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German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Breed Introduction
German Shorthaired Pointer (also known as GSP dog) is a medium to large sized pointing dog breed developed in 1800 for hunting in Germany. It has webbed feet and it is well-known for going after waterfowl in water. German Shorthaired Pointers are highly energetic dogs that love interaction with humans. They also make wonderful pets for active families that will meet their energy levels. They are also escape artists that can escape from a 4 to 6 foot enclosures with ease. To alleviate the desire to escape, pet parents may involve this dog in regular running, skijoring, carting, mushing, bikejoring, dog scootering, hunting, or any other vigorous activity.
It is also a sporting dog that requires space to run and much exercise. However, German Shorthaired Pointers should not exercise vigorously one hour before or after meals since they are prone to gastric dilatation volvulus(bloat). They are also a vocal breed that makes excellent watchdogs. A GSP dog can also perform all gun dog roles including being a water dog, pointer, an upland bird dog, and retriever. GSPs are also velcro dogs that don’t do well when left alone all day or exiled in a kennel with little human interaction.
German Shorthaired Pointer History
In the late 19th century, German Shorthaired Pointers were created by breeders who wanted an all-round hunting dog that also made a friendly companion. This breed was created after master breeders experimented by crossing pointing dogs and tracking hound dogs in the quest for a quick but powerful hunter possessing versality and plenty of nose. The experimenting crosses were a success since GSPs are among the top-winning breeds in competitive hunting events. One of the breeders credited as a key player in the early development of a GSP dog is Prince Albrecht zu Solms-Braunfels.
According to AKC, German Shorthaired Pointers were descended from German Bird Dog that is related to the Old Spanish Pointer that was introduced in 1600s in Germany. There is also a possibility that various German tracking dogs, hound, Arkwright Pointer, and English Pointer also contributed to the development of a GSP dog. The first GSP was imported in the USA by Dr. Charles Thornton of Montana in 1925, who started to breed the dogs. AKC(American Kennel Club) recognized GSP dogs as a breed in 1930.
Although, World War II affected the breeding of GSP dogs. While the war was nearing to an end, many breeders hid their diamonds, gold, and sent their best German Shorthaired Pointers for safe keeping in Yugoslavia. These dogs have also inspired several authors who have written a book based on German Shorthaired Pointers including Robert B. Parker, Thomas Mann, Rick Bass, and Mel Ellis. Currently, GSP dogs rank 19th among 155 breeds and varieties recognized by the American Kennel Club.
German Shorthaired Pointer Lifespan
According to AKC, German Shorthaired Pointers have an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years. Although, a Danish survey depicted that a GSP dog has a lifespan of 9 years while a UK survey had 12 years as the median lifespan of a GSP. According to the UK survey, 1 in 8 dogs lived up to the age of 15 years with the longest-lived pooch having a lifespan of 17 years.
German Shorthaired Pointer Life Stages
A GSP has several life stages including Puppy hood that lasts from birth up to 6 months, Adolescence from the age of 6 to 12 months, and adulthood that may start from the age of 18 0r 24 months. Small dogs tend to mature quickly as compared to larger breeds. They get to their full adult size at the age of 12 months. Medium-to Large sized dogs like GSP may reach their adult physical maturity at the age of 18 to 24 months.
German Shorthaired Pointer Grooming
In warm climates, German Shorthaired Pointers shed all-year round. Elsewhere, the shedding is noticeable at certain times throughout the year. Coat brushing is recommended every few days using a rubber horse brush, grooming glove, or a soft bristle brush. Regular brushing removes dirt and loose hairs that would easily get embedded around the house.
A GSP dog is a very clean breed that requires occasional bathing using a gentle shampoo every 4 to 8 weeks unless it rolls in something stinky. Before bathing, brush the coat to remove loose hair that may clog the bathing tab. After a bath, thoroughly rinse of the grooming products that would irritate the skin. Soapy water irritates the eyes. Use a damp clean washcloth to wipe the face. Nails should be trimmed every two weeks using nail clippers. Overly grown nails are painful for your dog while walking or running. While introducing your dog to nail clipping, use lots of treats and only trim one nail, one day at a time.
