Shorthaired Pointer is a hunting dog. Description, features, character, care and price of the breed

Pointing dog breeds are exactly those pets that you can take with you on a hunt to track down small animals and birds. These dogs lie down on the ground or take a stance when they see prey. Pointing dogs have been used since ancient times; they originated from ancestors from Western Europe and were used for hunting. Then the dogs lay down on the ground at the sight of the beast, and then the hunter covered it with a net.

In this article we will tell you about the most popular breeds of cop dogs, among which you will find the one that is right for you.

This subspecies of pets has the following qualities:

loyalty;
obedience;
endurance;
persistence;
savvy;
ease of training and training;
aggression towards prey.

It is interesting to know that pointing dog breeds are not only the best hunters, but also good family protectors. Therefore, with proper training, they can be used to protect homes.

Description and features

The shorthaired pointer dog is one of the oldest pointing dogs. It appeared in Germany in the second half of the 19th century. At that time, greyhounds, which were intended for killing and baiting animals, were in great demand in Europe. Therefore, the charming cop did not gain enormous popularity right away.

However, hunters of the time noted that he had first-class instincts and endurance. The main task of such a dog was and is to hunt birds. He “worked” in tandem with his owner. To get as many birds as possible, the animal found the location of the flock by smell, lay down in a shelter and waited for the owner. He, in turn, silently crept up to the birds and carefully threw a net over them.

Interesting fact! The expression “cops” first appeared in Germany. It literally means “to lie down in front of the hunted object.”

Thanks to its unique working talent, or rather the ability to silently sneak up on birds, this dog was nicknamed the “German bird dog.” His behavior was greatly influenced by the proliferation of firearms. This became the basis for expanding the working potential of the animal.

Thus, the use of a gun by a hunter led to a new style of hunting with the German pointer. The dog began to literally chase game at the armed man, and he shot it. Previously, she hid in a shelter and determined the best moment to exit.

The shorthaired pointer is the most famous dog among hunting breeds

Hunting with shorthaired pointer is productive and interesting. The dog is able to get game not only on land, but also on water. Can dive into the river for a pike or turtle. Then it will crawl ashore and shake off excess moisture. Designed for hunting birds, rabbits, rodents, wild boars, foxes and even deer.

The dog's good-natured disposition and agility made him a good companion. He is infinitely devoted to his owner, respects and loves his household. Well, he loves children. Will never hurt a child. If he hurts the shorthaired pointer, he will leave silently, but will not snap back.

This breed is full of vitality and enthusiasm! He will never get tired of a fun game; on the contrary, once he gets the taste, he will cheerfully invite everyone to join. Strongly needs sports activities. He will be happy to keep his owner company while jogging or swimming. Loves the game “fetch the stick”.

As a guard, the Shorthaired Pointer is ineffective. He is overwhelmed with kindness and love for people, he is devoid of observation. However, it may perceive small animals trying to enter its territory as potential prey. Friendly towards strangers. Often makes noise for any reason. Noisy and fussy.

History of the origin of the German Shorthaired Pointer dog breed

Hunting dogs were very popular in Europe. Researchers believe that the ancestors of shorthaired pointers were brought to Germany from the Mediterranean. Spanish Shorthair Braccos began to be crossed with local hunting breeds. The result was the Württemberg Shorthaired Pointer, popular among German hunters. She is the direct ancestor of the shorthaired pointer.

The breeders sought to obtain an ideal pointer for bird hunting, hardy, fast, and with good scent. For this purpose, pointers, hounds, foxhounds, and Dalmatians participated in the breeding of the shorthaired pointer. Already in the middle of the 19th century, a new breed was introduced. Due to the characteristics of its coat, it was called shorthaired pointer. At the same time, related breeds were bred: Drathaar, Langhaar.

The first standard was created in 1879. But only at the beginning of the 20th century the breed spread throughout the world, captivating dog breeders with its attractive appearance and working qualities. In the 1930s, Shorthaired Pointers came to the United States, where they became known as German Shorthaired Pointers.

During World War II, the dog population was greatly reduced. But already in the 60s of the 20th century, shorthaired pointers became the most popular breed among hunters all over the world. Even now they occupy 16th place in the ranking. Although modern Shorthaired Pointers primarily serve as companions, they sometimes serve in the police and rescue services.

Breed standard

The shorthaired pointer breed is medium in weight and size. Its adult representative weighs from 21 to 28 kg. The weight of the bitches is slightly less. It grows up to 58-63 cm. The dog has a rectangular, slightly elongated body. Like all cops, her stomach is tucked, and her sternum is voluminous and protruding. The back is flat, the lumbar region is pronounced, its center is convex. The animal has strong, stable legs, with well-developed thigh muscles.

His fingers are pressed tightly together, his claws are sharp and fast-growing. Shorthaired Pointer puppies are born with long, thin tails. But it is customary for them to crop this part of the body in the first months of life. It is believed that a pointing dog with a docked tail is more successful in hunting. They have very dense skin that does not fold on the body and does not form wrinkles.

The dog has a medium-sized head with an elongated muzzle. The forehead is convex. He also has a very powerful jaw, which allows him to grab game and hold it firmly. A full row of snow-white teeth. The hooked nose at the edge of the muzzle is pigmented in the main shade of the coat. Movable wide nostrils. Dense eyelids, wide eye sockets.

Most often, shorthaired pointers are born with a light brown iris. According to the standard, their pupils cannot be white or yellow. The ears of these dogs are large and long. Set high on the crown, hanging down. Regarding the dog's fur. It is rough to the touch and short in length. Reminds me of a rough brush. The shorter coat is in the head area.

Appearance of dogs of the German Shorthaired Pointer breed

The shorthaired pointer is a large dog. The height at the withers of some males reaches 66 cm, but the physique is elegant and even graceful. Despite the fact that the body is muscular and athletic, the dog looks light. And the weight of a shorthaired pointer rarely exceeds 32 kg, and females weigh 20-27 kg. Therefore, it is classified as a medium rather than large breed.

