About the Breed:

The GSP is a breed that originated in Germany. They are a versatile hunting companion that arose in the 19th century and was standardized in 1879. They were first added to the AKC studbook in March 1930 and fully recognized in 1935. Hunters intentionally breed these dogs to do it all, point, flush, retrieve on land and water and go for miles.

Coat:

Color and Pattern:

The GSP comes in two colors, liver and black. Any other color is not correct according to the AKC breed standard.

They come in many patterns including, solid, ticked, roan, patched, patched and roan or any combinations of those. No other patterns are accepted by the AKC.

Size:

The GSP is a medium-size dog and the AKC standard calls for the following:

Males:

  • 23-25 inches from ground to withers (top of the shoulders)
  • 55-70lbs

Females:

  • 21-23 inches from ground to withers
  • 45-60lbs

Temperament:

They are friendly, intelligent, willing to please and have a great work ethic, willing to do anything asked of them. They are good with other dogs, adults, children and strangers. They can do well with small animals in the house as long as they have proper training. They can usually tell the difference between pets and wild game pretty easily.

Health Testing:

According to the parent club and OFA the GSP has five required tests and two optional ones.

Required:

  • Hip
  • Elbows
  • Basic Cardiac
  • Annual Eye Exam
  • Cone Degneration

Optional but Recommended:

  • Autoimmune Thyroiditis
  • Von Willebrand’s Disease

My Thoughts on the Breed:

These are dogs that will do anything that you ask them too and are one of a kind. If you are looking for adventuring, hiking, running, hunting, sports or anything of that nature then you are in the right place. This is not a breed that you can just take for a walk around the block. I have to take my GSPs out for a hike or other intense activity at least three times a week for them to be fulfilled. While GSPs are friendly, that does not always mean that they know where their bodies are. With their high energy and lack of personal body awareness they could easily knock over small children or other objects.

I would not recommend them for first time dog owners as if not properly trained or exercised they can do some damage to the house. Living with a GSP is a lifestyle and you must understand that they are an extremely high drive dog that needs mental and physical stimulation.

Is this breed right for you?

The German Shorthaired pointer would be the right dog for you if you:

  • Like to be outside
  • Like to hike, run or bike
  • Like to go swimming
  • Want a dog that is easy to wipe clean
  • Want a dog for sports
  • Looking for a friendly pet around other dogs and people
  • Want to train

The more you say yes here the more likely that this breed might be right for you.

If you are looking for a dog that:

  • Is easy
  • Likes to stay home
  • Wants to go on short walks around the neighborhood
  • You do not want to train

Resources :

The GSPCA is the parents club of the GPS and has a lot of amazing resources on the breed.