English Pointer

  • SIZE: 6
  • GROOMING:: 7
  • EXERCISE NEEDS: 9
  • GOOD WITH DOGS: 9
  • WATCHDOG: 7
  • BREED: English Pointer
  • COLOR(S):Orange, liver, black, lemon. Solid color or combination of these on white.

DESCRIPTION

 The Pointer is bred primarily for sport and is a true wide-range hunter. They give the impression of compact power and agile grace. Their movement should show them to be a wide-awake, hard-driving hunting dog possessing stamina, courage and the desire to go. English Pointers are lean, hardy dogs that live for the hunt. They are large, muscular and square-shaped. The muzzle is long and they have drop triangular ears. They retain an easy-to-care-for coat that is glossy, short and smooth. The Pointer\'s energy and devotion makes them superior as gundogs. They are a good show dog, friendly and obedient. The English Pointer is giving and kind, but rather serious in personality. They are good with children and other dogs, but does much better in a country setting than in the city. English Pointers do no take to water easily, and are quite susceptible to cold conditions. He does, however, do better than most breeds in the heat. He has great endurance and strength, able and eager to hunt for anything. Although they love hunting, they are not for retrieving. The name "Pointer" literally comes from the fact that they do not retrieve when they see game, they stop in their tracks and "point". 

TEMPERAMENT

 Pointers are responsive, lively, and independent. They are very energetic and are excited to go on a hunt. They get along with children well, and also with other pets. They are very serious dogs, with hunting as the top priority. They are graceful and elegant, friendly and moderately cooperative. English Pointers tend to be very sensitive, and are very task oriented. They are hard-working, even tempered, and enthusiastic. 

GROOMING

 Minimal grooming of the Pointer should consist of a quick rub with a rough cloth a few times a week. 

HEALTH

 Elbow and hip dysplasia, PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy), and epilepsy. Other health concerns include deafness. 

EXERCISE

 Rigorous exercise is mandatory as confinement of Pointers may result in hyperactivity. They need quite a lot of exercise, using up their energy that is stored for hunting. They have great endurance, and will probably tire out their owner before themselves. 

TRAINING

 Obedience training is strongly recommended. Pointers can make good house pets if handled and trained as a small puppy.