|
The Canine Chronicles Directory
Pointer
The Pointer is a powerful and graceful breed. His head is always carried proudly
and his face has an alert expression. The nose is a bit higher than the rest of
the muzzle and is normally the same color as the coat. They have a well-defined
stop. The ears are medium, pointed and hang straight. The teeth should meet with
a scissor-bite. The neck is long and the topline is level. The legs are straight
and the feet are oval. The tail is never docked and should taper to a point. The
coat is mostly white but may have liver, lemon, black, orange or speckled coloring.
|
|
Temperament
|
The Pointer is full of "get up and go"! They are loyal, devoted, kind and a true
friend. They are very patient with children. This clean breed is an enthusiastic
hunter but is very calm at home. They should be socialized at an early age to prevent
them from becoming timid. They can be a bit reserved with strangers. They will bark
at strange noises but are not considered a good watchdog. Show dogs make better
pets than the working breed. Their hunting instinct is just too well-developed.
The puppies of this breed begin their "pointing" as early as 8 weeks. They get along
well with other pets and are not normally dog aggressive.
|
|
Height, Weight
|
Male Height: 22-24" ; Weight: 44-66 lbs.
Female Height: 21-24" ; Weight: 44-66 lbs.
|
|
Health Problems
|
The Pointer is prone to hip dysplasia, dwarfism and thyroid problems.
|
|
Living Conditions
|
The Pointer is not made to live indoors. They are very active and need lots of acreage.
|
|
Exercise
|
This importance of exercise with this breed cannot be stressed enough. They should
not be accepted as a family pet if their exercise needs cannot be met. They have
great stamina and without enough exercise, this breed can become restless and destructive.
|
|
Life Expectancy
|
About 13-14 years
|
|
Grooming
|
The smooth, short coat of this breed is easy to care for. Brush or comb weekly to
remove dead hair and only bathe when necessary. Rubbing its coat with a towel will
keep it gleaming. Make sure they are kept warm after a shampoo to prevent chilling.
Check the pads and ears for tears. This breed is an average shedder.
|
|
Origin
|
Believe it or not, the Pointer is said to be crossed with Italian Pointer, the Foxhound,
the Bloodhound, the Greyhound, the Newfoundland, the Setter and the Bulldog. This
unbelievable mix has produced an outstanding breed. The Pointer got its name from
the motionless stance that he takes when he has found his prey. The nose is forward,
one front foot is bent and the tail is completely straight. The Pointer is famous
for his scenting abilities. He works quickly and can cover a lot of ground in a
short period of time. They work best on land and are uncomfortable in and around
water. The Pointer is recognized by the AKC and the UKC.
|
|
Group
|
AKC Sporting, UKC Gun Dog
|