The German Shorthaired Pointer is a medium-sized hunting dog with a slender, athletic build. The dog is 23 to 25 inches at the shoulder with the bitch 2 inches less. This dog ranges in weight from 45 to 70 pounds. The German Shorthaired Pointer has a short coat with a rough texture. The coat of this dog is liver (dark brown) and white, liver, or liver roan. The tail is docked. The German Shorthaired Pointer has a life span of 12 to 15 years. It is used as both a hunting dog and as a companion.

It is likely that the arrival of the Spanish Pointer in Germany during the 17th century led to the development of the German Shorthaired Pointer. The details regarding the exact breeds used is not available, but it is thought that the Foxhound, Hounds of St. Hubert, and even the English Pointer were used with the foundation stock. The search was for a dog that could hunt over most terrains but would also serve as a reliable and good-natured companion. The AKC recognized the German Shorthaired Pointer in 1930.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is renowned for its good disposition. It is intelligent and can be trained easily. This dog wants to be close to its human family and is very affectionate and loyal to them. The German Shorthaired Pointer is fine around children, but because of its active nature would probably be better suited for older children. It is protective of those it loves and is a very good companion dog.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a healthy, sturdy dog, but can suffer from some hereditary problems. The most serious is Von Willebrand's Disease (a form of hemophilia) and bloat, which must be treated immediately by a veterinarian. Hip dysplasia can also occur as can entropion of the eye. Epilepsy can sometimes be present in this dog. The German Shorthaired Pointer can rarely suffer from heart problems.

As the Puppy has a short, smooth coat, grooming this breed is easy. An infrequent brushing will suffice, however, care ought to be taken to analyze its feet for wounds when it has been outside. The pendant ears will increase susceptibility to ear infections, so they should be kept clean and dry. If the Puppy has been hunting, it should be examined for ticks or other parasites, and dried off if it has become wet.

While the Puppy is a friendly and loving dog, it is probably happiest with an active family. This dog should not be kept in an apartment; it is simply too energetic to be content there. The owner should be aware that the Puppy will be able to jump over a 6' fence, so even a large, fenced yard may not be secure. Involving the dog with family activities such as jogging, bicycling, or hunting is a good way to keep it happy and healthy.

Although these dogs have short, coarse coats that shed a lot - a weekly brushing will help to reduce the shedding. A good diet will also help lessen the shedding, together with enhancements such as omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil. These dogs should only be bathed when it is needed, and it is vital for these dogs to be dried properly after hunting to prevent coldness. Their feet should be checked after working in fields, as burrs, sticks and other unknown objects can become stuck into the pads. It is also important to keep their ears dry to prevent infections.

The Puppy will need an owner with previous dog ownership experience as they require lots of proper training. It is part of their character to work in long distances from their handlers, should, therefore, know that the handler is in control and to come when they are called. There are only a small number of hunting breeds that can execute all gundog roles; and they are the pointer, the retriever, the water and upland bird dog and scent hounds. They are effortlessly trained to do these activities, but it does take some time to perfect.

It cannot be stressed enough; this is not the right dog for an inexperienced or meek owner. Even those with years of experience will sometimes find themselves nose-to-nose, toe-to-toe with their GSP.