Alternative Name: English Pointer
Country of Origin: Great Britain
History: The pointer was developed in the late seventeenth century in England to be used when hunting with the slow-loading flintlock gun. Hunters needed a dog that could stay on point until they were ready to shoot. It is unclear whether the pointer was originally developed in Spain, Britain, or somewhere else. Some believe it was developed at the same time in several countries. The breed is probably a cross of foxhounds, greyhounds, and bloodhounds. The working ability rather than looks are most important to fanciers.
Physical Description: The pointer is a large, muscular, square-shaped dog. The long, well chiseled head is rectangular with a long muzzle that is equal in length to the width of the skull. There is a brown or black nose (it can be lighter in lighter colored dogs) and drop ears. The tail is naturally short and carried slightly higher than the topline. The short, smooth coat is liver, lemon, black, orange, or a combination of colors.
Height: 23 to 28 inches
Weight: 45 to 75 pounds
Temperament: It is a friendly, even-tempered, hardworking, and enthusiastic. It gets along well with children and other dogs but likes to run and has a strong prey drive.
Activity Level: High
Best Owner: It does best in an active rural home where it is allowed to participate in a job or activity.
Special Needs: Exercise, fenced yard, job or activity, leashed
Possible Health Concerns: deafness, eye disorders
