Pointer

• ExerciseVery high

  Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• GroomingWash & go

  The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–15 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Epilepsy · Cherry eye

The Pointer is a friendly, even-tempered gundog bred purely to hunt, with a boundless love of running and an instinct to point game that appears in puppies barely out of the whelping box. At home it is affectionate, sociable and generally good with children and other dogs, forming warm bonds with its family. It is not a natural guard dog — its temperament is too easygoing and welcoming for that. This is a high-energy, athletic breed that absolutely needs vigorous daily exercise: long runs, off-leash galloping in safe areas, and active play are essential. Without enough outlet, a Pointer becomes restless, bored and hard to live with. They are intelligent but can be independent and easily distracted by scent, so training should be patient, positive and started early, with reliable recall a priority. The short, sleek coat is wonderfully low-maintenance, needing only occasional brushing and wiping. The breed is generally healthy and athletic, with hip dysplasia, epilepsy, eye conditions such as cherry eye, and skin allergies among the concerns. Given plenty of running and companionship, the Pointer is a joyful, gentle and elegant family dog.

• How much exercise does a Pointer need?

  Very high. Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• How much grooming does a Pointer need?

  Wash & go. The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Is a Pointer suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Pointer a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Pointer live?

  12–15 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Pointer?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Epilepsy, Cherry eye. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

Be the first to join this community!