Pointer

Standard Pointer Characteristics

About the Pointer

The Pointer, also known as the English Pointer, was created in Great Britain to help the hunters out.

Today, the Pointer is mainly used as a companion dog but is also a gun dog.

Pointers are very active dogs with a very strong prey drive. They thrive on the chase and love to be outdoors. They are mildly active inside the home but are amenable to any situation. They are very affectionate and love to be with their family. They are very kind and gentle with children and other animals but they must be taught from an early age to respect those animals in the home. They are intelligent, quick learners, and love to please. Because of their active nature, training should begin early. Though they can be vocal these dogs do not make good guard dogs.

The skull of the pointer is flat looking with a nose that is slightly higher than the muzzle at the tip. They have a square jaw line, almond shaped dark eyes and a dark colored nose. Though slender in appearance, this dog is very muscular with well-defined shoulder and thigh muscles. Their tail tapers to a point and is usually carried in a slight slope. Their feet are oval in appearance and have well arched toes. Their short, dense coat can come in either solid or multi-colored combinations of liver, lemon, black or orange.

This breed is prone to dysplasia and skin disorders.

Pointers thrive in a house with a large yard. They love to run and have a boundless amount of energy; therefore, they need a good deal of daily exercise. If not given enough exercise, this breed may become bored and destructive.