To maintain oral hygiene, brush the teeth of a GSP dog twice a week if not daily using a dog-formulated toothpaste and toothbrush. A GSP has flop ears that require weekly cleaning using cotton balls and ear cleanser solution to remove excess wax or debris. Remember to check out for odor, redness, and dark discharge since they are signs of dog ear infection.
German Shorthaired Pointer Shedding
A GSP that resides in warm climate will shed all-year round. In cold areas, a GSP dog will shed at certain times throughout the year especially during Spring and/or Fall. Regular brushing several days a week is recommended using a soft but firm bristle brush, rubber horse brush, or a grooming glove to remove the loose hairs. Failure to brush the coat will result in short hairs embedding your couch, carpet, socks, feet, clothes, etc.
German Shorthaired Pointer Coat
A German Shorthaired Pointer has a short and thick coat with a dense undercoat that is protected by stiff guard hairs making it waterproof. The dense and waterproof coat allows the dog to stay warm in cold weather. It also makes a GSP dog to be an agile hunter with high performance in both water and field.
German Shorthaired Pointer Hypoallergenic
Typically, German Shorthaired Pointers shed constantly hence not regarded hypoallergenic. Shedding allows spread of dander and hair around the house. A GSP dog has a short coat that will easily weave in the carpet, socks, or couch. Dog’s hair, dander, saliva, mucus, or urine have a protein allergen that triggers allergic reactions in people who suffer from dog allergies.
German Shorthaired Pointer Training | Training Tips
A German Shorthaired Pointer is an intelligent dog that learns quickly with consistent training sessions. Training a pup from an early age of 8 or 9 weeks is recommended. During the first year of having a GSP dog, make sure they are well-versed with the basics before teaching other things. Exercise the dog and then try some training. In order to raise a well-adjusted and well-mannered GSP, socialization, puppy classes, and teaching basic commands is required. Socialization starts from the age of 3 weeks while the dog is still with the breeder. This training continues until the age of 16 weeks when a GSP is with the owner.
When a pet parent brings a GSP pup home from the age of 8 or 9 weeks, they should begin with socialization training. To socialize your dog, expose it to different people, animals, sight, smell, situations, surfaces, experiences, and sounds such as vacuum cleaners, washing machine, lawn mowers, sirens, sounds of baby crying, and whistles. While socializing your dog to new people, ensure they approach the dog in a way that it won’t intimidate it. Get your friends or strangers who want to meet your pet bend down low and wait the dog to make the first move. This is because puppies go through fear stages at different times.
You should socialize a GSP pup from the age of 12 to 14 weeks to other dogs as soon as it is vaccinated with the second shots. Enrolling a GSP dog in puppy classes will also serve as a form of socialization. These classes allow your dog to socialize with other dogs in a controlled environment that is likely to have fewer problems. Even after socializing your dog to different places, people, animals, and sounds, they may suddenly become scared, shy, or start hiding at the sound of certain noises or when around strangers.
During the on-set of fear which may be at 6, 12, and 18 months, ignore the fear. However, if a stranger approaches the dog and it is still afraid, remove your GSP dog from the situation. Start leashing training when the dog is still young. Otherwise, a GSP will grow in size and get stronger, they will start pulling on their leashes. Keep the training sessions short but fun for a span of five to 10 minutes distributed throughout the day. German Shorthaired Pointers get distracted easily. Use positive reinforcement methods for better results through the use of treats, verbal praise, playtime, or toys.
Teach basic command words like sit, come, stay, down, heel, leave it, etc. one at a time before proceeding to another command word. Avoid uttering the command words while too excited or frustrated since the command words may sound different for your dog. For effective house training, crate training, creating a feeding guide, and potty training is recommended. It may take four months to fully housebreak a pup. Consistency, patience, and being firm are key.
German Shorthaired Pointer Crate Training
A crate is an indispensable device while potty training. It helps the pet parents to monitor the dog for signs that it wants to eliminate including whining, circling, sniffing, squatting, or lifting a leg against the corner of a crate. Naturally, dogs avoid soiling where they live by choice. A crate is also useful to keep a dog safe while in the house. A German Shorthaired Pointer is also a Velcro dog that suffers from separation anxiety when left alone for long hours. It may also engage in destructive behaviors. A Crate will teach this breed to be confident in staying alone for short hours.