The standard provides for the following features of the Shorthaired Pointer:

elegant harmonious physique;
pronounced muscles;
short smooth coat;
long muscular legs;
dry head with long floppy ears;
stately posture;
easy free movements.

The dog's working qualities, balanced temperament, and lack of aggression are most valued. Individuals that do not pass the tests are not allowed for breeding.

Photos complement the description of the appearance:

Head

The head is wedge-shaped, dry, and proportional in size to the body. The skull is wide, rounded, the forehead is convex. The brow ridges are clearly visible, and the stop and occipital protuberance are almost invisible. The muzzle is wide, elongated, gradually tapering towards the nose. It is deep, which makes it easier for the dog to carry game.

The bridge of the nose has a small hump. The lobe is wide, black. But it can be dyed to match the color of the wool. In individuals with a predominance of white color, incomplete pigmentation is possible. The lips are dry, dark, and tightly fitting. A fold is formed at the corners of the mouth. Jaws with a scissor bite, teeth tightly closed, large.

The eyes are medium in size, set slightly askew, brown in color. The look is smart, attentive. The ears are flat, hanging, set high and wide. The size is medium, the tips are rounded, reaching the corners of the mouth. When at rest, the ears are close to the head.

Body type

The physique is harmonious, muscular, the bones are strong, but not heavy. The length of the body is slightly greater than the height at the withers. The neck is long and beautifully curved. The scruff is well defined, there is no dewlap at the throat. The chest is deep, the ribs are arched, the stomach is tucked.

The back is straight and muscular. The loin is short, the croup is wide. The tail is thick at the base and continues the line of the back. Tapers towards the tip, hangs down when calm, reaching the hock joint. It should not rise above the back or bend too much. If the dog is used for hunting, it is recommended to dock the tail at half its length, but in some countries this procedure is prohibited.

Limbs

The limbs are parallel, smooth, muscular. The shoulder blades fit tightly to the body, the elbows are located at the level of the sternum, deep under the body. The joints on the hind limbs are clearly defined. The hips are wide, the legs are long.

The paws are arched, with large claws. The fingers are gathered into a ball, the pads are hard. The movements are sweeping, light, and a proud posture is maintained.

Coat and color

The dog's skin fits tightly and does not form folds. The coat is short - up to 2 cm long, on the head - up to 1 cm. The hairs are hard, reminiscent of bristles, on the head - softer. The coat evenly covers the entire body, lies tightly, smooth and shiny. This is the main difference from its related breed, the Drathaar.

The standard allows several colors. They are usually mottled in color with a black, gray or chocolate tint. The brown shorthaired pointer can be solid, gray, white or gray spotted. With a speckled color, the head is chocolate, large dark spots on the body. Solid brown or piebald colors are acceptable.

The same color options with black. A pure white shorthaired pointer is not recognized as a purebred shorthaired pointer; it must have chocolate or black spots and spots. German breeders prefer darker browns, contrasting colors, as such dogs are more noticeable when hunting.

Photos of shorthaired pointers of different colors:

Disqualifying faults

The standard for this breed has been revised many times; the version from 2001 is currently in effect. He describes in detail what a shorthaired pointer should look like. Any deviations from the standard are unacceptable. Dogs with the following defects and defects in appearance are not allowed for exhibitions and breeding:

malocclusion;
short or pointed muzzle;
incomplete dental formula;
fleshy lips;
light eyes;
short or narrowly set ears;
pronounced stop;
wavy coat;
pendant around the neck;
hunched back;
incorrect placement of limbs;
curving tail;
ambling or clumsiness in movements.

Kinds

The shorthaired pointer is a hunting breed that has been standardized as a separate breed. It is not divided into subtypes. However, breeders took care to produce several colors of such dogs, they are:

— Black Shorthaired Pointer

— Brown shorthaired pointer

— Spotted (brown and white) shorthaired pointer

The last variety is considered the most popular.

Interesting ! Breeders of this breed claim that if yellow markings are visible on the body of an individual, it will become excellent at finding game based on its bloody trail.

Possible diseases

The described breed is susceptible to all the diseases of other tailed hunters: parasitic, infectious, non-contagious. For example, ticks are dangerous for them due to the risk of contracting piroplasmosis. The disease is very serious, the circulatory system suffers, and the animal may die.

Allergies, harmful bacteria in the body and even banal melancholy can provoke such a common problem now as licked granuloma (it is also called polyducha). This is when some place on the body licks to the point of an ulcer on the skin. Recently, breeders have also noted that German Pointers often get sick:

melanoma;
turn of the century;
otitis;
hereditary blood diseases;
hypothyroidism;
epilepsy.

In order to understand in time that your pet is unwell and needs help, you need to regularly visit the veterinarian for examination.

Character

For many centuries, the German Shorthaired Pointer hunted terrestrial and aquatic inhabitants. He always tried to win the favor and love of his owner, living side by side with him. This practice could not but affect the character of the animal. Yes, his main passion will always be hunting, but at heart he is an affectionate and sensitive pet.

The modern representative of the breed is very friendly. People are friends and toys for him. He is ready to play with anyone who smiles at him. Having grown up in a favorable atmosphere, Shorthaired Pointers are filled with love. They are ready to share it with any person, even sad or angry.

These are quite smart dogs, accustomed to trusting their owners. They understand when they joke with them and happily respond in kind. They can imitate any emotion, even aggression. Just don’t be afraid of cute shorthaired pointers, they are absolutely harmless.

Shorthaired Pointers have a very active and restless character.

Such pets are good nannies. They treat children patiently and responsibly, love to play with them, and allow any pranks with them. But, we do not recommend that parents of small children leave them alone with a representative of the breed, as they may accidentally hurt him. In this case, the dog will silently leave the offending child and may be afraid to be alone with him in the future.

This is a very loyal dog that will not serve a second owner. If she becomes attached to a person and begins to trust him, she will never leave him. Constantly demands attention. Vulnerable and sensitive. Shorthaired Pointer females are more gentle than males. They can lie next to their household members for hours, lick them and look reverently into their eyes.

This breed does not tolerate loneliness very well. Regular contact with the owners is vital for him. It is important that they pet and talk to the pet every day. Only in this case will he feel happy.

