The English Pointer is by far one of the best known hunting dogs, also simply called the "pointer". It is an active and dynamic dog, who will adapt wonderfully if he has an active and sporty owner at his side, who will help him get the most out of its qualities.
If you are considering adopting a puppy or adult English Pointer dog, it is highly recommended to inform you in advance about the care it needs, the training it must receive or the food to be provided, always in relation to its level of physical activity. Find out below in this breed file on our site all about the English pointer dog, one of the most sociable and proactive British breeds in existence:
Origin of the English pointer
Although it is accepted that the current pointer is from Great Britain, his history is little known. Some authors believe that an ancient Spanish pointer was the precursor of this breed, for whose creation different breeds of hounds were also used, but there are no precise data to give more support this hypothesis.
What is known for sure is that the pointer already existed as such in the 17th century and that since then it has been used to signal prey. Precisely, its name comes from the English "to point", which means to show or point and which alludes to the characteristic behavior of these dogs during the hunt. Today the pointer is not only a hunting dog, but also a beautiful show dog and an excellent pet in many homes.
Characteristics of the English pointer
This dog is tall and slender, giving the right impression of strength and agility at the same time. Just by looking at it one can tell that this is a dynamic dog that enjoys intense physical activity. The profile of the pointer presents delicate curves, due to the fact that its strong and muscular back is somewhat vaulted. In addition, the chest is broad and deep, reaching the elbows, and the ribs are well sprung. The flanks are well raised, giving even more curves to the profile of this dog.
The head is of medium width. It presents a well-pronounced naso-frontal depression (stop). The nose is usually dark, but can be lighter in light-colored dogs. The snout is slightly concave and the jaws are strong and close in scissors (upper incisors cover the lower ones, being in close contact).
The eyes can be hazel or brown and have a kind expression. The ears are medium, set high and slightly pointed at the end. They hang over the cheeks.
The tail of the pointer is of medium length and the dog carries it level with the back without curving it. During the action, the dog wags its tail to both sides, without curling it up. Its amputation is not recommended in any case, since it loses a communication tool to express itself before other dogs and it is a mutilation, for this reason it is prohibited in many countries.
The hair is smooth, straight, short, hard, shiny and close to the body. According to the breed standard accepted by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the most common color combinations are: lemon and white, orange and white, liver and white, black and white. Although less common, single color and tricolor coats are also perfectly accepted.
According to the FCI standard, the measurements of the English Pointer are:
- Machos: between 63 and 69 cm tall at the withers, weighing about 30 kilograms.
- Females: between 61 and 66 cm tall at the withers, weighing about 25 kilograms.
English pointer character
The character of the English Pointer is marked, in part, by its past as a hunting dog. They tend to be very dynamic, curious and alert Although it may seem paradoxical, their genetic heritage as hunting dogs has also given them kindness and low aggressiveness. This is because they were developed as "pointing" dogs, so they don't have to attack the prey, just indicate where it is.
When they have been properly socialized from a young age, they are very friendly dogs, getting along well with people as well as with other dogs and other animals. They are usually attentive and devoted to their family. In this case, they are excellent dogs for families with children or with other pets. Of course, this depends on the correct socialization of dogs at an early age.
English Pointer Care
The pointer's coat is one of its most attractive qualities since, although they shed regularly, brushing twice a day will suffice. week to keep hair he althy. We recommend using a rubber brush, specifically for short-haired dogs. It is also not necessary to bathe them frequently, since they are easily kept clean. Taking a bath every two or three months will suffice.
In contrast, this dog's physical needs are very high. It is recommended to take between 2 and 4 daily walks, trying to combine one of the outings with physical exerciseBall or fresbee games are usually the favorites of the breed, but we can practice any other activity, from jogging to swimming pool. The important thing is to make sure that the dog is exercised almost daily. Especially if he develops intense physical activity, it will be appropriate to provide the English Pointer with a superior diet designed for this extra energy that he requires.
Although it is highly recommended to keep it in houses with a garden, we must remember that it is not a substitute for walking and that the dog should not live outside. Being a particularly sociable dog, being confined outside can favor the appearance of behavior problems.
English Pointer Education
Socialization is one of the most important stages in a puppy's life. It begins around 3 weeks of life and ends around 3 months. At this stage we must introduce him to all kinds of people, dogs, environments and objects so that in his adult stage he knows how to relate correctly and does not acquire fears. When they have been properly socialized from a young age, they are extremely friendlydogs, getting along well with people as well as with other dogs and other animals. In this case, they are excellent dogs for families with children or with pets. Of course, being a hunting dog we must be careful when presenting small pets in their adult stage, such as rabbits and hamsters.
Apart from socialization, we must teach the puppy to bite correctly, to relieve himself in the street (once he has all his vaccinations up to date) and we will begin to stimulate him with games and activities of all kinds, always without overwhelming or forcing him.
Once they are young, we can start the English Pointer in dog training We always recommend working on positive training. Although they are dogs that learn quickly, it is also true that they tend to be easily distracted, so we recommend doing several short sessions a day, between 5 and 15 minutes maximum.
We will teach him the basic obedience commands, essential for his safety, but we can also take advantage of his great olfactory capacity to practice smell games, discrimination exercises, canine skills or agility. Everything we practice with the dog will improve our bond and stimulate his mind, favoring better learning and the mental well-being that it requires.
The most frequent behavioral problems of the breed are destructiveness, hyperactivity and excessive vocalization, generally related to a lack of physical exercise and mental stimulation.
English Pointer He alth
Paying attention to the dog's he alth is essential to prevent and detect diseases quickly, so it is recommended visit the vet every 6 o 12 months maximum. The English Pointer, despite being a relatively he althy breed, has certain hereditary diseases, some of which are:
- Entorpion
- Hip dysplasia
- Deafness
- Atopic dermatitis
- Epilepsy
It will also be essential to follow the dog's vaccination schedule to prevent viral diseases such as parvovirus and distemper or to follow a deworming routine internal and external, essential to repel external and internal parasites such as fleas, ticks and worms. In the event of any emergency or anomaly, a specialist should be consulted.
The life expectancy of the English Pointer is between 12 and 15 years.
