The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is not for those faint of heart or weak in spirit! The GSP is a versatile, tireless hunter of feathered and furred game, over land or water, also used to track wounded game. An affectionate, loving, loyal family companion and bed-warmer. GSPs can be protective of their home and their humans. GSPs retain a puppy level of energy throughout their lives. A sense of humor should be a prerequisite for any future GSP owner. A GSP’s antics are often not appreciated by family members. The GSP loves to be around people assuming it has been properly socialized. The GSP can be happy in a non-hunting home. Extra effort is needed to direct their minds and boundless energy. GSPs become bored very easily if not kept busy. The breed is people oriented, sometimes to the point of being clingy. This behavior is not to be encouraged.

 

Watch this video by Dogs 101 for an intro to the German Shorthaired Pointer…

 

 

Click here to read a breeder’s comments on the 2005 Best in Show

 

You know you are ready for a GSP when…

…priority for new clothing is something brown and/or white, is wash and wear, not necessarily what is fashionable.

…car shopping involves sizing up how many dog crates can be put in a vehicle.

…you buy leather furniture or car seats not for the luxury, but rather because dog slobber/blood/etc wipes off easily.

…landscaping is done to minimize what is edible, likely to be marked or crushed.

…a “hearty” plant takes on new meaning.

…you realize having a GSP isn’t owning a pet. It is a way of life.

… you can laugh at yourself when you forget to put the garbage out of reach. Top of fridge does not always work.

…you know to move out of the way instead of expecting your dog to stop.

…you consider muddy paw prints a fashion accessory.

…you know not to take a quick trip to the park to swim, and expect your dog to come when called.

…you pray your dog obeys “drop it” when he comes bounding towards you with a skunk.

…you can laugh after your 16 in pizza was eaten only to find your dog in her timeout chair licking her lips looking guilty as ever.

…agility is your scheduled aerobics class with your GSP.

…family pictures are not taken anywhere that does not allow dogs.

…hunting with your k9 friend means more than catching anything.

…you roll a big chair up to the table, so that she can be comfortable, yet close, while you play cards with your friends.

…you look at the head in your lap at the dinner table as an automatic crumb catcher or lap warmer rather than a nuisance.

…you will call off work when they are sick because the look in their eyes says “Please don’t leave me Mommy.”

…you love getting big sloppy kisses.