It is extremely important for him to systematically be in nature, ideally to hunt. When a dog sees a collar or a gun, he becomes truly delighted, as he understands that these objects are associated with hunting. At this moment, he allows the owner to put on a collar with a leash so that he can take him to the forest as quickly as possible.

Advice ! If the shorthaired pointer rarely exercises or hunts, it may become skittish or joyless. Therefore, it is recommended to go with him to the stadium or to the forest as often as possible.

It should be noted that males of this breed often strive to gain the upper hand over their owner and refuse to obey his commands. That is why they should be raised correctly, and it should start early.

Such a pet requires a strong-willed owner with enormous fortitude. He will agree to follow him and will respect him. The owner of this dog also needs to be aware of his hyperenergy. He will run around the yard, play, track down insects and animals, in a word, spend his time actively.

He loves to train. Naturally intelligent, the shorthaired pointer is an excellent student. He always tries to please his owner with good behavior and obedience, so difficulties in his training arise extremely rarely.

Can a representative of the breed in question get along with other pets? It definitely can, but it should be borne in mind that he is, first of all, a hunting hunter, so he may perceive small animals, for example, rats and rabbits, as his prey.

Caring for pointing dogs

Today we will talk about a group of breeds of four-legged hunters that help their owners catch birds and other trophies. We're talking about cops. Usually, after a shot, the dog finds and brings back the shot game, since thanks to its sense of smell it acutely senses the smell of prey. In this case, the pet takes a certain stance, which, as a result of training and special selection over many generations, has already become hereditarily fixed. However, even seasoned dogs may have health problems, which it is better for owners to know about in advance.

Cops are usually of medium height, but large individuals are also found. As a rule, these dogs have a dry, strong constitution, a wedge-shaped head and hanging ears. Color and coat may vary.

Basically, cops are divided into island and continental. The first of these include several of the most common breeds of setter and pointer - English, Irish and Scottish. Of the continental ones, the shorthaired pointer, drathaar, Hungarian Vizsla and Weimaraner are more common in Russia.

In most countries, over time, preference began to be given to cops bred on the mainland. Continentals are considered to be more versatile in their hunting skills. For example, in Germany, game shooters most often get a drathaar, a shorthaired pointer, or a long-haired langhaar. These breeds work well on the blood trail, looking for wounded animals. Dogs are hardy and treat their owners with great love.

Each of the above breeds has its own working style. For example, island cops are characterized by high search speed and long-range upper sense. Thanks to this, dogs operate effectively in large spaces.

Continental ones use top and bottom flair and work well in difficult conditions. Can be used when hunting waterfowl, swamp-meadow, forest and field game, as well as animals.

In most of these dogs, giving prey to the owner is an innate quality. Now let’s talk separately about the most common breeds of cops in Russia and about the diseases to which they are predisposed.

English pointer

The dog was so named for its peculiar behavior when hunting. Raising his paw and tail, the dog closely watches the prey, flaring his nostrils and raising his head up. It is not at all difficult for the owner of the animal to see the game that the pet is pointing at.

The Pointer is an intelligent, loyal and balanced friend. He gets along well with children and other dogs. But you should not keep birds nearby, since for him this is, first of all, prey. Also remember that due to its highly developed hunting instinct, the Pointer will chase any animal that runs away from it.

You should know that this breed does not tolerate loneliness well. A puppy should be trained and prepared for temporary separation from its owner from early childhood. The Pointer is better suited to a spacious house with a large plot of land.

The dog needs significant physical activity. You need to walk your pet at least two hours a day. At the same time, he should have the opportunity to run, for example, behind a bicycle. Some Pointers love to swim. Lack of exercise can lead to restless and even destructive behavior in your dog.

Caring for representatives of this breed is simple. It is enough to clean it once a week with a stiff brush. This procedure allows you to remove dead hair and massage the dog’s skin. You can wash your pet twice a year. The Pointer's claws need to be trimmed periodically. And about every two weeks, clean large floppy ears.

This breed is prone to skin diseases, so it is necessary to regularly examine your pet. At the slightest suspicion, it is best to immediately contact a specialist. It is also important to remember that the Pointer has very sensitive skin and may experience allergic reactions to flea and tick products.

Additionally, these dogs are prone to arthritis, demodicosis, hip dysplasia, epilepsy, neuromuscular atrophy, pannus (chronic superficial keratitis), thyroid problems, umbilical hernia, dwarfism, deafness, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. Pointers are also very sensitive to cold and high humidity.

Scottish Setter (Gordon)

An exceptionally self-confident dog with high intelligence. She can be both sociable and friendly, and reserved. He is great with children and can become a good friend and protector for them. In the company of other four-legged hunters, he is usually the leader.

This breed is hardy, persistent, and able to work in any terrain. However, patient training is required to obtain such results. Gordon can be kept in an apartment, but he will do better outside the city, where there is plenty of space for intense exercise. Representatives of this active breed need regular long walks.

The Scottish Setter needs to have its coat brushed regularly. The pet should be trimmed and washed periodically. It is better to use a high-quality mild shampoo and conditioner to protect the coat and give it a healthy shine.

Gordons are prone to bloat, so you shouldn't feed them just once a day. It is better to give several small portions throughout the day. In general, these are healthy dogs, but some of them are susceptible to hip dysplasia, tail deformities, and thyroid diseases. There are also vision problems, cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy.

Irish (red) setter

The calling card of the breed is its shiny long coat. The standard does not allow inclusions of black in the pet's fur coat. It is believed that the breed originated at the beginning of the 18th century, and has now become one of the most famous.

This is a friendly, temperamental, intelligent and energetic dog. The Irish Setter is well built, has an elongated body and long legs, allowing it to move quickly. Living in an apartment is contraindicated for a pet. For a full life, a dog needs space and physical activity - long walks with the opportunity to run freely.

“Irish” is best suited for active people who spend a lot of time outdoors. He loves to play, loves fetch, is intelligent, and easy to learn. Lack of exercise can have a negative impact on your dog's behavior.

