The English Pointer is a beautifully strong and elegant dog, easily recognized by its poised posture, with one front leg lifted and its head confidently aimed at what it’s tracking. These dogs are incredibly athletic and move gracefully, with their heads held high and their noses actively sniffing the air, helping them to move quickly while searching for scents. Their short, thick fur comes in different colors and shines brightly, adding to their sleek appearance. When they are on point, field-type English Pointers proudly raise their tails high.
Quick Info
Size
Medium
Colours
Black, black and white, lemon, lemon and white, liver, liver and white, orange, orange and white; markings can be black, liver, self-colored, or ticked
Lifespan
12 to 17 years
Height
24 to 27 inches
Type
Sporting
Hypoallergenic
no
Weight
57 to 66 pounds
Family
Gun Dog
Personality
The English Pointer is full of energy and smarts, making it an ideal companion for those who enjoy outdoor fun and activities. Their lively nature and endless excitement mean they’re ready for a game or a lengthy jog at any moment, keeping you active and engaged. With their affectionate and dependable nature, along with a keen sense of awareness, they also serve well as protective pets.
History
The Early Pointers were developed by combining Greyhounds, Foxhounds, Bloodhounds, and older types of Spaniels. After the War of Spanish Succession in 1713, British soldiers returned to England with sturdy Spanish Pointers. These were then mixed with Italian Pointers to form the breed we know today. In the late 1800s, English Pointers arrived in America, admired for their remarkable abilities and appealing nature, quickly becoming beloved pets in the country.
Ideal Owner
The perfect person to own an English Pointer is someone who loves being active and enjoys the outdoors. This individual should have a lot of energy and like to exercise and have fun regularly. They should be excited about outdoor activities like running, hiking, or taking part in field sports, and be prepared to match the lively personality of the Pointer.
Exercise Needs
The English Pointer is, at its core, a lively and spirited dog that needs a lot of exercise every day, including plenty of chances to run freely. A healthy adult English Pointer demands a good amount of activity and will always be ready for additional playtime.
Space Requirements
The English Pointer is a dog that thrives in rural areas and requires a large living space along with plenty of outdoor area to run and have fun.
Training
The English Pointer is a smart and eager dog that loves to show off its abilities. They do best in training sessions or scent-related tasks where they can use their talents. Because they have a strong instinct to chase, it's important to teach them a solid recall command. To keep them safe while they run outside, English Pointers might need to be on a leash or in fenced areas.
Grooming
English Pointers are easy to care for when it comes to grooming because of their short and smooth fur. To keep their coat healthy and shiny, they should be brushed regularly, and they only need a bath now and then to stay clean. To complete their grooming routine, make sure to clean their ears, trim their nails, and brush their teeth, so your English Pointer stays looking great and feeling good.
Suitability for Family Life
English Pointers are great pets for families who enjoy being active and spending time outside, as they need plenty of exercise.
Did You know?
The story of Pointers can be seen in art. Ancient Pointers appear in Egyptian tombs that are over 3,000 years old, as well as in paintings from France and England created between the 17th and 19th centuries.