Make the crate appealing by throwing a treat or toy inside the crate while the puppy is watching. Encourage the pup to get inside the crate. Close the crate door after the puppy gets in. It may start whining to be left off the crate. However, don’t give in, ensure the dog calms down before letting it off the crate. Otherwise, it will associate whining as a means of getting it off the crate. Make this device comfortable and appealing by lining it with a comfortable blanket. While in the house, always leave the crate door open so that the dog may understand that using a crate is not a forced experience.
Always position a crate where they are other ongoing daily activities. A crate is also a place that the dogs retreats to. It is a safe haven. It should never be used as a means of punishing the dog. Ensure the crate is positioned in a room that doesn’t get too hot or cold. Remember to remove a collar or harness while letting the dog inside the crate. At night, put the crate inside your room. Cover all the crate sides apart from the front side using a bed sheet or towel to block the light. Utter the word, bedtime to notify your dog that it is time to sleep.
German Shorthaired Pointer Potty Training
For effective Potty training, take your German Shorthaired Pointer outside immediately it wakes up, after naptime, every 2 to 3 hours, after eating and drinking, following an exciting activity such as a car ride and playtime, and before bedtime. A crate is a required device for this training. It allows a pet parent to monitor for signs that the dog wants to eliminate including whining, circling, squatting, and lifting a leg against the crate. Before bringing the dog home, choose a designated area that is far from the BBQ spot or patio deck.
The rule of thumb when potty training, is understanding that the bladder and bowel muscles strengthen as the dog matures. From the age of 8 weeks, a puppy may hold for two hours before eliminating. At the age of 12 weeks, a pup holds for 3 hours before eliminating. Once you take the dog to the designated toilet area, utter the command word toilet or potty to give the dog the cue to eliminate. However, stick to one command word for this training. Using these command words interchangeably may make your dog confused. Remain in the toilet area for a period of 15 minutes to allow the bowel and bladder muscles to relax for a pee or poo. If the dog fails to eliminate, go back to the house and return it to the elimination spot after 15 minutes.
Before a dog is fully housebroken, it may experience accidents in the house. When this happens, utter a firm no and immediately take the dog to the toilet area. After the dog eliminates there, give it a reward. Remember to clean the mess using an iodine solution or an enzymatic detergent to remove the odor. If the odor is not removed, it will encourage future accidents after the dog sniffs the spot. Before the age of 16 weeks, set an alarm to take the dog outside for elimination at least once a night.
German Shorthaired Pointer Temperament | Traits
- Tireless.
- Reliable.
- Hardy.
- Tenacious.
- Intelligent.
- Bold.
- Energetic.
- Eccentric.
- Affectionate.
- Friendly.
- Enthusiastic.
- Strong hunting instinct.
- Athletic.
- Willing to please.
- Trainable.
German Shorthaired Pointer Exercise
A German Shorthaired Pointer is an athletic, tireless, and energetic dog that requires a great deal of mental and physical exercise. This may ideally include a brisk half-hour walks in the morning and evening, playing in a secured fenced yard, swimming, or running. They also excel in a wide range of canine activities that exercise their body and mind including dock diving, agility, obedience, skijoring, bikejoring, etc. Failure to exercise a GSP dog on a daily basis, it becomes destructive and nervous. Lack of sufficient exercise and/or proper training can produce a GSP that has destructive tendencies or hyperactive. It is not recommended for novice pet parents or an inactive home.
German Shorthaired Pointer Barking
A GSP is also a vocal breed that may develop a tendency of barking a lot. It makes a great guard dog. If barking becomes a problem, train to bark on command by saying speak and also teach them the quiet command word. With these two commands, the GSP will know when to bark and when not to.
German Shorthaired Pointer Howling
Howling is a form of dog communication that is lengthy. It is sustained with sounds that are loud and audible over long distances. A GSP may howl indicating that it is in its territory.
German Shorthaired Pointer Height
A female GSP has a height of 21 to 23 inches ( approx. 53 to 58 cm) while its male counterpart has a height of 23 to 25 inches ( approx. 58 to 64 cm).