The Red Setter does not tolerate rough treatment. It requires a gentle approach and the use of a reward system. Representatives of the breed are good companions for other dogs and other pets, including cats, especially if they grow up with them. “The Irishman” fits perfectly into the family and loves spending time with children. However, as a rule, these setters do not make good guards.

It is recommended to brush your pet's long fur regularly. It is recommended to wash only when necessary to preserve the natural oils that protect the coat from dust and dirt and make it waterproof. It is necessary to monitor the condition of the claws. It is also worth trimming the hair between the toes.

Experts recommend checking your Irish Setter's floppy ears at least twice a month for any signs of infection or irritation. This is important because representatives of the breed are prone to otitis media. When bathing, you should also make sure that water does not get into your pet’s ears.

Allergic dermatitis is often detected in red setters. So it is recommended to periodically carefully examine the dog’s body in order to detect signs of skin damage in time.

In the 30s of the twentieth century, it became clear that a mistake had been made when breeding Irish setters. As a result, litters began to appear that were affected by progressive retinal atrophy. Several decades passed until experts discovered carriers of the wrong genes and saved the breed from extinction. Now this disease is rare.

However, red setters are susceptible to other serious ailments. In this list, we can separately highlight congenital idiopathic megaesophagus (enlargement of the esophagus), curvature of the tail, pyometra, volvulus, melanoma, hip dysplasia, entropion (entropion), dermatitis, generalized myelopathy, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, seborrhea, cataracts and otitis media.

English Setter (Laverack)

We are talking about a balanced, intelligent, sophisticated, elegant, affectionate and friendly dog. Representatives of the breed usually have a well-developed hunting instinct. The pet is usually obedient and willing to train, tolerant of other animals and sociable with humans. He loves to play with children.

However, when raising a dog, you should be patient. In no case should you resort to rough methods of influence, since this breed is very intelligent, loves communication, and not automatic execution of commands.

English setters can be kept both in a city apartment and in a private house. Laveracs are very active and require physical exercise. The walk should take at least one hour a day. In this case, the setter should be allowed to run to its heart's content.

The dog's long and wavy coat requires high-quality care. Otherwise, it becomes tangled and tangles form. Your pet should be brushed regularly, especially after returning from a hunt. Periodically it is recommended to trim the hair between the pads on the paws and cut under the ears and on the neck to the sternum.

It is equally important to clean your dog’s ears in a timely manner. Dirt and sulfur accumulate in them, which threatens otitis media, which can become chronic. The eyes should be washed regularly with a cotton swab dipped in warm water.

You should not overfeed your pets, as they may become obese. Dogs are also prone to hip dysplasia. The English Setter is one of the ten breeds that most often suffer from this disease. Laveracs may exhibit congenital deafness or blindness. Females experience false pregnancies. Alopecia, hemophilia A, eclampsia, generalized myopathy, progressive retinal atrophy and hypoglycemia also occur in English Setters.

German Shorthaired Pointer - Shorthaired Pointer

The breed was developed in the 19th century. To do this, experts crossed German pointers with English pointers.

As a result, we managed to breed a shorthaired pointer - a universal bloodhound with a cheerful and friendly character, which swims well, runs fast and stands up to all types of game birds and small animals.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a born hunter. Representatives of the breed are brave and hardy, and after proper training they always obey commands. They perform well when hunting in the field. Shorthaired Pointers have developed a hereditary tendency to quickly deliver game caught by the owner.

This breed simply needs physical activity and exercise. It is recommended to walk your pet for at least three hours a day. Kurzhaar simply does not know fatigue; he is overwhelmed with energy, which must be directed in the right direction. So the development and upbringing of a puppy must be done from childhood. Otherwise, the behavior of an older dog may become nervous and destructive.

Proper care

On average, Shorthaired Pointers live about 12-14 years. If possible, it is, of course, best to keep the dog in a large enclosure or fenced yard with a warm kennel. Representatives of this breed love free space where they can frolic in peace.

But in a pinch, an apartment will do for the German Shorthaired Pointer. The animal is, in principle, unpretentious in everyday life and easily adapts to new conditions.

The German Shorthaired Pointer loves children and easily obeys them. In general, this is an obedient pet, very loyal to its owners. The Shorthaired Pointer usually displays friendliness towards other dogs and cats. True, this primarily concerns those whom he knows well.

The color of the shorthaired pointer is mainly coffee with various shades and specks. Only solid white color is considered a fault. The coat should be short, thick, harsh and close-lying. With proper care it shines. Wavy hair is not acceptable. The backbone of the shorthaired pointer should be well developed, the muscles should be strong.

Caring for a pet is not very difficult. It is enough to clean it regularly with a regular stiff brush. At the same time, it is important to carefully check the dog’s paws after every hunt, training, or just a long walk. They must be dried carefully so that the German Shorthaired Pointer avoids hypothermia.

What health problems might there be?

When the shorthaired pointer is searching for game or actively running for fun, it warms up well and easily tolerates low ambient temperatures. Can withstand not too long work in cold water.

However, after completing such a bath, the dog must be thoroughly dried and covered with a blanket so that it does not catch a cold. The shorthaired pointer also needs similar care after a very long run in winter, when the pet gets all wet and is in danger of hypothermia.

Overall, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a fairly healthy breed. However, these strong, strong dogs also suffer from some ailments. Most often, shorthaired pointers are found to have hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, raw eczema, bloating, melanoma, cataracts, epilepsy, entropion of the eyelids (entropion), lick granuloma and ear diseases (otitis media, as well as various infections).

What to treat

You cannot overfeed your pet. He does not know the limits when he feasts on the offered treat, so he easily gains excess weight. Obesity especially quickly affects “room dogs” that do not have good physical activity.

The diet of the German Shorthaired Pointer should be nutritious and balanced. The menu must include meat products. But the shorthaired pointer must be protected from sausages and various sausage products. They can complicate the functioning of his liver.

It is good for your dog to try vegetables from time to time. She sometimes needs to eat boiled sea fish. You should not give your pet other food from the human table. This primarily applies to pasta, potatoes and peas. Such products should be permanently excluded from the pet’s diet.

