English Pointer - Origin, Characteristics and Behavior | Dogs 2024

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" The English Pointer is by far one of the best known hunting dogs and is sometimes simply called a Pointer. He is an active and dynamic dog, who will adapt very well to your company if you are active and sporty because you will help him to make the most of his qualities."

If you are considering adopting a puppy or an adult English Pointer, it is strongly recommended that you inform yourself beforehand about the care he needs, the education he should receive and the food he should receive. he must follow and the latter must always be adapted to his level of physical activity.Find out below in this AnimalPlanet breed profile all about the English Pointer, one of the most sociable and beautiful British breeds out there!

Origin

  • Europe
  • United Kingdom

FCI Nomenclature

  • Group VII

Physical Characteristics

  • Muscular
  • Lying

Size

  • Average

Height

  • 55-70

Adult Weight

  • 25-45

Life expectancy

  • 12-14

Recommended physical activity

  • High

Character

  • Balanced
  • Society
  • Smart
  • Active

Ideal for

  • Children
  • House
  • Walking
  • The hunt
  • Sports

Recommended climate

  • Temperate

Hair type

  • Short
  • Smooth
  • Hard

Origin of the English Pointer

Although it is safely accepted that the current Pointer originated in Great Britain, its history is not well known. Some authors believe that an ancient Spanish Pointer was the precursor of this breed, which itself was created thanks to different breeds of hounds, but this hypothesis has not yet been verified.

" What we know for certain is that the Pointer already existed as such in the 17th century and that, from then on, it was used to mark prey. In fact, its name comes from the English to point, which means to show or point and alludes to the characteristic behavior of these dogs when hunting. Today, the English Pointer is not only a hunting dog, but also a magnificent show dog and an excellent pet."

Characteristics of English Pointer

This dog is tall and slender and he exudes strength and agility at the same time. Just look at him to understand that he is a dynamic dog who loves intense physical activity. The Pointer's profile is gently curved because it has a strong, muscular back that is somewhat domed. In addition, his chest is wide and deep, reaching the elbows, and the ribs are well arched. The flanks are well arched, which gives even more curves to the profile of this dog.

His head is of medium width. The stop is well pronounced. Its nose is usually dark, but it can be lighter in lighter colored dogs. The muzzle is slightly concave and the jaws are strong and close together and its bite is scissor-like (the upper incisors cover the lower incisors and are in contact).

His eyes can be hazel or brown and have a benevolent expression. Its ears are medium sized, high set and slightly pointed at the tip. They fall on his cheeks.

The Pointer's tail is medium in length and the dog carries it straight across the back without curling it. In action, the dog wags its tail to both sides, never curling it upwards. Tail docking is not recommended in any way, as it is outright mutilation that will harm its ability to communicate.

The hair is smooth, straight, short, rough, shiny and well lying on the body.According to the breed standard accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the most common color combinations are: lemon and white, orange and white, liver and white, black and white. Although less common, single and tricolor dresses are also perfectly acceptable.

According to the FCI standard, the measurements of the English pointer (English pointer) are:

  • Males: between 63 and 69 cm high at the withers, weighing approximately 30 kg.
  • Females: between 61 and 66 cm in height at the withers, for a weight of around 25 kg.

English Pointer Character

The character of the English Pointer is marked, in part, by its past as a hunting dog. It is generally a very dynamic, curious and alert dog. Although it may seem paradoxical, his genetic heritage as a hunting dog also gives him an unfailing kindness! This is because they were designed as pointers, so they don't have to attack the prey, only point out where it is.

When properly socialized from an early age, they are very friendly dogs who get along well with people as well as other dogs and animals. He is generally attentive and devoted to his family. They are excellent dogs for families with children or other pets. Of course, this depends on the socialization received by the dog from an early age.

Caring for an English Pointer

The Pointer's coat is one of its finest qualities, and although it regularly sheds, twice a week brushing is enough to keep it in good condition. To do this, we recommend that you use a rubber brush, specially designed for short-haired dogs. There is also no need to wash them too frequently, as they clean up easily. A bath every two or three months is enough.

On the other hand, the physical needs of this dog are very high.We recommend 2 to 4 walks a day, trying to combine one of the outings with physical exercise. Ball games or Frisbee are usually the breed's favorite, but any other activity, such as jogging or swimming, can be enjoyed. The important thing is to ensure that the dog gets exercise almost every day. Especially if the English Pointer is physically active, it should be provided with a high quality diet designed for the extra energy it needs.

Although it is strongly recommended to raise him in a house with a garden, we must not forget that this does not replace the walks as well as the fact that the dog must live outside. As this is a particularly sociable dog, being confined outside can lead to behavioral problems.

Training and education of the English Pointer

Socialization is one of the most important stages in a puppy's life.It begins around the age of 3 weeks and ends around the age of 3 months. At this stage, we must introduce him to all kinds of people, dogs, environments and objects so that in adulthood he does not develop irrational fear. When properly socialized from a young age, they are extremely friendly dogs, getting along well with people as well as other dogs and animals. It is therefore an excellent dog for families with children or pets. However, as it is a hunting dog, care should be taken when introducing it to small adult pets, such as rabbits and hamsters.

In addition to socialization, the puppy must be taught to bite correctly, to relieve himself in the street (once all his vaccines are up to date) and we will start to stimulate him with games and activities of all kinds, always without forcing or obliging him.

Once the English Pointer has reached his teenage years, dog training can begin.We recommend always working on positive education. Although it is a dog that learns quickly, it is also true that it tends to be easily distracted, which is why we recommend several sessions a day of short duration, between 5 and 15 minutes maximum.

We will teach them basic obedience orders, essential for their safety, but we can also take advantage of their great ability to smell to practice olfactory games, tracking exercises, canine skills or agility. Everything we practice with the dog will improve our bond and stimulate his mind, promoting better learning and the mental well-being he needs.

The breed's most common behavioral problems are destructiveness, hyperactivity, and excessive vocalization, usually related to lack of physical exercise and mental stimulation.

English Pointer He alth

Attention to the dog's he alth is essential to prevent and quickly detect diseases, which is why it is advisable to take him to the veterinarian at least every 6 to 12 months. The English Pointer, although a relatively he althy breed, has some hereditary diseases, some examples of which are:

  • Entropion
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Deafness
  • Atopic Dermatitis
  • Epilepsy

It is also essential to follow the dog's vaccination schedule to prevent viral diseases such as parvovirus and distemper and to follow an internal and external deworming program, essential to repel external and internal parasites such as fleas, ticks and worms. In case of emergency or abnormality, a specialist should be consulted.

The life expectancy of the English pointer is between 12 and 15 years.

Pictures of English Pointer

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