The Pointer is a medium to large dog with a height of 22-24 inches in the male dogs and 21-24 inches in the female bitches, and weighing 55-66 pounds for males and 44-60 pounds the females. The Pointer is gracefully athletic in appearance with sleek muscular back legs. They are a brave dog and socialises well with other dogs and people, although the earlier they are introduced the better. Pointers are quite famous for the straightness of their head to tail profile; their average sized proportional head sits on a long muscular neck leading down to the deep chest and muscular upper legs. Pointers can even manage to run with an air of grace about them.
History. Pointers as they are today were associated to the American kennel club in 1975, at that time it was decided to bring all the sub breeds under the one title. The name originated pursuant to the way the dog stands stock still when it spots its target, it is as if the dog is pointing to the game with its nose. The earliest mention of the pointer was in England in the vicinity of 1650. Due to their excellent ability to catch a scent and point in the direction of the game, they have become very popular hunting dogs. The dogs can run at great speed, covering long distances in a short period of time, although they are not retrievers, and are not expected to bring the kill back.
Temperament. Pointers are well tempered dog and friendly, they are happiest in a home, as a member of the family. Unusually, for a hunting dog, the pointer, although very energetic and enthusiastic in their hunting, they are reasonably happy with just an adequate amount of exercise, it does not have an uncontrollable urge to hunt smaller animals. They adapt well to their surroundings, although can be a little shy of strangers. You need to ensure that you are master over the dog, as they are themselves strong minded, to lack mastery over this or any other hunting dog is asking the trouble. Whilst they are not watchdogs, they will react to, and probably bark at, unusual noises or activities.
Health issues. As a breed the pointers are very healthy dogs, with a 13 to 14 year life span, that have few illnesses associated to them. As with all largish dogs they can suffer hip dysplasia, they are predisposed to epilepsy. Apart from these they can be prone to some skin problems, although not particularly serious; they will need attention if contracted.
Grooming. This is probably one of the simplest breeds to groom a simple brushing, or even just a rub down with a cloth, every week or two is normally adequate care for their short coat. You should, however, inspect your dog regularly for skin problems; they can be prone to fleas and the like, because of their delicate skin it's quite important to ensure they are adequately protected from such attacks. As they are floppy eared dogs, care should be taken in the inspection and cleaning of their ears every couple of weeks. Bathing of the pointer is rarely required, and due to the problem of washing the healthy oils from their hair and skin a bath should only be given annually.
Living conditions. These are active and energetic dogs and on occasions can appear tireless; they will require a couple of hours exercise every day. Playing in the garden is an effective way of providing some of the exercise requirements, but a long brisk walk will also be necessary. If you are a jogger you will find the dog has no problem keeping up with you, in fact, it may end up being the other way around.
Having said that they are quite happy, for a reasonable period of time, to just lie on your favourite couch watching television with you. This is definitely not a dog to own if you live in an apartment, although they are happy for their rest periods they do require an exceptional amount of exercise and space.
