German Shorthaired Pointer info needed

    • Gold Top Dog

    German Shorthaired Pointer info needed

    Been looking at the local SPCA and they have a German Shorthaired Pointer there.  Very nice dog, quiet and sweet, white and liver spots.

    Can someone give me some info on them?  I've read that they very energetic.  How do they do with morning and afternoon walks and a couple days of romping in a large field?  How are they inside?

    Any other info would be great.  Thanks!
    • Gold Top Dog
    I should also add that I have a small house with a small fenced in yard where it could romp around.
    • Gold Top Dog
    Hi, I have a 10 month old purebred GSP who we adopted at 4 months old. Energetic does not even begin to describe her. I can't speak for the breed as every dog's personality is different, but I personally will probably never purposely look for another GSP. She's very intelligent, but she uses it ALL for evil. She's got every single bad trait that GSPs are known to have: Obessive Compulsiveness, Separation Anxiety, constant barking, endless energy, stubbornness...etc. I think they deserve a chance as much as the next dog, but unless you have a couple of hours each day to exercise a dog (running, jogging, etc), you might want to think about a more laid back breed. I've always had Labs (who are "high energy") and they don't hold a candle to the GSP. She's destructive and generally miserable to live with...we're just trying to wait out the puppy years. I mean, we love the goofball, but I wish I knew then what I know now [;)]
    • Gold Top Dog
    Cool, thanks for the info.  Perhaps I'll take the one at the SPCA for a walk and see how it goes.
    • Bronze
    Depends upon the age and physical health of the animal.  They might well be somewhat depressed being in a shelter situation and not exhibiting their usual level of energy.  For the most part Pointers do have alot of energy and are happiest when they have tasks to do.  If you really like walking ( more than once around the block) you might be able to burn some of that energy.  If the dog is older, it might be ready to settle into retirement, but by and large, sporting dogs wind up in shelters and adoption agencies, because their owners were unprepared to keep up with high energy levels, and the dogs frustration usually manifested itself in some negative behaviors like destructive chewing, incessant barking, ripping through the house upsetting things and people. etc.   Find out all the history you possibly can on the dog, and it might be an OK fit.  Also see if there are other pointer owners in your area, where you could perhaps meet with them to get tips on keeping the dog as a pleasant companion
    • Gold Top Dog
    Stopped by the SPCA today, little guy had an adoption pending sign on his gate.  I'm outta luck, again.
    • Gold Top Dog
    I am glad that dog found a home, but I just want to add that I love my gsp more than I could have ever imagined.  She is probably 7 years old, but everyone who meets her is convinced that she is still a puppy.  Yes, she is full of energy, but that is what I was looking for.  She also loves to cuddle at night, rarely barks, and is great around everyone she meets so she is welcome almost everywhere.  We walk a couple hours per day, weather permitting.  We also find time for games and swimming and visits to the park.
    A gsp is not a dog that I would recomend to many people.  They do require a lot of time and a fenced in yard will not be enough for exercise, unless you are running around with them.  I would love a fence the to keep her away from the rabbits next door.  My dog, like most pointers has a really high prey drive.
    • Gold Top Dog
    Hum well my dog had his moments as a pup that I thought were going to drive me insane.  [:@]  However for the most part he was and is very well behaved.  He was quick to learn new things and loves to work.  He is calm in the house and a rocket outside.  The most important thing is exercise with this type of dog.  If you can give them some time to run and I do mean run they are the best.   A long walk or a swim is a great way to give them the exercise they need too.  I wouldn't trade my shorthair for any other dog.  Of course I knew what I was getting into.  He fits the bill just fine.  He has tons of drive, is a good watch dog,  loves to snuggle and..... is very hard headed.