The German shorthaired Pointer is recognized to be one of the best-hunting dogs you can have. It’s a perfect bird dog whose soft mouth keeps the prey intact as it retrieves the bird for its owner. The GSP is loyal and obedient and loves to be around humans, making it a wonderful pet.
There are some interesting facts about German Shorthaired Pointers according to gspowners.com, none of which are wrong but are interesting and make this dog a fantastic companion.
Strap in, and let’s get started.
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What are German Shorthaired Pointers known for?
Loyalty and companionship, and did I mention running? GSPs have endless amounts of energy and can run for what seems like an eternity when they need exercising.
The GSP is a perfect all-around hunting dog, and it has a soft mouth to retrieve the quarry without damaging it. They can hunt game birds, deer, and rabbits and chase anything that moves fast.
The GSP has strong legs and is considered a powerful dog. Nevertheless, they make great pets and love to be around kids. They have a kind and protective personality.
1. German Shorthaired Pointers
As the name suggests, they were developed in Germany in the 1900s. They are thought to be a breed of collective bird dogs from all around Europe.
These breeds were either specialized pointers, trackers, or retrievers; GSPs have all of these inherent traits, making them extremely popular hunting dogs.
The dog became a must-have animal for landowners and the aristocracy due to its abilities and handsome lines.
2. First introduced to America.
Records indicate the first German Shorthaired Pointer was imported to America in 1925 By Dr. Charles Thronton from Montana.
The dog was bred, and after 5 years, the kennel club recognized the GSP.
3. GSP physique
Recognized as medium-sized dogs, the dogs weigh in at 55- 70 lbs, and the females weigh in at slightly less at 45-60 lbs.
The females are typically 21 inches tall, and the males 25 inches, give or take an inch either way.
The coat is thick and flat with a water-resistant undercoat that makes these dogs perfect for duck hunting.
The color is generally liver orange white or black as white with a roan coat and ticking through the short hairs to make the GSP a very recognizable dog. The color of the muzzle will match their coat color. There are black GSPs, but they are rare.
Did you know GSPs have webbed feet? That is why they are excellent swimmers.
4.The multipurpose GSP
The GSP has an outstanding reputation for being versatile. The dog was bred to be everything a hunter could want in a dog, from hunting squirrels and possums to rabbits, deer, wild boar, and ducks, where the dog would be required to swim across an expanse of water to retrieve the quarry.
GSPs are a favorite with law enforcement, and the noise is so sensitive they sniff out bombs to drugs.
5. GSPs love the outdoors.
The GSP is always ready for an outdoor adventure regardless of the weather because the dog is a hunter. They are blessed with boundless energy and are at their best when running through a field or woodland.
If you are a long-distance runner or cyclist, your GSP will be your best buddy and keep you company on every adventure.
Don’t be too concerned; your GSP loves to be a couch potato also and will love to curl up and nuzzle you as you watch tv together.
6. Not a breed to be left alone
Your GSP will love being by your side all the time, and when you are not there or at least in earshot, the GSP will suffer from separation anxiety.
The GSP is not a dog to leave in a kennel all day or in an apartment while you work. The dog will decline and become destructive, trying to find a way out of its predicament.
The GSP loves attention, in the form of being outdoors and working for you or with lots of cuddles and treats, remove either, and your GSP will become anxious.
7. Being around other animals
The GSP forms bonds easily with you and then becomes protective. When out socializing with other animals, they will have a tendency to run after anything that moves quickly, and you will need to keep your GSP on a lead until he has been appropriately trained.
Your dog loves you; as a consequence, anything it may catch while out on an adventure will indeed be given to you as a sign of gratitude and love from the GSP. It may not be the best gift in your eyes, but it’s all yours!
8. GSP is a sporting legend
Your GSP is super intelligent and will excel at any sporting event for dogs. Their agility is second to none, and their strength and endurance are to be envied by many dog breeds.
If you are into coursing and eventing, such as breed field trials and agility tests, you may take home all of the accolades.
9. The dreaded shedding
If you are allergic to dog hairs and dander, this is not a dog for you. In warm climates, the GSP can shed all year round; the short hairs get everywhere and are difficult to remove from fabrics as they are stubby and stiff.
Of course, the hair is not one color, so it will be visible regardless of what precautions you take in your home.
Grooming will help, sometimes.
10. GSPs can live longer than other breeds.
The GSP is a healthy dog breed; it can live up to 16 years, while most other breeds have an average life expectancy of 10 to 12 years.
However, the GSP is not totally free from problems and could suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia and cataracts.
GSPs can be prone to bloat, which can be life-threatening. Consult your veterinary surgeon for advice on recognizing the symptoms of bloat in a GSP.
11. GSP needs dog toys and has weird sleeping positions
It’s already established that the GSP is full of energy, and when they are chilling in your home can be couch potatoes, but when they get the zoomies, then you better have a toy or two lying around if you value your shoes!
When your dog rests, don’t be shocked to see them with their legs akimbo, laying on their backs!
