German Shorthaired Pointer: Character, Health, Feeding, Price, and Care

The perfect dog for anyone who loves being outdoors, the German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile hunting companion that can be used for both small and large games. With a loyal and affectionate personality, this breed also makes an excellent family pet—provided they get enough exercise to work off all that energy.

Healthy and long-lived, GSPs are relatively easy to care for, although their coat does require some brushing and grooming. German shorthaired pointers become incredibly close to their family if given lots of love, affection, and playtime.

Keep reading to learn more about the German Shorthaired Pointer dog breed, including information on its cost, feeding, health, and more.

What Is a German Shorthaired Pointer?

The German shorthaired pointer is a breed of dog that is medium in size and is known for being intelligent and friendly. These dogs are always eager to please their owners and love being active, so they make great exercise buddies. 

However, you'll form a lifelong bond and have heaps of fun living an active lifestyle. If you're looking for a loyal friend to join you on all your adventures, the German shorthaired pointer is the perfect breed for you.

What Is German Shorthaired Pointer Size?

When they reach maturity, males weigh between 55 and 70 pounds, while females weigh between 45 and 60 pounds. Males will be 23 to 25 inches tall, while females will stand 21 to 23 inches tall.

German Shorthaired Pointer: Average Lifespan

German Shorthaired Pointers have a lifespan of about 10 to 12 years. While this is slightly less than some other breeds, you can support and extend your pup's life by finding a good breeder, keeping up with vet checkups, and getting pet insurance.

How to Take Care of Your German Shorthaired Pointer's Health?

You should be aware of a few things when it comes to your German shorthaired pointer's health. Some common issues include:

• Hip dysplasia is a condition that can cause lameness and pain in the hips. It is a genetic disorder that is inherited from the parents.
• The major concern for German Shorthaired Pointers is Lymphedema. This condition is usually apparent from an early age. To catch this and other possible problems in GSPs, vets suggest tests for hips, eyes, and heart during regular visits.
• Entropion (eyelid that rolls inward) and ectropion (eyelid that rolls outward) are genetic disorders that can cause eye irritation.

To cure these problems, German shorthaired pointers may require surgery.

As a dog owner, you can take some measures to prevent health problems in your dog. Here's a list of things you can do to keep your German shorthaired pointer healthy:

• German Shorthaired Pointers need a lot of space to run and play. They are not suited for apartment living. For a dog, having a large yard fenced-in is ideal since they can run around without being on a leash.
• German Shorthaired Pointers are a delightful breed that shows immense affection to their families, no matter the size. They also enjoy being included in all family activities, including playing fetch or Frisbee at the park.
• An active lifestyle is great for GSPs, but not to the point of exhaustion. Too much exercise can be just as harmful as not enough.

What to Feed Your German Shorthaired Pointer?

As with all dogs, German Shorthaired Pointers need a well-balanced diet. A healthy diet for a GSP includes lean protein, healthy fats, vegetables, and fruits.

High-quality commercial dog food is often the best diet for a German Shorthaired Pointer. Remember to include your pet's age when choosing a formula, as different life stages require different types of food (puppy, adult, senior).

Avoid giving your German Shorthaired Pointer table scraps, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems.

How Much Does a German Shorthaired Pointer Cost?

German Shorthaired Pointers are a popular breed and can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,500. The price of a GSP will vary depending on the breeder, with more experienced breeders charging more for their puppies.

Final Thoughts on German Shorthaired Pointer

Because of their high energy levels, German Shorthaired Pointers need a lot of exercises. They require a home with a large, fenced yard where they can safely run around off-leash. They also need an owner willing to commit to daily walks, runs, or other forms of exercise.