high intelligence and strong hunting instincts. Shows excellent focus during work while maintaining a gentle family disposition. Adapts well to various social situations.
Social Needs
Highly social breed requiring substantial daily interaction with family. Generally good with other dogs and enjoys companionship. Can handle moderate alone time if properly exercised.
Breed Overview
German Longhaired Pointers embody versatility with their athletic build and distinctive medium-length coat. Their balanced proportions combine strength with elegance, featuring a noble head, expressive eyes, and well-feathered tail. These dogs display a harmonious blend of power and grace in their movement, with their coat typically showing liver-colored patches on a white background.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Excellent hunting companion
- ✓ Highly trainable
- ✓ Good family dog
- ✓ Versatile worker
Cons
- ✗ High exercise needs
- ✗ Regular grooming required
- ✗ Not suited for apartment living
- ✗ Strong hunting instincts
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Versatile, Calm, Family-Oriented |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Eager to Please |
| Grooming Needs | Occasional Bath/Brush |
| Shedding |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 2-3 hours of daily exercise including hunting training, swimming, and vigorous runs. High-intensity activities should be combined with mental stimulation through tracking and retrieving exercises.
Diet & Nutrition
Requires 3-4 cups of high-quality dry food daily, divided into two meals. Active hunting dogs may need increased portions. Special attention to preventing bloat through proper feeding schedule.
Feed 3-4 cups premium dry food daily, split into two meals. Adjust portions based on activity level and age. Include protein-rich foods for active hunting dogs. Monitor weight to prevent obesity.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with large fenced yards. Thrives in rural or suburban settings with ample space for exercise. Adapts well to various climates but needs indoor access.
Requires minimum half-acre fenced yard. Thrives in rural or suburban settings with room to run. Adaptable to various homes provided sufficient exercise space is available.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
German hunters developed these versatile gun dogs in the 1800s, creating a breed capable of both pointing and retrieving in various terrains. Their development focused on producing a dog with exceptional hunting abilities and family compatibility.
Historical Purpose
Developed in Germany during the 1800s as a versatile hunting companion, specializing in both pointing and retrieving game in varied terrain and water conditions.
Fun Fact
These dogs can seamlessly switch between pointing and retrieving duties, a rare trait among hunting breeds.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Needs regular brushing to maintain coat. Requires extensive exercise and mental stimulation. Watch for signs of hip problems and bloat.