German Shorthaired Pointer picture
German Shorthaired Pointer

GSP, DK, Kurzhaar, Deutscher Kurzhaariger Vorstehhund, Deutsch Kurzhaar

Overview

The shorthaired is an all-purpose close-working gun dog that combines agility, power and endurance. It is square or slightly longer than tall; although it has a short back, it should stand over plenty of ground. It should have a clean-cut head, graceful outline, strong quarters and an athletic physique. The gait is smooth, light and ground-covering. The coat is short and tough.

The German shorthaired pointer's idea of heaven is a day hunting in the field and an evening curled up by its owner's side. This is an active dog that can become frustrated and "creative" if not given ample daily exercise, both mental and physical. It is a devoted family pet, although at times it is overly boisterous for small children. Because part of its heritage includes hunting mammals, some can be aggressive to small pets unless raised with them. It is a sensitive breed, responsive to gentle training. Some can whine or bark a lot.

Size Medium to Large
Height Male: 23-25 inches (59-64 cm)Female: 21-23 inches (53-58 cm)
Weight Male: 55-70 pounds (25-32 kg)Female: 45-60 pounds (20-27 kg)
Lifespan 12-14 years
Colors Black Black & White Black Roan Liver Liver & White Liver Roan White White & Liver
Origin Germany
Classification Purebred
Good Lapcat
Good In Apartments

This breed is not recommended for apartment life and does best with a large yard and an active, athletic family. It may be able to jump any fence that is lower than 6 feet tall. Under exercised, bored GSPs are great escape artists.

Good With Children

Good with Kids: This is a suitable breed for kids and is known to be playful, energetic, and affectionate around them.

Good With Dogs

Good With Cats

In the field, he’s an aggressive hunter, a trait that can carry over into the home if cats, squirrels or birds stray into his territory.

Exercise Needs

Exercise is of paramount importance for these tireless, energetic animals. They are more than a match for even the most active family and they should not be taken on as family pets unless they can be guaranteed plenty of vigorous exercise. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk, jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. If under-exercised, this breed can become restless and destructive.

Trainability

Easy Training: The German Shorthaired Pointer is intelligent and has a well-deserved reputation of being highly trainable. German Shorthaired Pointers adapt easily to a wide variety of hunting and field jobs including pointing and retrieving on land and water.

Affectionate

Playfulness

Grooming Requirements

Low Maintenance: The German Shorthair’s water-repellent coat has thick, short hair that protects the dog from brush and helps insulate him from the cold. The coat itself is easy to care for — brush it weekly with a rubber hound mitt or firm bristle brush to keep the hair and skin healthy — but the breed has a couple of grooming quirks you should be aware of.

Shedding

Moderate Shedding: Routine brushing will help. Be prepared to vacuum often!

Vocalization/Barking

Occassional

German Shorthaired Pointer Pictures