Pointer

also known as English Pointer

Pros History


The Pointer, also known as the English Pointer, is a breed of dog that was developed in England for hunting game birds. They are known for their athletic build, keen sense of smell, and their ability to "point" out hidden game to hunters.

The breed's name, "Pointer," comes from their ability to "point" out game to hunters. This pointing behavior is an instinctual trait that was selectively bred into the Pointer over many generations, making it one of the most skilled and efficient hunting breeds.

The Pointer was developed in the 17th century by English sportsmen who were looking for a dog that could locate and point out game birds, such as quail and partridge, for hunters. The breed was created by crossing various hunting breeds, such as the Foxhound, Bloodhound, and Spanish Pointer. This combination of breeds resulted in a dog that was fast, athletic, and had a keen sense of smell, making it the perfect hunting companion.

The Pointer was first recognized as a distinct breed by the Kennel Club (UK) in 1873. The American Kennel Club (AKC) followed suit in 1884.

Breed Information


Type

Is Pointer a purebred?

Purebred

Purpose

What were Pointers originally used for?

Hunting, Pointing, Retrieving

Lifespan

How Long Do Pointers Live? What is average life expectancy for a Pointer? How long can Pointers live?

12-15 years

The average Pointer lifespan is somewhere between 12-15 years, provided they aren't beset by any exceptional health issues or injuries.

Pointer Height & Weight


How big is a full grown Pointer?

What is the average height of a Pointer? How big is a Purebred Pointer height? Pointer dog height:
Height
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 25-28 inches (63.5 - 71.1 cm) 10.5 inches (26.7 cm) 16.0 inches (40.6 cm) 23.0 inches (58.4 cm)
Female 23-26 inches (58.4 - 66 cm) 9.0 inches (22.9 cm) 15.0 inches (38.1 cm) 22.0 inches (55.9 cm)
What is the average weight of a Pointer? How much should Pointers weigh?
Weight
Average 6 months 12 months 18 months
Male 55-75 pounds (25 - 34 kg) 25.0 pounds (11 kg) 37.5 pounds (17 kg) 60.0 pounds (27 kg)
Female 45-65 pounds (20 - 29 kg) 17.5 pounds (8 kg) 27.5 pounds (12 kg) 50.0 pounds (23 kg)
Weight Gain Potential

Do Pointers get fat easily?

The Pointer is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Hypoallergenic

Are Pointers Hypoallergenic?

No

Unfortunately, the Pointer is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Temperament

What is a Pointer personality? What are Pointer dogs best known for?

Active
Amiable
Kind
Intelligent
Affectionate
Outright
Tempered
Loyal

Shedding Level

Are Pointers heavy shedders? How Much Does a Pointer Shed?

Pointer will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

Watchdog Ability

What is the watchdog ability of a Pointer dog?

Pointers are very good watchdogs. They are a vocal breed, and are wary of outsiders, so if someone approaches your home or aims to intrude, the Pointer is going to make sure everyone knows about it.

Breed History


Origin

Where do Pointers come from?

England

Ancestry

What are Pointers descended from?

Pointer, Hound, Newfoundland Dog, Setter, Bulldog

Date of Birth

When were Pointers first bred? How old is the Pointer breed?

1600s

Breed Group

What Breed Group is a Pointer?

Sporting (AKC:1884)
Gun Dogs (UKC)

Pointer Appearance


Eye Color Possibilites

What color are Pointer eyes?

Hazel
Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What color can Pointer nose be naturally?

Black
Brown
Isabella

Coat Color Possibilites

What color can Pointer coat be naturally?

Black
Brown
White
Isabella

Coat Length

How long is a Pointers coat?

Pointers are known for their short coat.

Coat Density

How Dense Is The Pointer Coat?

Coat Texture

What is the texture of the hair of a Pointer?

Straight

Litter Size

How many puppies can a Pointer have in a litter? How many puppies can a Pointer have in her first litter?

12-15 puppies per pregnancy

A Pointer can have a litter of 12-15 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

Pointers are known for their adaptability and versatility, they are capable of adapting well to a wide range of lifestyle changes and living environments. They are a highly adaptable breed, and make great companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Pointer Health Issues


Health Issues

Do Pointers have a lot of health problems?

The Pointer is a breed of dog that is known to have a higher incidence of health problems compared to some other breeds. These health issues may be frequent and can range from minor to serious. It is therefore essential that owners of DOG_NAMEs schedule regular check-ups with a veterinarian to ensure that any potential health issues are identified and treated as early as possible.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns to be aware of when owning a Pointer?

Hip Dysplasia

Minor Concerns

What are the less significant issues to keep in mind when it comes to Pointers?

Bloat
Congenital Heart Defect
Eye Conditions

Occasional Tests

What are the occasional tests recommended for Pointer breed?

