This handsome hunter owes its popularity to its versatility, power, and enthusiasm in the field and beyond. They are an all-purpose gun dog, able to trail, point and retrieve, and are proficient hunters of all manner of game. While their origins are somewhat hazy, it is generally agreed that they came about through crosses of the German Bird Dog with various local scent hounds and track and trail dogs. Later, the English Pointer was introduced to add cleaner lines, aristocratic looks, and stable temperament. German Shorthaired Pointers are a great addition to active family that appreciates their intelligence, joviality, and high energy levels. They are an alert, vocal breed that makes a good watch dog and are quite adaptable to various living situations as long as their great need for daily exercise is met. Their short coats shed but grooming needs are minimal.
Each AKC approved purebred breed has its own national club. The mission of these “parent breed clubs” is to improve and preserve a particular breed by advancing knowledge about its history, its health and care requirements. They also work to assure that the breed’s form and function remain true to its historical physical type and character: A Dalmatian, for instance, should be athletic and have a natural affinity for working with horses. A Fox Terrier should have the right body size and shape, and a drive to go after vermin.
Pet owners, breeders, trainers, veterinarians, and others with a special love for a breed become members of the parent breed club to meet like-minded enthusiasts and to support the club’s mission. The nation’s top breed experts are members of the parent club.
The national parent breed club is the first and best place to go to learn about a breed or find a knowledgeable, experienced breeder.
Discover Animals is a web-based educational resource offered by the NAIA
