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Pointer Dog: Info, Pictures, Facts, & Traits

Written by: Dogster Team

Last Updated on February 13, 2024 by Dogster Team

pointer dog in grass

Pointer Dog: Info, Pictures, Facts, & Traits

Quick Facts

  • Weight: 44 – 75 pounds
  • Height: 23 – 28 inches

The Look of a Pointer

Pointers have lean, muscular, athletic frames covered in sleek, shiny coats that come in liver, black, yellow, or orange; either solid or with white patches. Their clean-cut heads have long muzzles and jaw-length ears. They have round, alert eyes that come in varying shades of brown depending on the coat color. Their long necks slope down to narrow shoulders, strong backs and thick tails. Overall, Pointers have a sporty yet elegant look.

Traits

  • Bold
  • Powerful
  • Intelligent
  • Resourceful
  • Resilient
  • Loyal

Ideal Human Companion

  • Families with older children
  • Active Singles
  • Outdoorsy types
  • Sporting enthusiasts
Dog english pointer with GPS collar sitting in the grass
Image Credit: Jelena Safronova, Shutterstock

What They Are Like to Live With

Pointers may be known as rustic hunters, but around the home, they are very mannerly. Protective, alert, and extremely loyal, a well-socialized Pointer will mix the best attributes of both a sporting dog and a household companion. Gentle and playful with children, Pointers also are trainable, intelligent, and tidy.

Things You Should Know

A classic sporting dog, the Pointer has energy in spades. It needs room to run, daily walks, and constructive “tasks” to keep it mentally sharp. If you’re a jogger or long-distance runner, take your Pointer along—you’ll tire out long before it does.

Pointers can live as long as 14 years. Common health issues include hip dysplasia, skin allergies, and epilepsy. Pointers are easy to groom: Brush them every few days, and check their ears regularly for infection.

Pointer History

By most accounts, the Pointer was developed in the mid-17th century by crossing various Foxhounds, Greyhounds, Setters, and Bloodhounds. The result was the first true pointer, i.e., a hunting dog that stops immediately when it spots the game and “points” in its direction.

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