Pointer Picture, also called English Pointer
Canis lupus familiaris

   The English Pointer is excellent at locating game, to ‘point’ is an instinctual skill of the Pointer.

The Pointer is a sophisticated breed, with quite a mix of dog breeds bearing strong characteristics in its background. It is believed to have a heiratage of Greyhound, Bloodhound, Foxhound and Bull Terrier. This type of mix in its makeup adds to its abilities as a prize hunting dog.

The English Pointer was bred as a hunting dog but also makes a lively and friendly pet. These dogs are affectionate, intelligent, and loyal. They are also known for being very energetic. Dogs from show lines tend to do better as pets than those from field lines due to their more moderate energy levels.

  • Kingdom: Animalia
  • Phylum: Chordata
  • Class: Mammalia
  • Order: Carnivora
  • Family: Canidae
  • Genus: Canis
  • Species: lupus familiaris

Common Name(s)

Pointer, English Pointer

Breed Type

A sporting breed, the Pointer is skilled at locating upland game. It may also find the prey once it is dead or wounded.

Background

The Pointer was carefully bred to be a hunting dog. They have historically been used to locate game for hunters, and were often paired with retrievers who would chase or retrieve the game. It is believed that the Pointer’s background includes Greyhounds, Foxhounds, Bloodhounds, and Bull Terriers
Today, Pointers are occasionally bred with Labradors and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers.

Description

Pointers are muscular, with short coats. They may be white, liver, lemon, black, or orange, and they may be solid, patched, speckled, or tri-colored. Ears are mid-length and pendant-shaped. Eyes are hazel or chestnut, and the tail is long, straight and tapering. Males measure 22-24 inches tall; females, 21-24 inches tall. Weight should be between 44 and 66 pounds.

Care and Feeding

The Pointer’s diet should include brown rice, avocado, poultry, and fish. Regular brushing and as-needed bathing will keep your Pointer’s coat looking beautiful. It is important to check the feet and ears regularly.
Pointers should have annual checkups. Vaccinations are due as follows:

  • 6-8 weeks: Distemper, Leptospirosis, Hepatitis, Parainfluenza, Parvo, and Corona virus (DHLPPC)
  • 10-12 weeks: Second DHLPPC
  • 14-16 weeks: Third DHLPPC and rabies
  • Annually: DHLPPC and rabies booster

The Pointer is an average shedder. Regular vacuuming is important if kept indoors.

Housing Your Dog

Pointers should have ample living space. They are fairly active when kept indoors, and they should have access to a large yard.

Social Behaviors

Pointers are friendly with humans, including children and strangers. They may be timid if not socialized properly. They are usually well behaved with other pets, including dogs.

Handling and Training

Pointers are sometimes difficult to train due to their tendency to be easily distracted. They may also be slow to housebreak. Pointing is instinctual to them, so they are fairly easy to train for hunting purposes.

Activities

Pointers need lots and lots of exercise, including a daily walk or jog. They also love to swim, and should have regular opportunities to play off-leash.

Breeding/Reproduction

When selecting a mate for your Pointer, check bloodlines for hip dysplasia, epilepsy, and eye problems.

Common Health Problems

Overall, the Pointer is a healthy breed. Potential problems include epilepsy, eye problems, and joint disorders. Allergies are also somewhat common.

Availability

Pointers are fairly hard to find in many areas. Breeders may be located online. Prices vary greatly.

References

Pointer“, Wikipedia, Copyright 2008
Pointer“, Dog Breed Info Center, Copyright 1998-2008
Cusick, William D., “What to Feed a Pointer“, Referenced online, 2008
Welton, Michelle, “Pointers: What’s Good About ‘Em? What’s Bad About ‘Em?“, Copyright 2000-2008
Pointer Puppies for Sale“, Copyright PuppyFind.com, LLC, Referenced online, 2008


Featured Image Credit: Jelena Safronova, Shutterstock