German Shorthaired Pointer Weight
A male GSP dog has a weight of 55 to 70 pounds ( approx. 25 to 32 kg) while its female counterpart has a weight of 45 to 60 pounds ( approx. 20 to 27 kg ).
German Shorthaired Pointer Size
A GSP is a medium to large sized dog. Although, female GSP dogs are slightly smaller when compared to their male counterparts. A female GSP has a height of 21 to 23 inches ( approx. 53 to 58 cm) and a weight of 45 to 60 pounds ( approx. 20 to 27 kg ) whereas a male GSP dog has a height of 23 to 25 inches ( approx. 58 to 64 cm) and a weight of 55 to 70 pounds ( approx. 25 to 32 kg).
German Shorthaired Pointer Aggression
German Shorthaired Pointers are non-aggressive dogs that are friendly, affectionate, willing to please, and enthusiastic. The temperament of dogs can be affected by training, heredity, and socialization. Aggression in GSP dogs can be triggered by fear, abuse, past traumatic events, frustration, maternal aggression, possessiveness, pain, or frustration.
German Shorthaired Pointer Biting
Biting and nipping is rampant when pups are playing, exploring their environment, and when teething due to discomfort. Puppy biting may seem adorable but not for long after the dog matures and has serious biting issues. Pet parents are urged to curb biting before it develops into a behavior through redirection and bite inhibition training.
German Shorthaired Pointer Hair Loss
A GSP dog experiences normal hair loss all-year round or at certain times throughout the year depending whether it resides in warm or cold environment in a process described as shedding. However, hair loss in patches may be a result of exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus, a genetic form of lupus in which the immune system attacks the body’s own cells and tissue causing itchy lesions and hair loss. Other causes of hair loss in GSP dogs include hormonal changes, mange, hypothyroidism, allergies, stress, or Cushing’s disease.
Apart from German Shorthaired Pointer, other breeds of dogs include:
Pug.
German Shorthaired Pointer Eye Problems
Some of the eye problems that GSP dogs are susceptible to include:
Cataracts – this is an eye condition that results to a cloudy and whitish eye lens. If left unattended, cataracts cause blindness.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy – this is an inherited eye disease that affects photoreceptors leading to gradual loss of vision.
Distichiasis – This is an eye disease caused by the extra hair growth inside the eyelid that rubs on the cornea which causes chronic eye pain and corneal ulcers if left untreated.
Entropion – This is where the eyelid rolls inwards making the eyelashes to rub the cornea which can cause eye infection.
German Shorthaired Pointer Ear Problems
A GSP dog has flop ears that cover the ear canal. These ears protect the middle ear against dirt and debris. However, they prevent air flow which leads to accumulation of moisture. They also create a dark and humid environment for bacteria to thrive. A German Shorthaired Pointer is also prone to ear infection due to ear mites (Otodectosis), yeast imbalances, excessive cleaning, injury to the ear canal(hematoma), endocrine disorders such as hypothyroidism, excess wax, dirt, or debris, and accumulation of moisture from swimming.
A GSP dog is predisposed to three types of ear infections including externa, media, and interna otitis respectively. Externa otitis is far more common and causes inflammation to the cells located in the external ear canal. If left untreated, the infection spreads to the middle and inner ear canal. Media and interna otitis refer to the infection to the middle and inner ear canal respectively.
These infections cause deafness, facial paralysis, and vestibular signs such as disorientation, blurred vision, and dizziness. Symptoms exhibited by a GSP that is suffering from an ear infection include head shaking, rubbing the affected ear against the surface, walking in circles, dark discharge, odor, redness, scabs at the affected ear, and pain.
German Shorthaired Pointer Health Issues
Although, GSP dogs are tough and healthy dogs, they are susceptible to a number of hereditary disorders including hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, progressive retinal atrophy, osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD), skin disorders, epilepsy, allergies, skin disorders, cancerous lesions (in the mouth, skin, and other parts of the body), exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus, and gastric dilatation volvulus.
