German Shorthaired Pointer
A versatile hunter and all-purpose gun dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer possesses keen scenting power and high intelligence. The breed is proficient with many different types of game and sport, including trailing, retrieving, and pointing pheasant, quail, grouse, waterfowl, raccoons, possum, and even deer. A medium-sized breed, he has an aristocratic bearing and can be solid liver or liver and white in color.
The origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer is not clear, but the source of the breed seems to have been the German Bird Dog, related to the old Spanish Pointer, and various crossings with local German scent hounds and track and trail dogs. When the Germans introduced the English Pointers to lend elegance to the German Shorthaired Pointer prototype, the result was a utility dog that combined sporting virtue with clean lines, good looks and sound temperament.
Breed Profile
The German Shorthaired Pointer thrives as part of an active family. He is an even-tempered, intelligent and loyal family watchdog that has enthusiasm for its work. An athlete, he can adapt to his living situation, but requires consistent exercise. The GSP’s short coat sheds, but grooming is minimal.
Grooming
German Shorthaired Pointers are a short flat coated breed that sheds throughout the year, even in the winter time. Grooming is suggested for 4 – 8-week intervals to clean ears, clip nails, check anal glands and insure the coat and skin are in healthy condition.
Eyes
Eyes should be alert and bright. Use Opti-Soothe Eye Wash during the bath to flush any foreign matter.
Ears
Monthly ear cleaning with Ear Care is advised to be sure no ear problems that might need vet attention arise. Only clean as far as you can see, never further.
Bathing
German Shorthaired Pointer’s require 2 baths when you bathe them. If your German Shorthaired Pointer has allergies or sensitive skin we would suggest a Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo and follow it with a medicated shampoo depending on your dog’s needs. If your German Shorthaired Pointer has normal skin then the second bath you would want to pick one of our wonderful fragrant shampoos and conditioners. Follow the bath with a conditioner or Luxury Remoisturizer to keep the coat in great shape.
Paws
Paw Balm should be used weekly to keep paw pads soft and pliable. This makes the pads less likely to dry and crack.
Coat Care
Use Aloe Hydrating Spray between baths to control flaking and dandruff, especially in dry conditions
Show Dog Tips
Silky Show Shampoo and Silky Show Conditioner will add silk proteins and shine to the coat as well as the Honey and Oat Conditioner. High Sheen Finishing Spray right before entering the show ring will add the little extra shine without any oily residue.
Common Problems
German Shorthaired Pointers are very active dogs that enjoy the outdoors, so they are prone to minor scratches and wounds. Keep 3 in 1 Healing Cream on hand for those incidences.
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