Drathaar

A new variety of pointing dogs was bred in Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Experts crossed the Griffon Korthals with the Stichelhaar and the Poodle Pointer. This is how the drathaar gradually turned out. This noble dog belongs to the gun cops.

Drathaar is an excellent all-around hunter. Its ability to conduct a silent search is especially appreciated. The dog is suitable for various types of hunting. The four-legged human assistant is perfectly adapted to work in the field, forest and on the water, both before and after the shot. Drathaar has a good sense of smell, thanks to which he quickly searches for the necessary animals and birds.

The dog can be used when hunting waterfowl and in the field against quail. Some owners train their pets to help hunt ungulates - elk or wild boar.

Having detected its target, the drathaar takes a stance. And during the hunt for large animals, they distract their attention with loud barking. The dog can also get a shot small animal or bird from a hole, dense bushes, a body of cold water and other places where it is difficult or uncomfortable for a person to get to on his own.

Natural armor

Drathaar usually have a strong build and well-developed muscles. The dog's coat is short and very hard, lying tightly to the skin. This breed is characterized by the presence of eyebrows and a small beard.

Color may vary. There are drathaars with brown or black wool with gray hair. However, stains are acceptable. Sometimes there are completely “gray” dogs. In some representatives of the breed, the brown color is complemented by a white mark on the chest.

The coarse fur protects the drathaar almost like armor. Dogs can push through dense thickets of bushes or trees without feeling pain. In addition, the dense undercoat of four-legged hunters is impermeable to water. Therefore, weather conditions do not prevent them from finding game.

Watchman and protector

Like other German cops, shorthaired pointers and drathaars have enormous vitality. These loyal dogs adore their owner and become very attached to him. Pets get very bored when alone. It is better to constantly keep them busy with something and not leave them to their own devices for a long time. This way you can avoid unpleasant surprises.

Drathaars love long active walks with their owner. The owner of the animal can go jogging or cycling in the warm season. Or even swim with your pet. And you need to remember that without sufficient physical activity, the animal’s behavior can deteriorate.

Representatives of this breed are usually intelligent and quick-witted. But during training, a person must show all his patience and perseverance. If desired, you can raise not only a good hunting dog from a drathaar, but also a wonderful companion. The pet is capable of doing almost everything - from any circus performances and various fun activities with children (including even football!) to defending the territory.

Drathaar differs from other cops in that he has developed qualities as a guard. Therefore, it can perform guard functions and protect the owner from almost any danger. Dogs strive to control their territory. They are wary of strangers. They may show hostility towards other pets if they are “jealous” of their owner.

Hygiene standards

In general, the drathaar is an unpretentious animal that can be kept in an apartment. But it is preferable, of course, to place him in the yard if the appropriate conditions exist. The dog will quickly grow a thicker undercoat. An almost ideal option would be to place the drathaar in a house near a lake or some other body of water.

Caring for a pet is easy. It is necessary to comb the coat 2-3 times a week with a special stiff brush and pluck during the molting period. The animal should be washed only in exceptional cases with a special shampoo. After the hunt, you need to examine the dog's ears and paw pads. And, of course, carry out generally accepted hygiene procedures.

On average, drathaars live 12-15 years. It is better to purchase a puppy at the age of 3-3.5 months.

Healthy eating

Adult dogs eat almost everything. Some owners treat their pets only with dry food. And others prefer to give their pets homemade products - for example, porridge with meat products or vegetables.

In any case, nutrition should be balanced and complete. The dog needs to receive vitamins, micro- and macroelements, otherwise its metabolism may be disrupted. At the same time, drathaars should not eat chocolate, spicy, fatty, smoked and salty foods. It is also prohibited to overfeed the animal!

In principle, representatives of this breed are predisposed to almost the same diseases as shorthaired pointers. We are talking about hip dysplasia, hypothyroidism, melanoma, bloating, raw eczema, aortic stenosis, otitis media, diabetes, progressive retinal atrophy, lick granuloma, interdigital dermatitis, cataracts, von Willebrand disease (blood clotting disorder) and entropion ).

If you follow all the rules for keeping and caring for the drathaar, then it will turn out to be a reliable hunter, assistant, guard and companion! In general, you will never be bored with this dog!

Weimar pointer

This is a gun dog with a long history. The breed was bred at the beginning of the 19th century in the vicinity of the city of Weimar in eastern Germany and was named after its “small homeland”. Occasionally, these four-legged hunters are called “silver ghosts” due to their special appearance. The dogs are also sometimes called Weimaraners.

We are talking about a universal breed with excellent working qualities. The Weimar Pointer is capable of finding and raising large animals. When a bird is detected, the dog makes a stance. And she is ready to dive even into cool water for a downed duck.

In addition to hunting, the Weimaraner can be used for other tasks. For example, perform guard duty, act together with rescuers and law enforcement officers.

Representatives of the breed are distinguished by their agility and speed and require regular exercise. Many Weimaraner owners who want to channel their pets' energy in the right direction go with them to various sports competitions. These cops enjoy coursing (chasing a mechanical hare), agility (going through an obstacle course) and playing with frisbees (flying discs).

Ideally, the dog should be kept in a country house so that it can spend a lot of time both outdoors and in a cozy room. Your pet would benefit from a large fenced yard where he can run freely. However, in cold weather, the Weimaraner requires a warm room to sleep at night.

In extreme cases, a cop can exist in an urban environment. But here you need to carefully ensure that the dog does not suffer due to its hunting instinct (for example, it does not rush after a car or motorcycle on a busy street) and does not cause trouble to the owner by trying to chase other pets. In crowded places and near roads, it is better not to let the Weimaraner off the leash.

Proper training

Representatives of this breed are very loyal to their owner, intelligent, quick-witted and friendly, but can also be stubborn. They learn well and easily learn commands. But during the training process, the Weimaraner should not be subjected to physical punishment. Otherwise the dog may become distrustful. It is best to use the carrot method - that is, encourage your pet in every possible way. Praise him for his successes and reward him with treats.

