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Records of Pointers exist from as far back as the 1600s, but like many breeds, their history is not clear. They were brought to the United States in the late 1800s when hunting was popular in the wide-open spaces. Many dog clubs originated as an excuse to have these dogs. One such club is the Westminster Kennel Club of New York City. The Pointer is the aristocrat of all sporting dogs.
These are warm, loving dogs capable of giving members of their family great affection. They bark and do not have the territorial sense for work of a guard dog or watchdog. Pointers are usually overflowing with nervous energy and ready to hunt at the drop of a leash. Only hunting activity, with the freedom to run, will resolve this issue, although a high degree of daily exercise can help. Confinement is the worst punishment for a breed of this temperament; it promotes barking, restlessness, and destructive chewing. Pointers will roam if allowed and can be stubborn. They are very sweet dogs, however, if raised as a house pet from puppyhood.
These are large, imposing dogs, not just for size but also for attitude. They have short, hard coats and are mostly white with black, orange, lemon, or liver patches, speckles, and flecks. Occasionally they are seen is solid black or solid liver. Males stand 25 to 28 inches high from the shoulder and weigh between 55 and 75 pounds. Females stand 23 to 26 inches high and weigh between 45 and 65 pounds.
Before starting any training session, you must exercise these powerful, high-energy dogs. You'll have to control their inclination to jump around and disrupt a training session before it starts. You will also have to cope with their stubborn nature and very strong will. This requires a truly firm attitude and use of the leash. The breed requires a great deal of authority on the part of the trainer – when training, you must keep the dog's attention fixed on you – and training must begin as early in the dog's life as possible. Of course, this applies only to those pointers that will be house pets or show dogs. When using the leash, be careful not to get it caught in the dog's long hanging ears.
Their short coats shed and require daily brushing with a natural bristle brush to stay ahead of falling hair. Little to no trimming or clipping is needed. An occasional bath may be necessary, depending on what the dog might get into.
Eye disorders such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) are a possibility, as are hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and a variety of skin conditions.
Sensation, champion pointer and emblem of the Westminster Kennel Club.
Ideal Owner Activity Level Very Active Schedule Work from home or willing to use a doggy daycare service Personal Style Easygoing and casual, Confident Training Style Firm, Confident Home Farm is ideal Children Older kids Experience Definitely preferred Quick Facts Size Large Grooming Easy to care for - brush weekly Exercise High - needs to walk every day, plus some running and play Training Early socialization is very important Temperment Friendly, Enthusiastic, Independent Challenges Needs a job Height 23 to 28 inches Weight 35 to 90 pounds Life 10 to 14 years Home Alone Fine with lots of exercise first With Kids Fine with older kids With Strangers Friendly Availability Available, so choose your breeder carefully
© Copyright 2025 LifeLearn Inc. Used and/or modified with permission under license. This content written by LifeLearn Animal Health (LifeLearn Inc.) is licensed to this practice for the personal use of our clients. Any copying, printing or further distribution is prohibited without the express written consent of LifeLearn. This content does not contain all available information for any referenced medications and has not been reviewed by the FDA Center for Veterinary Medicine, or Health Canada Veterinary Drugs Directorate. This content may help answer commonly asked questions, but is not a substitute for medical advice, or a proper consultation and/or clinical examination of your pet by a veterinarian. Please contact your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns about your pet’s health. Created on May 30, 2014.
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2801 Keele St. Unit #101 Downsview, ON M3M 2G6
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