General
Welcome to the GSP-site! Some information about the breed has been put together and will hopefully help you, if you think about buying a GSP, or only broadens your knowledge! As for any other animal, please act responsible when you decide to buy one. This animal is relying on you for at least a decade and you have to make sure that all members of your household agree with your idea and you will be able to spend some time every day with your dog. Make also sure, that it is taken care of the dog during your holidays. Additionally, the dog needs to be properly fed and presented at a vet once a year for the recommended shots and worming. Additional information can be obtained from a GSP Club or Society in your area or a dedicated breeder before you buy a GSP.
The strength of the GSP is his fine nose, impressive, staunch pointing, will to follow tracks, search and retrieve of game, the work on the blood track, hardness, persistence and water passion. The breed is highly intelligent and active and the dogs need regular physical as well as mental exercise. Ideal owners are hunters. Obedience training is recommended to make these dogs a pleasant companion.
History
The history of the German Shorthaired Pointer starts with the dogs which were used for hunting with nets on feathered game, and in falconry, especially in the Mediterranean countries. Via France, Spain and Flanders, the Pointers came to the German courts. The most significant quality of these dogs was their pointing proficiency. After the first double-barreled gun was made (1750), a pointing dog was required even more. Game birds on the wing were shot over the dog. That was the beginning of the transition from a pointer to a versatile gundog. Today in Germany, the German Shorthaired Pointer passes through the filter of detailed breeding and test regulations.
General Appearance and Temperament
The GSP is a noble, versatile, reliable and easy-care dog with a harmonious appearance, the conformation of which ensures strength,
persistence and speed. Upright bearing, flowing outlines, dry head, well carried tail, shining coat and far-reaching, harmonious movement, emphasise his nobility. The temperament is firm, balanced and steady, never aggressive, nervous or shy.
Height at the withers: Dogs 62 - 66 cm Bitches 58 - 63 cm
Colour: a. Liver without markings.
b. Liver with slight white markings or ticking on chest and legs.
c. Dark liver ticked, with liver head, liver patches or spots.
d. Light liver ticked with liver head, liver patches and spots, or without patches
e. White with liver head markings, liver patches or spots.
f. Black colour in the same colour patterns as the liver, or the liver ticked colours. Yellow tan markings on solid black dogs are permitted.
g. Blaze, markings on the forehead and ticked flews are generally permissible.
Lifespan: 12-14 years
