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Gundog group · England

Pointer

Also called English Pointer.

Large dog, needs a serious amount of exercise, quick to learn.

  • Even-tempered
  • Kind
  • Loyal
  • Hardworking
  • Athletic
AI-generated illustration of an adult Pointer
AI-generated illustration
Size
Large
Weight
20 to 34 kg45 to 75 lb
Lives
12 to 17 years
Energy
Very High
Trains
High
Barks
Moderate

Training

Training a Pointer

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

  1. Exercise Before Training

    Start here

    This high-energy breed focuses better after physical activity. A tired Pointer is a trainable Pointer.

  2. Natural Pointing Instinct

    Pointers have strong innate abilities. Gentle guidance refines natural talent rather than teaching from scratch.

  3. Positive Reinforcement

    Sensitive to correction, they respond excellently to praise and rewards. Keep training sessions upbeat.

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

Add your 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
  • CatsModerate

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

Exercise
2+ hours daily. Requires running and field work, not just lead walking. Ideal for runners and hunters.
Grooming
Low. Weekly brushing to remove loose hair. Easy-care short coat.
Drool
Low
Coat
Short, Smooth, DenseLiver, Lemon, Black, Orange, Liver and White, Lemon and White, Black and White, Orange and White
In a flat
Needs more space than a flat gives.

Health

Things to ask a breeder or vet about

  • Hip Dysplasia

    Moderate

    Joint condition that can affect mobility in active dogs

  • Epilepsy

    Moderate

    Seizure disorder that may require lifelong medication

  • Entropion

    Mild

    Eyelid rolling inward, may require surgical correction

Where they come from

History

Developed in England in the 1600s, the Pointer is considered the ultimate bird dog, prized for its ability to locate and point game birds. Spanish Pointers were crossed with various hounds and later refined for speed and style. The breed has remained largely unchanged for over 150 years.

  • Judy · A ship's dog and the only dog to be officially registered as a Japanese POW during WWII, later awarded the Dickin Medal for animal bravery

Similar breeds

All breeds

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