FAQ
We answer your most pressing questions about German Shorthaired Pointers including about the breed, characteristics, athleticism and more.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers Hyper?
No, but they are high energy and need a job to do. They are a working dog and best when they are kept busy. They are not a breed that just hangs with you while you read a book, they are a dog that likes to be with you on a hike, at the beach and best of all they love to run.
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If I fix my dog, will he get fat and not hunt?
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When you fix your dog the dog’s metabolism slows down and they actually need less to eat so feed them less and they will maintain a trim body style until the day they pass. The desire to hunt has nothing to do with its sexual organs. Hunting ability and trainability are located between the ears.
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What medical concerns are there with owning a Shorthair?
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Very few, for a large dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer has a long-life span living to 13-14 years on the average. However, when buying a puppy, going with a breeder who uses Genetic Testing on both parents and pups is a good idea. This will allow the buyer to have full knowledge of any genetic traits that are present. Parents and grandparents should have an OFA rating of good or excellent, to ensure the health of the pup’s hips and prevention of hip dysplasia. Certification of eyes, elbow, heart, thyroid, and a Cone Degeneration test is strongly recommended as well.
What is OFA?
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Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), is a non profit organization that disseminates information concerning orthopedic and genetic diseases of animals.
Can a Shorthair do anything besides hunt?
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Yes many GSPs have obedience and agility titles and go to hospitals as therapy dogs. Versatility is part of the attraction to this breed.
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Are German Shorthaired Pointers good with children?
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Yes, most shorthairs are excellent family dogs, but because of their activity level may not be a good match with families and young children. If you have young children a rescue dog or an older mature dog may be great match.
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If I adopt a rescue dog the dog will not bond to me?
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Not true, shorthairs are people loving dogs and re-connect with new owners remarkably well.