Good Pointer Dog

With hundreds of years of selective breeding, a pointer dog can readily assume the rigid (frozen) pointing position facing the scent of the quarry with head held erect, one foreleg held high ready for the next step and an unmoving tail. The trained pointer dog will hold the point position until it receives a release command. It is a magnificent sight to behold such devoted self-discipline.

The breeds of pointers available to American hunters reflect their European ancestry, such as the English pointer (often just called pointer because of its popularity), Belgium short-haired pointer, Spanish pointer, Italian pointer and German short-haired pointer to name just a few. Well-known breeds like the weimaraner and vizsla also belong to the pointer group of hunting dogs. Some of these dogs are pure pointers while others are suited as a combined pointer and retriever.

As a group, pointers are intelligent and loyal dogs that make wonderful family pets. In general pointers are sensitive creatures that enjoy human company and respond best to a gentle touch and training methods. The pointer dog is as much at home playing with the kids as they are out hunting in the field. Since pointers are bred for field work, they are high energy dogs that need constant exercise to appease their intelligence and energy.

Pointer breeds come in a variety of heights and weigh between 40 and 70 pounds. Pointers are muscular and feature a wide chest suitable for plowing through grassy fields. All pointers have long ears that may be rounded in most breeds. The typical pointer has a short-haired coat for gliding through field and brush but many fine pointer breeds feature a long-hair or wiry coat.

Pointers are excellent hunting dogs and family pets. If you intend to use a pointer as a hunting dog, buy the dog from a quality breeder who is experienced in producing hunting dogs.

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