Note: The breed registries indicated above are the most recognized all-breed registries. The breed may also be recognized by other registries not indicated here. For further details about dog registries, please see the document: Dog Breed Registries in North America.
* — The Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) is the World Canine Organisation, which includes members (one member per country) that each issue their own pedigrees and train their own judges. The FCI recognizes 332 breeds, with each being the "property" of a specific country. The FCI is not a breed registry nor does it issue pedigrees.
Males — 55 to 75 lbs (25-34 kg) Females — About 10 lbs (4.5 kg) less
Known as the Deutsch Kurzhaar in his native Germany, the German Shorthaired Pointer was first introduced to North America in the mid-1920s. Today, he has established himself as a popular sporting dog and family companion.
As a hunting dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer is extremely versatile. Originally developed to be an all-in-one hunting companion, he points, retrieves, tracks and can even be taught to toll. Although mainly used for feathered game, he is equally able to hunt furred game.
In addition to his hunting skills, the GSP excels in the conformation ring, obedience trials, agility, flyball as well as many other dog sports and activities and is also seen working as a Search and Rescue Dog.
The German Shorthaired Pointer is friendly, eager to please, intelligent, and has a stable temperament. He has an abundance of energy and needs lots of exercise but can adapt well to family life in a suburban or country setting. The breed is sturdy, animated, and has a great deal of endurance.
Physically, the GSP gives an appearance of aristocracy, agile, well-balanced and powerful. As the name suggests, he has a short coat that is thick and feels tough to the touch. His coat may be solid liver, liver and white spotted, liver and white ticked, or liver roan. They can also be found in the same range in black as opposed to liver but black is not considered an acceptable colour in Canada and is a disqualification in the U.S. It is, however, acceptable in most other countries.
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If you are considering the adoption of a German Short Haired Pointer puppy, or any breed, it is very important to be selective in choosing a responsible and reputable breeder. Ensure that the prospective puppy's parents have all health clearances. Breeding of any dog should not be done until after they have been proven to be free of evidence of significant hereditary diseases. (For more information on selecting a breeder, see the articles on the main Breed Listing and Breeders page.)
Health Resources:
Health and Nutrition — Canada's Guide to Dogs growing section on several health and nutrition related issues.
AKC GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER VIDEO
20 Min. Video Edition, Published by the AKC
Discussion of the breed standard: good structure and movement, acceptable colors, correct head, size. Developed for breeders, exhibitors and judges.
— Available from Dogwise.com
Grooming — This growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs includes grooming information, tips and techniques as well as listings of Groomers from across Canada.
Training — For information on training your German Short Haired Pointer, see this growing section of Canada's Guide to Dogs for tips, articles, as well as listings of training centres across Canada.
The following two articles originally appeared in Gun Dog Magazine as a two-part series, part 1 in March/April 1989 and part 2 in the May/June 1989 issue.
Clubs, Sports and Activities — Information on the many dog sports and activities you can get involved in with your German Shorthaired Pointer as well as a list of non-breed specific clubs from across Canada.
Working Dogs — Information and organization listings of working dogs, including Guide Dogs, Therapy Dogs, Police Dogs, Search and Rescue Dogs, and much more.
GERMAN SHORTHAIRED POINTER ANNUAL
by Hoflin
For breeders, competitors, and serious enthusiasts who enjoy pouring over photos and up-to-date articles relating to breeding, health, genetics, and training.
— Available from Dogwise.com
Select from the following links to view German Short Haired Pointer Breeder listings; Breed Clubs; Shows and Events; Rescue Organizations; as well as Books and Merchandise specific to the GSP breed:
Ch. Ersehnen Blythe Spirit "Spirit"