Weimar cops prefer to always be with their owner. Dogs of this breed cannot stand being alone. So the pet owner needs to be proactive. It is necessary to subject your pet to intensive training and powerful physical activity every day. If you do not train your Weimaraner regularly, he may develop incorrect behavior patterns. It is believed that representatives of this breed are prone to excessive barking. This is especially evident when the owner lacks attention.

The Weimaraner loves long hikes and travel, and loves games, including with a ball. Your pet should be included in all family activities. If the dog is not given enough attention, it will be very bored and even suffer. Against such a psychological background, her character may deteriorate.

However, with proper training, dogs of this breed do not show aggression at all. But if necessary, they are always ready to protect their owner and family members, especially children. It is only recommended to adapt your pet to life among people from a very early age. The Weimaraner gets along well with other dogs. But attitudes towards cats can be different.

What kind of care is needed

Weimar Pointers tend to be large to medium sized. The ears are usually wide, very long and drooping. The coat is short and harsh, but feels smooth to the touch. The color is mainly silver-gray, although variations are possible. There is also a variety of Weimaraner with long hair that grows up to 3-5 centimeters.

These cops are fairly easy to care for. Short-haired dogs must be brushed periodically (at least once a week) with a rubber brush or a special glove. During this procedure, dead hair is removed. You should wash your pet only when necessary.

Weimaraners of the long-haired type need to be combed out every two to three days. It is recommended to clean your ears weekly. You can wash it at different intervals, depending on how dirty the wool is. In addition, the owner must monitor the condition of the pet’s claws and teeth and check its paws after exercise.

The Weimar Pointer breed has a predisposition to hip dysplasia. These dogs are also prone to hernia, bloating, degenerative myelopathy, lipoma, demodicosis, fibrosarcoma, and skin diseases such as interdigital dermatitis and melanoma. Possible problems with the eyes - corneal dystrophy, entropion (entropion), distichiasis (extra eyelashes). Puppies are sometimes born with signs of cryptorchidism.

Feeding and attention

But most of the time, Weimaraners are healthy and cheerful dogs. Proper nutrition for them needs to be selected from a very young age. Then your pet will always feel good. It will be filled with energy. The diet should be balanced, containing proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and trace elements. The animal can be given meat, cottage cheese, cheese, cereals, herbs, vegetables, and offal. Due to the tendency to bloat, it is advisable to feed an adult dog in small portions, at least twice a day.

In general, the Weimar Pointer is a beautiful, graceful animal and a wonderful companion. As you already understand, the most important problem associated with its maintenance is the need to find time and pay attention to the pet. You need to take care of the dog’s physical fitness and psychological state. She must be constantly with the person in order to maintain normal emotional health.

Therefore, before adopting a puppy of this breed, it is advisable to evaluate your capabilities. If you are an active person and can provide your dog with everything it needs, you will never regret adopting it. Give your pet a little care, warmth and kindness, and there will always be an affectionate and devoted friend next to you!

Hungarian Vizsla

The breed is considered one of the most gifted and intelligent. According to researchers, the ancestors of the modern Vizsla appeared among the Magyars back in the Middle Ages. Over time, they have been crossed with Hungarian hunting dogs, English and German pointers and hounds. Some scientists believe that the Vizsla also has the blood of the Arabian hound Sluga in its veins.

The breed was finally formed closer to the 18th century. In Hungary, these dogs were favorites for the nobility and hunting assistants. In the 20th century, during the turbulent periods during and immediately after the world wars, the Vizsla twice came close to extinction. But the breed was saved.

Subsequently, these cops began to be exported to other European countries and the United States. The dogs also reached Russia, where they quickly gained popularity among hunters.

From the Hungarian language, the word “vizsla” is translated roughly as “to find” and “to search.” Representatives of the breed have an excellent sense of smell. They work very quickly on the trail and detect prey. They quickly find holes.

The Vizsla is an excellent hunter's assistant. She has decent endurance and the ability to change the direction of her movement while jumping. The dog stands perfectly and adapts to any terrain and difficult weather conditions.

The pet's coat is usually short and lies close to the body. Thanks to this, he swims well and happily helps hunt waterfowl, finding and bringing it to his owner.

golden dog

In general, there are two varieties of the breed - with short hair and with hard hair. The first type appeared earlier. Based on its crossing with the German Wirehaired Pointer, a second variant of the Vizsla was developed. This happened approximately in the 30s of the twentieth century. In the new variety, the fur has become harsher to the touch and longer, not very close to the body.

The main color of the Hungarian pointer is reddish-golden. In this case, various shades are possible. Thanks to this color, it was nicknamed the “golden” hunting dog.

Most often, the Vizsla is an elegant animal with an aristocratic appearance. The size is medium and the build is muscular. Dogs usually have a strong back, powerful limbs and a broad chest.

The shape of the muzzle is rectangular. Ears - hanging, low set. A distinctive feature of this breed is the red nose and brown eyes. Some experts believe that the darker the shade of the iris, the better.

The color of the Vizsla's paw pads and nose should match the color of the coat. This helps distinguish the Hungarian Pointer from other similar breeds of dogs. For example, from the Rhodesian Ridgeback, whose paw pads and nose are black.

Training and education

The Hungarian Pointer is an extremely energetic dog. She needs outdoor games, swimming and physical exercise. Jog with your pet and take part in various sports competitions. The animal's irrepressible energy must be completely wasted, otherwise it will begin to act up.

The Vizsla is a very friendly dog. This is a loyal friend and companion and enjoys playing with children. She adores her owners and is very devoted to them. If necessary, I am always ready to protect them. However, as a rule, he chooses one favorite in the family, whom he will follow on his heels and wait for his arrival home. And then lie quietly at the feet of your adored owner.

Representatives of this breed are intelligent, courageous and balanced. They are easy to train. However, just like Weimaraners, they cannot tolerate rudeness during the training process. You can achieve success only through praise and attentive attitude towards your pet.

The Vizsla is not usually aggressive towards strangers. But if necessary, it can ideally cope with the functions of a watchman. Due to their strength and trainability, Hungarian Pointers are often included in emergency rescue teams.

