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Gundog group · Germany

German Shorthaired Pointer

Also called GSP, Deutsch Kurzhaar.

Large dog, needs a serious amount of exercise, learns almost anything, fast.

  • Friendly
  • Smart
  • Willing
  • Enthusiastic
  • Bold
AI-generated illustration of an adult German Shorthaired Pointer
AI-generated illustration
Size
Large
Weight
20 to 32 kg45 to 70 lb
Lives
10 to 12 years
Energy
Very High
Trains
Very High
Barks
Moderate

Training

Training a German Shorthaired Pointer

Gundog breeds. Quick to learn and quick to get over-excited. The work is calm around distractions, not obedience.

  1. Mental and Physical Exercise

    Start here

    GSPs need both brain work and body work. Combine obedience training with field activities for best results.

  2. Versatility Training

    These all-around athletes excel at many activities: hunting, agility, dock diving, and more. Variety prevents boredom.

  3. Consistent Boundaries

    Their intelligence and energy can lead to mischief without clear rules. Start training early and maintain consistency.

The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.

Add your German Shorthaired Pointer and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, on video with Atlas and Shango.

Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.

At home

Living with one

Bred to find, flush and retrieve game alongside a person. Biddable, busy, and happiest with a job.

Gets on with

  • ChildrenHigh
  • Other dogsHigh
  • StrangersHigh
  • CatsLow

Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.

Exercise
2+ hours daily. Vigorous exercise essential, running, swimming, and field work ideal. Not suitable for sedentary households.
Grooming
Low. Weekly brushing and occasional bathing. Easy-care coat but ears need regular cleaning.
Drool
Low
Coat
Short, Dense, Water-repellentLiver, Liver and White, Liver Roan, Liver and White Patched
In a flat
Needs more space than a flat gives.

Health

Things to ask a breeder or vet about

  • Hip Dysplasia

    Moderate

    Joint condition requiring health screening of breeding dogs

  • Bloat (GDV)

    Severe

    Deep-chested breeds at higher risk for stomach torsion

  • Cone Degeneration

    Mild

    Day blindness condition that can be tested for genetically

Where they come from

History

Developed in Germany in the 1800s as an all-purpose hunting dog capable of pointing, retrieving on land and water, and tracking wounded game. Created by crossing German Bird Dogs with English Pointers and various tracking hounds, resulting in one of the most versatile sporting breeds.

  • CJ · Best in Show winner at the 2016 Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show, showcasing breed excellence

Similar breeds

All breeds

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