The pros and cons of a German Shorthaired Pointer dog?

tigress: What are the pros and cons of a German Shorthaired Pointer?
I am very very active, I do not hunt though and I was planning on getting one but I don't know. They do seem like they are very handsome dogs and it would not be at all bored living with someone like me. But I don't know if I should get one or not.

Answers and Views:

Answer by bittyb
It'll need lots of exercises. My lab/pointer needs about two hours a day, but he can go for HOURS – that's just the bare minimum to keep him from running around the house like a psycho-pup by evening.

Photo Credit: majohn67/Pixabay

Some of the hunting lines are not bred to socialize well with children or other dogs, but I think that may be more an indication of the backyard breeder. Something to watch out for though, if you don't know a reputable breeder and are stuck finding one on your own.

They're medium to large size dog. I would never recommend one for an apartment. They are not couch potatoes. I've only known a few, but I have never met a submissive pointer of any variety yet. Hunting dogs tend to be pack-oriented and therefore may challenge your authority/position on a regular basis. The idea is that *someone* must lead, so if you won't lead then they will. It's a compulsion. So make sure you can be the alpha and lead your pack. I find it very rewarding, personally, but I know many people who prefer a lap dog to cuddle and love.

Answer by BulliesRock
If you are VERY active, then that is a pro. They need a good amount of exercise. That could also be a con (if you are a couch potato or only like one walk a day). Separation anxiety can be brutal in a pointer because they can be extremely destructive. It's a smart breed that needs an owner willing to put in the time to train and exercise it.

• How much dry food to feed an adult German Shorthaired pointer?
• The pros and cons of a German Shorthaired Pointer dog?
• How do you exercise your German Shorthaired Pointer?
• The difference between an English Pointer and a GSH Pointer?

Answer by JSR*558
Are you planning to get one? Do you hunt? They are hunting dogs. That's what they were bred to do.

That's not a breed that will be real happy lying around the house all day or, worse … tied up in the backyard.
The GSP is a high-energy sporting breed. It has a rather "intense" temperament (which could be good or bad, depending on how that temperament and energy are channeled).
Like any high-energy breed, it can (and WILL) be destructive if it isn't given plenty of exercises and a job to do.

They're not the most "pet-like" breed … if you have young kids, you might want to rethink it. They won't tolerate rough and clumsy handling by youngsters. Not to say they can't be great for the right owners … they certainly CAN … but they're not really a "breed of choice" for a family pet.

They have a short, easy-care coat, but they DO shed.
They need to be trained and socialized, as does any young dog.
Know better? Give your own answer to this question!