Cardiac
Hip
Heart
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Pointer Needs and Activities


Energy

Do Pointers have a lot of energy?

Pointers are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.

Social Needs

Do Pointers need socialization? How social are Pointers?

Pointers have average social needs compared to other breeds. They are known to be less active and independent than other breeds, and they are content with spending time alone and with their human family.

Exercise Needed

How much exercise should Pointers get?

The Pointer needs a high level of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also make great companions for people who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy running, hiking or other outdoor activities. These breeds are not suitable for people with sedentary lifestyle or those who live in small apartments

Sleeping Need

How much sleep should a Pointer have? Do Pointers sleep a lot?

Pointers are active dogs that don't require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.

Drooling Tendency

Does a Pointer drool a lot?

The Pointer is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Tendency to Bark

How much does it bark?

Pointers tend to bark moderately, they bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or to communicate something. They may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.

Territorial

Do Pointers exhibit aggressive behavior to safeguard their home and territory? Do they possess a natural tendency to guard?

These dogs are known for their strong territorial instinct and protective nature. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.

Mouthiness

Are Pointers mouthy?

Roaming urge

What is the likelihood of a Pointer running away? Do they have a tendency to explore or wander frequently?

Prey Drive

Do Pointer dogs have a high prey drive?

Past times

What do Pointers enjoy doing? How do I keep my Pointer busy?

Walking, Play, Sniffing, Other dogs, Walk, Run, Running, Marking

Activity Level

What is the energy level of a Pointer? How much energy does a Pointer have?

High

Pointers are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How far should a Pointer walk each week? How many miles should a Pointer walk every week?

12 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Pointer, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

How much a Pointer should exercise a day? How much activity does a Pointer need?

45 minutes

In general most Pointers usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

What level of grooming should be provided for a Pointer?

The Pointer is a breed of dog that does not require extensive grooming.

Brushing Frequency

How often should you brush a Pointer?

Weekly

Pointer should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Brushing Tools

What are the most commonly used brushing tools for Pointers?

Pin Brush
Scissors
Nail Clipper

Costs


Cups

How many cups of food does a Pointer eat?

2.5 cups

For an average 55-75 pound (25 - 34 kg) Pointer feed 2.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

How Much Does a Pointer Cost Daily?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Pointer is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

Monthly Cost

How Much Does a Pointer Cost Per Month?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Pointer is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Pointer Characteristic


Intelligence

How intelligent is a Pointer?

Pointers has average obedience intelligence. But, they're also independent thinkers. The Pointer is a breed with an exceptionally high IQ and may get into mischief if left to their own devices.

Sensitivity Level

How sensitive is a Pointer dog?

Pointer dogs have average emotions and are adaptable to different situations, not requiring extra care like sensitive breeds do.

Affection Dependance

Are Pointer dogs affectionate?

Apartment Friendly

Do Pointer do well in apartments? Are Pointers good indoor dogs?

The Pointer is not an apartment-friendly dog breed. This dog breed is best in a home with a large, fenced-in yard. They are not suited for apartment life and can become destructive due to pent up energy from being in a small space.

Child Friendly

Are Pointers good with kids? Are Pointers good around children?

A Pointers typical characteristics indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans

Senior-friendly

Are Pointers good for elderly?

Cat Friendly

Are Pointers good with cats? How friendly Pointers are toward cats?

Pointers are not cat friendly dogs.

Dog Friendly

Do Pointer dogs get along with other dogs? Are Pointers OK with other dogs?

Pointers are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.

Pet friendly

How do Pointer dogs interact with other pets? Are they considered pet-friendly?

Stranger Friendly

Are Pointers friendly with strangers?

Pointers are below average friendly around strangers. Keen of eye and sharp of tongue, most Pointers are very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Pointers will be friendly and outgoing. But many others have the standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

Playfulness

Do Pointers like to play? Are Pointers playful?

Pointers are known to be highly playful dog. So if you're not up for all that, think about adopting a slightly older Pointer for a mellower experience.

Trainability

Are Pointer easily trained?

The Pointer is a breed of dog that is known for being very easy to train. They are highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them a great choice for both experienced and novice dog owners.

Pros Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Minimal to no shedding
    Pointer shedding is none to minimal and easy to maintain.
  • Intelligence
    Pointers are highly intelligent and easy to train
  • Energy
    They have a lot of energy and enjoy being active, making them good for hunting or sports
  • Friendliness
    They are friendly and outgoing, making them a good option for those looking for a sociable dog

Cons

  • Not cat-friendly
    Pointers are not recommended for households with cats.
  • Not suitable for office environment
    Pointers may not thrive in an office setting
  • Not Hypoallergenic
    People with allergies should be cautious when considering a Pointer, as they may cause allergic reactions.
  • Not Apartment Friendly
    Pointer dogs may not be the best choice for apartment dwellers.