🌍 Origin: Born to Point, Bred in England.
As their name may give away, the English Pointer was bred in England with the first of the breed being recorded in the mid 1600’s. A number of breeds were mixed together to create the English Pointer we know today, including the Foxhound, Greyhound, Newfoundland, Bulldog, Setter, Italian Pointer and Bloodhound.
Their name is drawn from the stance the dog takes when they spot something that gains their attention, with them appearing to point in the direction of the spot.
🎯 Purpose: Pointing in the Right Direction.
The Pointer became a popular breed among hunters in the early 1700’s. Their incredible ability to track a scent paired with their natural drive to point their humans in the right direction, made them the ideal hunting mate. They are able to track a scent and cover a lot of area in a very fast amount of time however are by no means a dog that will collect and return a kill or be willing to enter any water. Their advantage over other hunting dogs is their pointing skills and ability to flush out birds.
✂️ Coat Care: Easy and Smooth.
Grooming a Pointer is easy. They require brushing as needed to remove shedding fur and can be bathed only occasionally. Their sleek, smooth coat does not mat or tangle and repels dirt and doors effectively. They are average shedders.
👀 Appearance : Build to point and Cuddle! The English Pointer is a solid dog, with a long neck, deep muzzle, and rounded head. On average, males grow up to 62 cm and can weigh up to 30 kg, while females grow up to 60 cm.
Accepted coat colors for the breed include primarily white with:
- Liver
- Lemon
- Black
- Orange markings
These markings can be speckled, patched, or solid in colour. They can also be tri-coloured.
❤️ Temperament: Energetic, Loyal & Loving
The English Pointer is a high-energy, active, and happy dog. Hunting runs in their blood, so supervision with smaller animals is always advised. They are loyal companions to their families and can be reserved with strangers. Although not ideal guard dogs, they will bark at unknown people or noises.
They require plenty of exercise—at least two long walks daily, ideally with off-leash runs if safe. Without sufficient exercise and stimulation, they may become destructive and anxious. Socializing them from a young age helps ensure they enjoy the company of other dogs as adults. The pointing stance often begins around 8 weeks of age and continues throughout their life when they are focused.
If given enough daily exercise, they can adapt to apartment living, though they prefer a large yard to romp around in.
🩺Health: Long Life
In general, the Pointer is a healthy breed. They can be prone to thyroid issues and hip dysplasia, and cases of dwarfism have been recorded. Their deep chest places them at higher risk for bloat, so precautions should be taken around mealtimes and exercise. Their average lifespan is 13–14 years.
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Does your life include a beautiful Pointer in it?
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Written by We Love Dogs Care Team
Our passionate resort carers, Doggy Doaters, and canine specialists dedicated to providing 7-star boutique dog boarding, health care, and advice in Melbourne.