German Shorthaired Pointer Stomach Problems
German Shorthaired Pointers are medium-to large deep-chested dogs that are prone to a stomach problem referred to as bloat or gastric dilatation volvulus. It is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate veterinary treatment. A GSP dog may have a stomach bloat if it exercises vigorously one hour before and after meals, drinks large amounts of water after meals, eats rapidly, and feeds one large meal a day.
This stomach problem makes the tummy to distend with air or gas and then it twists such that the dog is not able to get rid of the excess air through vomiting or burping. Bloat also affects the normal return of blood to the heart causing a drop in blood pressure. This makes the dog to go into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the life of a GSP dog will be cut short. Symptoms of bloat include weakness, lethargy, excessive salivation, distended abdomen, depression, restlessness, and retching without throwing up.
German Shorthaired Pointer Back Leg Problems | Hip Problems
GSP dogs are predisposed to hip dysplasia, deformity of the hip joint. This back leg problem is contributed by various factors including diet, environment, and genetics. Apart from hip dysplasia, other leg problems that a GSP dog may suffer from include Eosinophilic Panosteitis. This is the inflammation of the outer surface of one or more long bones of the legs.
German Shorthaired Pointer Cancer
A German Shorthaired Pointer is prone to cancerous lesions on the skin, mouth, and other areas of the body. Intact female GSP dogs are prone to breast cancer.
German Shorthaired Pointer Names
After getting a GSP pup from a responsible breeder, the next best thing is finding a name for the fur baby. Names may be inspired by the athletic, energetic, bold, intelligent, and affectionate personality of these dogs. Some pet parents my name their dogs based on the coat color, German origin, movies, historical figures, nature, songs, books, celebrity dogs, and food.
Regardless of where the pet parent will get the name inspiration, he or she should ensure that the name chosen freely rolls of his or her tongue. It should also not make the pet parent embarrassed when uttered out loud in the public places. GSP dogs and other breeds better understand a name that has vowels.
If a pet parent settles with a long name, he or she should find a cute nickname for the fur baby. A name that rhymes with the command words create confusion. If a dog shares a name with other family members or guest who frequent your home, that creates confusion.
Female German Shorthaired Pointer Names
- Peanut.
- Sadie.
- Giselle.
- Madeline.
- Noelle.
- Naomi.
- Delilah.
- Fiona.
- Daphie.
- Dakota.
- Vivian, etc.
German Shorthaired Pointer Speed
A Healthy adult GSP may ran up to an average speed of 35 to 45 miles per hour ( approx. 56 to 72 km/h).
Male German Shorthaired Pointer Names
- Howie.
- Vincent.
- Joshua.
- Dante.
- Leon.
- Billy.
- Huck.
- Caleb.
- Finn.
- Skippy.
- Cooper, etc.
German Shorthaired Pointer Seizures
Seizures ( also fit or convulsions) refers to the disturbance of the normal functioning of the brain that is normally accompanied by uncontrollable muscle activity. Dogs are predisposed to three types categorized according to their causes; primary, secondary, and reactive seizures.
Primary seizures are hereditary even though the cause is unknown. GSP dogs are predisposed to primary seizures which starts manifesting when the dog is between the age of 6 months to 3 years. They are also referred to as idiopathic seizures since the cause is not known.
Secondary seizures are caused by stroke, trauma to the head, or brain tumor. Reactive seizures are the brain’s reaction to a metabolic problem that is usually caused by low blood sugar, toxins, or organ failure.
The intensity of seizures and frequency are categorized into focal and grand mal seizures. The dog is conscious while experiencing focal seizure since it affects one part of the brain. On the other hand, Grand Mal seizures affects the two parts of the brain causing loss of consciousness, foaming mouth, stiffening of the muscles, and urination or defecation.
German Shorthaired Pointer Heat Cycle | Mating
The heat cycle of a GSP dam lasts for a period of 2 to 3 weeks. The process recurs after every six months. Female GSP dogs experience their first heat cycle at the age of 10 to 14 months. Pet parents are recommended to spay their dogs if they have no intention of breeding. This reduces the risk of developing breast cancer. If left intact, a GSP dam may be pregnant in its teen since dogs don’t experience menopause.
