Pointer

Pointer Breed Information

Learn all about Pointer dogs, read about the Pointer breed information, find out about the Pointer Breed Standard, Pointer behavior and more.

Pointer Breed Introduction

The Pointer breed is an active dog breed developed for the habit of “pointing” out hunting animals by lifting a paw and directing the head in that direction. Today, Pointers are generally thought to make good pets as well as hunting dogs.

The Pointer’s Behavior

Source: Wikipedia.

Recommended for: pet, working dog

The Pointer dog breed is a very active breed whose hunting instincts are also still active. At around two months, Pointer dogs generally start doing the characteristic “point” at an interesting (for them) smell. Pointers are known as even-tempered and alert.

Remember that breed only provides a general clue as to any individual dog’s actual behavior. Make sure to get to know dogs well before bringing them into your home.

The Pointer’s Physical Characteristics

Here are some of the characteristics of the Pointer breed as determined by the American Kennel Club’s published breed standard.

• Size: Males: 25-28 inches, 55-75 pounds; Females: 23-26 inches, 44-65 pounds
• Coat: Short, dense, smooth, shiny.
• Color: Liver, lemon, black, orange; either in combination with white or solid-colored
• Eyes: large and round
• Ears: Set at eye level, with somewhat pointed tips
• Muzzle: deep
• Nose: dark or brown in darker colored-dogs, lighter color in lighter dogs
• Tail: tapered to a fine point

The Pointer’s Origins and History

Source: Wikipedia.

Country/Region of Origin: England

Original purpose: hunting birds

Name: also called the English Pointer; “pointer” refers to the dog’s method of indicating an animal he has discovered

Historical notes: The Pointer originated in England in about the 1650s. It was the first breed developed for the purpose of finding and pointing out animals this way.