Taking care of your pet

It is best to keep a Vizsla in a private home with a large yard surrounded by a secure fence. But under no circumstances should you put her on a chain! This is a domestic dog that needs attention and does not like to be left alone all day. The Vizsla is a loyal friend who knows how to listen and understand his owner.

In principle, she can live in an apartment. It is believed that there are no allergens in a pet’s fur that can cause a corresponding reaction in people who are sensitive to it. But it is still advisable for the dog to spend more time outdoors.

The Hungarian pointer is unpretentious in its maintenance. If your pet is of the hard-haired type, then it needs to be brushed regularly with a stiff brush. It is recommended to repeat this procedure every two to three days.

A short-haired Vizsla only needs to be brushed once a week. Bathing should be done as needed. But preferably no more than six times a year. The owner must also monitor the condition of the pet’s claws and trim them on time.

The Hungarian pointer is also unpretentious in nutrition. She, like any other dog, regardless of breed, should always have clean drinking water in her bowl. The animal's body needs regular replenishment of energy. You should be given foods that contain protein, vitamins, macro- and microelements. The diet should contain cottage cheese, milk, meat, liver, eggs, fish, vegetables (cabbage, carrots), quinoa, porridge (oatmeal, rice).

In general, Hungarian Vizslas are fairly healthy dogs. As a rule, they do not have specific diseases. But representatives of the breed have a tendency to hip dysplasia. Skin, bone and cartilage diseases may occur. Violations in the functioning of the visual organs cannot be ruled out. There are cases of hormonal problems caused by damage to the thyroid gland.

Summing up

So, the following can be said about the group of cops as a whole: they are excellent hunters, companions and very loyal friends! They all tolerate loneliness extremely poorly and should not be left unattended for long periods of time. Dogs are very active, and they simply need sufficient exercise.

Pets are unpretentious in food and life, but do not tolerate rough treatment. They feel more comfortable in a house with a large territory. Of the possible health problems, it is worth highlighting mainly the tendency to hip dysplasia, skin and eye diseases.

The main thing is to remember that each pet may have qualities that are unique to it, since it is one and only! You will be required to show patience, due care and attention to your animal. Then you will be able to avoid many diseases and surprises in behavior. And any cop will respond to your warmth and affection with sincere love!

Elena Prokopyeva , Tomsk

Care and maintenance

It is better to live with a Shorthaired Pointer in a private house rather than in an apartment. Why? Firstly, in the yard he will find many interesting activities for himself, for example, digging in the ground or chasing cats. Secondly, on the street the dog will have round-the-clock access to fresh air. And, finally, thirdly, he will be much more comfortable there, because he is an energetic hunter.

If you still plan to live with him in an apartment, you must arrange his sleeping place. The dog will need a bedding on the floor or a large bed. Allowing her to sleep with people on the bed is not recommended. In the second case, you will have to walk the animal at least 3-4 times a day. The minimum duration of the walk is 1 hour.

Shorthaired Pointers are good-natured towards children

We advise you to always keep your pet on a leash so that he does not run off into the distance, smelling game, for example, a squirrel. When you go for a walk with your pet, do not forget to give him the opportunity to actively relax. A great option is to go jogging together. You can also throw bottles or sticks at him.

Such an animal needs to be bathed every month. Fortunately, he loves this procedure very much. It is important to ensure that soapy water does not get into his eyes. After the procedure, be sure to clean your pet’s ears and sinuses of wax. If there are yellow marks on his teeth, you can be sure that this is plaque. A toothbrush will help get rid of it.

Nutrition

An active and energetic shorthaired pointer should be fed twice a day. Three meals a day are welcome, but in this case the portions should be reduced. Such a dog should consume about 600-700 grams of food per day. It is better to give puppies natural foods, this will allow them to fully develop. Their diet should consist of:

Chicken by-products.
Fresh meat.
Dairy products.
Vegetables and fruits.

But giving sweets and smoked foods to cop kids is contraindicated. Poor nutrition at this age can cause food allergies in the future. It is better to give a mature dog dry food, about 300 grams at a time.

Between meals, he can be given a “snack”. Hunting dogs love to chew dried pig's ear. You can purchase such a product at any pet store. Be sure to change the water in your dog's bowl daily. Make sure he always has access to it.

Lifespan and reproduction

German cops live for about 13 years, of course, with good care. If you don’t vaccinate them and feed them poorly, they can serve no more than 10 years. Remember that the lifespan of a pet dog depends entirely on how well it is cared for.

A Shorthaired Pointer bitch is introduced to an adult male on the 3rd day from the start of her heat. During this period, their sexual instinct becomes more acute, so the chance of conceiving offspring is higher. If the female is pregnant, she should be given more protein (milk, cheese, cottage cheese).

By the way, her round tummy testifies to this position. He becomes like this within a week after mating. On average, pregnancy in Shorthaired Pointers lasts 65-70 days. There can be from 1 to 8 puppies in a litter, more often 4 or 6 are born. The sex of the dogs can be accurately determined after a couple of weeks.

Price

This is an elite breed of dogs from the expensive segment. Fortunately, there are her nurseries in many Russian cities, including Moscow and St. Petersburg. The cost of cops varies. It depends on their class. Individuals of the lower class are sold from 15 to 25 thousand rubles.

Dogs with an excellent pedigree are much more expensive, on average 50 thousand rubles. The price of a shorthaired pointer from hand is from 5 to 12 thousand rubles. Be sure to inspect the puppy before purchasing! He must be strong, inquisitive and agile.

In the photo there is a shorthaired pointer puppy

Advantages

Cops are very similar to hound dog breeds and are even considered their descendants. The difference between them is that cops have a very sensitive sense of smell and adopt the famous stance when detecting prey.

Their main character traits are friendliness towards people and lack of aggression towards them. All pointing dogs will hunt better alone than in a pack. Their nervous system is quite mobile, they can quickly and easily switch their attention during the hunt. Their main feature is the adoption of a stance when finding prey.