Some of the signs that GSP dogs exhibit while on heat include a bloody discharge, swollen vulva, increased urination, changes in eating habits, nesting behavior, tail flagging, and moody swings.
Before breeding potential German Shorthaired Pointer dam and sire, ensure they are screened for eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, and any other health issues that affect this breed. It is recommended to wait until the dam is 2 years old. This allows it to physically and emotionally develop to take care of a litter. An aggressive dam should not be breed since the GSP puppies will either be fearful or aggressive.
German Shorthaired Pointer Litter | Litter Size
After conception, a GSP dam has a gestation period of 63 days before whelping a litter size of 8 to 12 puppies. However, both small and larger litters are expected. The largest known litter for this breed is 15 plus puppies.
German Shorthaired Pointer Harness | Collar
A German Shorthaired Pointer possess a strong hunting instinct. Although, trained to walk on leash without pulling, it is likely to pull while trying to go after a prey. A collar strains the throat and neck of the dog if it pulls on a leash. GSP dogs are also athletic and enjoy activities like hiking, bikejoring, etc. where a harness is preferred. However, a pet parent may use both a harness and a collar. A harness is used to attach the ID and Rabies tag while a harness will attach the leash.
German Shorthaired Pointer Food
The amount of food that a German Shorthaired Pointer feeds on depends on its age, size, body build, activity level, and metabolism. Puppies have a high metabolism and should be fed 3 to 4 times a day before the age of 6 months. From the age of 6 months, GSP dogs should feed two meals a day for life. These dogs are medium-to large sized with a deep chest. They are susceptible to gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat).
This is a life threatening condition that occurs once the dog is fed one large meal a day, exercises vigorously after and before meals, eats rapidly, and drinks large amounts of water after eating. Therefore, pet parents should refrain from feeding GSP dogs one hour before or after exercise, avoid consumption of large amounts of water with dry food, and feed the dogs twice a day instead of one single large meal. Dogs may feed on dry food, semi-moist food, canned, homemade, and raw diet. The type of food that a GSP feeds on depends on the available time for preparation and budget of the owner.
Regardless of the food that the owner chooses, he or she should ensure that all the nutritional requirements are met. The best way to know whether you are overfeeding or underfeeding your GSP dog is to take it to the vet to be informed about its weight and health. However, you can also tell by checking the physique of your pet. If you can see your GSP’s ribs, chances are they are being underfed. If the pet parent cannot feel the ribs of the dog under the coat, then chances are that it is being overfed.
When you get a German Shorthaired Pointer from a responsible breeder, chances are that you will want to switch to another quality of food than the one it was previous feeding on. Gradually do this by mixing small portions of new food about 1/4 with 3/4 old food for the first week. During the second week, feed your dog with the same amount of the new food and old food. On the third week feed your GSP dog with 1/4 of old food and 3/4 of the new food.
During the fourth week, totally switch to new food. For dog owners who want to feed commercial dry or wet food, they should purchase food that are specifically designed for puppies, adults, and senior dogs. As rule of thumb, dog commercial food or any other food should not contain fillers, preservatives, chemicals, or additives. The dog food should also have protein listed as the first ingredient. This also applies to the snacks.
German Shorthaired Pointer Neck Size | Collar Size
A collar rests around the neck of a GSP dog. Therefore, the neck size is equivalent to the collar size. Pet parents should ensure they can insert two fingers between the neck and the collar to avoid choking the dog. The neck size | collar size of a GSP is 15 to 17 inches ( approx. 38 to 43 cm ).
German Shorthaired Pointer Colors
A GSP dog can have a dark brown coat color or light brown color referred to as liver. The permitted coat colors according to AKC are liver roan, liver and white tickled, or liver patched and white ticked. Any pooch with solid white, and any area of red, orange, black, tan, or lemon is disqualified to participate in conformation shows. Usually, the head has a solid color or nearly solid color. The body is speckled or tickled with white and liver.
