Pointer: Dog Breed Characteristics & Care

The pointer dog is a medium-size sporting breed from England with a short, smooth coat that can come in a variety of colors and patterns. The breed's shape is instantly recognizable; both the long head and slender tail help do their job of pointing toward game for the hunter.

A pointer will stand tall and still with one foot off the ground, tail extended, and nose upturned to point the hunter in the right direction. While they were bred to be dependable hunting dogs, pointers also have become active, affectionate, playful, and sometimes mischievous companions at home.

Learn more about the pointer dog, from their history to their care needs. 

Breed Overview

Group: Sporting

Height: 23 to 26 inches (females); 25 to 28 inches (males)

Weight: 45 to 65 pounds (females); 55 to 75 pounds (males)

Coat: Short, smooth

Coat Color: Black, black and white, lemon, lemon and white, liver, liver and white, orange, or orange and white with/without ticked markings, black points, liver points, or self-colored points

Life Span: 12 to 17 years

Temperament: Affectionate, even-tempered, energetic

Hypoallergenic: No

Origin: England

Characteristics of the Pointer Dog

Pointer dogs tend to have a loyal and eager-to-please personality. They’re generally friendly and adaptable. A high energy level also shapes their temperament, and they prefer an active lifestyle.

Pointers tend to do well with other dogs, especially when socialized from a young age. They even are typically good about meeting strangers. But they might view smaller household pets as prey. 

History of the Pointer

The origin of the pointer dog isn’t clear. But a common theory is the breed is a descendant of Spanish pointers that arrived in England during the 1700s. English breeders added other dogs to the mix, including setters, bloodhounds, foxhounds, and greyhounds.

What resulted was a devoted hunting dog that was swift and agile. Hunters would use pointer dogs in tandem with their hounds. The pointers would locate and then point toward the prey with their bodies, and the hounds would move in to secure the prey. Pointers are said to start showing this hunting instinct as early as 2 months old. 

Pointer dogs were first registered in the U.S. in 1878, and the American Kennel Club officially recognized them upon its founding in 1884. Today, pointers are still used for hunting. They also tend to excel as search-and-rescue dogs, as well as therapy and service dogs. 

Pointer Dog Care

Plan to give your pointer dog lots of exercise each day. Fortunately, their grooming needs are relatively straightforward, and the breed typically takes well to training.

Exercise

Aim for at least two hours per day of exercise for a pointer dog. Long walks, running, cycling, hiking, and play sessions all are ideal ways to burn some energy.

Many pointer dogs also enjoy dog sports, such as agility and tracking, which can exercise their minds and bodies. When a pointer doesn't receive sufficient mental stimulation and exercise, they might engage in problem behaviors in the house, such as excessive chewing.

It’s best that a pointer has access to a securely fenced yard where they can run freely to burn energy. Be sure either to keep your dog in a fenced area or on a leash when outside. Otherwise, a pointer’s high prey drive might cause them to run off chasing perceived prey.

Grooming

The pointer dog doesn’t shed or drool excessively. Brush your pointer weekly to remove loose fur and distribute skin oils.

Plan on a bath every month or so, depending on how dirty your dog gets. Look in their ears at least weekly for dirt, wax buildup, and other abnormalities. Also, check your dog’s nails roughly every month to see whether they need a trim. Aim to brush their teeth daily.

Training 

Begin training and socializing your pointer dog ideally when they're a puppy. A puppy class is a great way for your dog to learn basic commands and manners.

Always use positive-reinforcement training methods, such as treats and praise. Pointers can be sensitive to harsh corrections. Be consistent in your commands. 

Common Health Problems

Pointer dogs are overall a very healthy dog breed. But they are prone to some hereditary health issues1, including:

• Hip dysplasia: This is an orthopedic problem that targets the development of the hips. Dogs with this condition experience pain and mobility issues.

• Bloat: This is also known as gastric dilatation-volvulus (GDV). It is an emergency situation in which a dog’s stomach expands and twists. It can be fatal.

• Eye diseases: Watch for symptoms that your dog is experiencing eye problems. Conditions like cataracts (cloudy lens) and entropion (eyelids roll inward) should be treated by a veterinarian because they can cause vision loss and discomfort.

• Autoimmune thyroiditis: This causes the immune system to attack the thyroid. It can cause hypothyroidism, in which the thyroid doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones.

Diet and Nutrition

Always have fresh water accessible for your dog. Feed your pointer a quality canine diet that’s nutritionally balanced. Discuss the amount and type of food with your vet.

Two measured meals per day are common. But because pointers are prone to bloat and potentially life-threatening stomach twisting,1 which can arise from eating too quickly, you might want to feed smaller, more frequent meals. Food puzzles also can help to slow down their eating.

Where to Adopt or Buy a Pointer Dog

Pointer dogs aren’t a highly popular dog breed, but they still can be found for adoption. So it’s worth checking your local animal shelters and rescue groups for a dog in need of a home.

If you’re looking for a puppy from a reputable breeder, expect to pay around $900 to $1,500 on average.2

For further information to help you find a pointer dog, check out:

• American Pointer Club

• Pointer Rescue

Pointer Dog Overview

Pointer dogs make great family pets, and are a lot of fun for those who lead an active lifestyle in the great outdoors. But these dogs also have a high prey drive and need a lot of exercise every day, so they aren’t right for everyone.

Pros of Pointer Dogs

• Trainable and eager to please

• Affectionate and playful

• Good for active households

Cons of Pointer Dogs

• Requires lots of daily exercise and mental stimulation

• High prey drive

• Not ideal for apartment living

More Dog Breeds and Further Research

Do thorough research before bringing home a pointer dog to make sure the breed is right for your lifestyle. Talk to pointer owners, rescue groups, reputable breeders, and veterinary professionals. Spend some time around pointers, too, if possible.

If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:

• Brittany

• English Setter

• German Shorthaired Pointer

There’s a whole world of potential dog breeds out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!