Education and training

There is no need to train a German cop to hunt foxes, birds or rabbits. He is a born hunter with corresponding instincts. But you will definitely have to train him to work in tandem with you. In order for a dog to become an efficient breadwinner, you must first teach him to trust. He will be most successful if he becomes the student of one person, preferably a professional hunter.

Initially, the dog should be taught the classical rules of behavior. She must know her own name well and always respond to it. So repeat it when she is around. The second important point - do not allow her to jump on people in a fit of joy, and it doesn’t matter who exactly, guests or household members.

If you miss this moment, she will become spoiled and decide that she can do whatever she wants. Scold a pet that jumps on a person or push him away with your hand. By the way, physical punishment against a pet is unacceptable.

Difficulty in training a shorthaired pointer may arise due to its inherent confusion. During training, the dog will become distracted by any noise or movement. The main thing is to learn to concentrate his attention on yourself. We recommend using finger snapping.

This manipulation will create a sound that the dog will pay attention to. After that, look him in the eye and repeat the command. Teaching a representative of the breed in question basic commands is very simple. Start training him at 2.5 months.

Do not allow your pet:

Sleeping with people in the same bed.
Stealing food from the table.
Tormenting objects in the house.
Relieve yourself on the carpet.
Jump on people.

A dog who does any of the above feels like he is the boss in the house and does not respect his household members. To gain his trust, scold him as soon as you catch him “in the act.”

In raising a German cop, the carrot method should also be used. The breed is in great need of regular encouragement from its owner. If you often praise him deservedly, he will be more successful and efficient.

Shorthaired Pointers have good endurance health provided they are active every day

A little history

Pointing dogs have been known for several centuries and were originally used for hunting with falcons and for tracking birds at night when it was difficult to find wounded animals. When at the beginning of the 18th century a weapon appeared that made it possible to shoot a bird in flight, hunting with cops was developed into a separate sport and acquired the forms that we still use today. The dog finds the game, lets the hunter know where it is hiding, then, on command, picks up the bird and, after a successful shot, brings the trophy into the hands of the owner. However, requirements for cops may vary in different parts of the world. For example, in Scandinavia, the dog is required to search very quickly and, when a bird is found, not to stand in a “dead” stance, but to immediately raise it. In Great Britain, the pointer must move slowly, almost next to the hunter, who is simultaneously admiring the surrounding beauty and having a leisurely conversation with another gentleman.

Photo from 1985. The first shorthaired pointers

In southern Europe, where the lands are usually densely thicket, cops are trained to work “with a report,” that is, having found a bird, the dog leaves this place, returns to the hunter and leads him to the game. This quality is highly valued among cops.

Also, in most European countries, cops prefer to work in pairs. And in North America, the dog is not required to lift the bird at all: he is ordered to remain in place, and the hunter goes and lifts the bird himself. Similarly, there are no universal rules regarding picking; in some countries, cops are not required to do so at all. For these purposes, special dogs are used - retrievers.

The cops got their name from the English words pointing dogs - “point dog” (hence the pointer breed) - because of their reaction to the close presence of game: they freeze, that is, they make a stance, stretching their whole body in the direction where it is located . The dog can move forward only at the command of the hunter. Some cops don't do the classic stance and stick to the ground.

In order for dogs to cover a large area in search, they are trained to walk in a shuttle within shot range and carefully examine all the vegetation in which game may be hiding.

Most often, with cops they hunt chickens, woodcocks and snipes, and small game - hares, foxes, badgers. Although, it turned out that these dogs also work well on larger game, they can follow the scent and are not afraid of such monsters as wild boar cleavers and even bears. In particular, this can be stated by the owners of such wonderful pointers as the German shorthaired pointer, which we use in almost all types of hunting; these dogs love and know how to work effectively on the water, and have also mastered commercial hunting no worse than huskies.

Possible diseases and methods of treating them

The shorthaired pointer in the photo is a healthy and strong dog with excellent physical characteristics. He rarely gets sick and feels unwell. However, he is prone to some genetic defects. One of them is the so-called cleft palate.

Pathology is an expansion of the palate. According to experts, the main reason a dog develops a cleft palate is improper feeding in childhood. Most often, it is possible to get rid of the pathology using the surgical method.

Also, epilepsy and food allergies are often observed in representatives of the breed in question. Each of these ailments must be treated by a veterinarian. They are also “not immune” from eye diseases, such as cataracts.

We recommend purchasing dogs from kennels rather than from private owners. Thanks to this, you will be on the safe side and will definitely become the owner of a completely healthy pet that will serve you faithfully for many years.

general information

Hunting work is the original and main purpose of pointing breeds. But recently, such dogs often become companions, and, with appropriate training, good guards. All breeds of cops in the FCI catalog are combined into the seventh group.

Exterior and character

Coping breeds are characterized by medium size and a strong muscular build; they have practically no subcutaneous fat. Also, the general external features of these dogs include the following exterior features:

elongated muzzle;
drooping ears;
smooth, streamlined body lines;
dense skin and a coat that fits it - the hair can be either short or long.

Exterior features allow the cop to work effectively both on land and in water

Hunting gun dogs have a common set of qualities, each of which is an undoubted advantage:

loyalty;
obedience;
endurance;
persistence;
savvy;
ease of training and training;
aggression towards prey.

Loyalty to the owner is the main quality for all pointing breeds

Genetically fixed features

A characteristic feature of pointing breeds is the presence of behavioral characteristics that are genetically fixed. First of all, this concerns the working qualities of the dog. Having discovered prey, all cops freeze like a sculptural statue: the nose is directed towards the game, the body is tense and motionless, the tail is extended. This stance is genetically fixed in all working breeds and is their main feature. The dogs know that they must stand still and not fuss, so as not to inadvertently get shot.

Cops are well trained in many of the intricacies of hunting. But the ability to stand in their blood is somewhere at the level of genetic memory, and dogs do not need to be taught this, as well as some other subtleties.

Most cops learn easily and with pleasure

Among the innate hunting qualities that most cops are endowed with are also the ability to retrieve game (fetching) and, of course, the ability to find it using the famous upper sense.