German Shorthaired Pointer Allergies
A GSP is affected by various forms of allergies as discussed below:
Food allergies – Although rare, a GSP dog is also affected by food allergies that result to an immune response which is accompanied by a wide range of symptoms including skin issues as well as gastrointestinal stress. Some of the skin issues symptoms include hives, hot spots, crusting lesions, dermatitis, and pruritus. On the other hand, gastrointestinal symptoms include acute vomiting and diarrhea, loss of appetite, and weight loss. Apart from food allergies, a GSP may also be affected by food intolerance or sensitivities.
Skin allergies – German Shorthaired Pointers are predisposed to skin allergies due to food, environmental, and food allergies. Environmental allergies such as flea cause dermatitis. Flea’s saliva result to excessive itchiness underneath the tail and back legs until the skin surrounding the bite area is raw. If left unattended, it causes secondary skin infections.
Contact allergies – This inflammation affects a GSP dog once the skin comes in contact with the allergen. Some of the contact allergies that affect this breed include plastics, grooming products, carpet cleaning detergents, bed linens, latex, medication, and lawn chemicals. Commonly affected body parts include belly sides, paws, and around the muzzle.
Environmental allergies – This form of allergy is caused by various allergens including flea that result in flea allergy dermatitis. Other allergens include mites, ragweed, pollen, trees, dust and dust mites, house molds, and grass. Commonly affected body parts include paws, muzzle, groin, underarms, between the toes, and around the eyes. Symptoms of environmental allergies include nasal discharge, congestion, and itchiness of the above mentioned body parts.
German Shorthaired Pointer Skin Allergies
Genetically, GSP dogs are predisposed to skin disorders including skin allergies. This allergy is caused by various allergens including food, environmental, and contact allergens. A true food allergy cause an immune response which is accompanied by skin issues symptoms such as hives, crusting lesions, dermatitis, sores, facial swelling, and pruritus.
Environmental allergies that affect the skin include flea, dust and dust mites, grass, pollen, trees, and house molds. Flea’s saliva causes flea allergy dermatitis. It affects the back legs and underneath the tail.
Flea dermatitis causes excessive scratching and biting until the skin surrounding the bite area is raw. Environmental allergies also cause atopic dermatitis. Skin allergies manifests on various body parts including skin folds, ears, belly, feet, joints, and around the eyes. In German Shorthaired Pointers, skin allergies symptoms may start manifesting from the age of 1 to 3 years. These signs get worse with age.
German Shorthaired Pointer Ears | Cropped Ears
A GSP dog has naturally long floppy ears that never hang away from the head. The ears are not cropped unless recommended for medical purposes.
German Shorthaired Pointer Tail
A German Shorthaired Pointer that participates in AKC’s conformation shows must have a docked tail that is 40% of the natural tail. When walking the tail is held horizontally and hangs down when the dog is quiet. Its a fault for the tail to curve over the back when the dog is walking. Tail docking is now prohibited in some countries.
German Shorthaired Pointer Teeth
German Shorthaired Pointer puppies are whelped with no teeth. Deciduous teeth starts growing in from the age of 2 or 3 weeks until the dog has a total of 28 teeth. However, the teeth starts falling out from the age of 12 weeks to pave way for permanent teeth. At the age of 6 to 8 months, GSP puppies should have a total of 42 teeth.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers Hypoallergenic
No. They shed all-year round or at certain times in the year depending on whether the dog resides in warn or cold climate. Shedding allows the spread of dander and hair around the house. These dogs also have a short coat that easily weaves with the clothes, socks, or carpets. Dog’s dander, hair, saliva, mucus, and urine cause an allergic reaction in people who suffer from dog allergies.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers Aggressive
No. German Shorthaired Pointers are friendly, affectionate, willing to please, and non-aggressive dogs.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers Smart
Yes. GSP dogs are smart, willing to please, and trainable.
Are German Shorthaired Pointers Good Guard Dogs
Yes. They are vocal dogs that bark to alert the owners of intruders which makes them excellent guard dogs.
German Shorthaired Pointer Quick Facts
- They are deep-chested animals that are prone to bloat( gastric dilatation volvulus) which is a life threatening condition.
- German Shorthaired Pointers needs plenty of vigorous activity and thrives with much exercise. Failure to sufficient exercise and proper training produces a hyperactive dog.
- A German Shorthaired Pointer sheds all-year round in warm climates at certain times throughout the year.
