Dog breed · Sporting / Gundog
Pointer (English Pointer)
The aristocrat of gundogs — bred to range far and freeze on game. Calm and clean in the house, relentless in the field.
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Breed characteristics
- Group
- Sporting / Gundog
- Origin
- England
- Size
- Large
- Weight
- 20–30 kg
- Height
- 58–69 cm
- Lifespan
- 12–14 years
- Coat
- Short, fine, glossy coat
- Temperament
- Even-temperedDignifiedDriven outdoorsGentle at home
History
Refined in 18th-century England from Spanish pointers and foxhounds for the new sport of shooting flying birds.
Appearance
Lean, muscular, aristocratic dog with a distinctive dished face and the classic frozen pointing stance.
Exercise and activity
Two hours or more daily including free running; a natural athlete.
Care and grooming
Minimal grooming; thin coat needs a jacket in cold, wet weather.
Health considerations
- Generally robust
- Hip dysplasia
- Bloat (GDV)
- Hypothyroidism
Honest challenges
Before choosing a Pointer (English Pointer)
- Treat the breed profile as a starting point, not a guarantee of temperament. Meet the individual and discuss its history, needs and behaviour with the rescue or responsible breeder.
- Check your routine can support the activity described here: Two hours or more daily including free running; a natural athlete. Allow for age, weather, health and recovery rather than imposing a fixed target.
- Ask the breeder or rescue and your vet about problems reported in this breed (such as Hip dysplasia, Bloat (GDV), Hypothyroidism), which of them have recognised screening tests, and the parents' results where relevant. Screening reduces some uncertainty but cannot promise a healthy lifetime. Bloat has no screening test: learn its emergency signs and ask about prevention.
- Plan grooming, veterinary costs and care during holidays. Children and other pets still need careful introductions and supervision whatever a breed's typical rating.
Educational reference, not an individual diagnosis or a verified professional review. Read our editorial policy.
Sources on this topic
Pages on this specific subject from recognised organisations. They are cited for further reading and do not mean the organisation has reviewed this page.
- Pointer Dog Breed Information — American Kennel Club
Guidance libraries and further reading
These organisations publish relevant guidance. Their links are further reading, not evidence that they have reviewed this page.
- RSPCA — animal care and welfare advice across species
- PDSA — veterinary charity pet health advice
- Dogs Trust — dog care, behaviour and welfare advice