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Pointers
Pointer, also called the English Pointer, belongs to one of the pointing breeds of dogs - gundogs used in finding game. This athletic, graceful, and ready-to-go hunting dog came into origin about 200 years ago as a result of crossing various dog breeds including: Italian Pointer, Bloodhound, Greyhound, Foxhound, Setter, Newfoundland, and Bulldog. The earliest records of Pointers in history date back to around 1650 when the breed was first used in hunting hares. The modern pointers originated some 80 years back. Pointer was brought to the US at the end of the 19th century and it soon became the dominant hunting dog.
Physical Features
Pointer is known for its proudly- carried head and well-muscled body of an athletic dog. Of its muzzle, the nose is set a bit higher and the dog has an alert expression. The standard colors of a Pointer's coat are lemon, orange, liver, or black - sleek and shiny in texture. Ticking coat, i.e. white with speckles or larger patches, is also common. Pointers have hazel or chestnut eyes, varying according to the color of the coat. Their ears are usually medium-sized; neck is long; and tail is straight or tapered, but never docked. Pointer has oval feet and a nose that is of the same color as the marking on the coat. Reaching 22-24 inches high and weighing 20 to 30 kg, Pointer is considered an aristocratic breed among the hunting dogs. On the average, a litter of this breed consists of five Pointer puppies.
Temperament
If you have bought a Pointer for sale or Pointer puppies for sale you will notice it is a tireless dog, full of energy and vigor, besides being loyal and devoted to its master. It is a not only a good friend in outdoor adventures but also a kind and patient family friend to children in the house. Intelligent, calm, and clean at home, Pointers need to be socialized with people at an early age or they may get tense in company. They are on the whole very adaptive and wise enough to understand situations, though sometimes they may become a little willful and distractible, especially with strangers. Though Pointers may bark at suspicious noises or unwelcome sounds, they are not guard dogs. They are best for hunting purposes; even Pointer puppies show hunting behavior. Pointer is a fairly independent type of dog, usually friendly with other pets.
Health and Grooming
The life expectancy of most Pointers is 13 to 14 years. They are prone to suffering from hip dysplasia, thyroid problems, and dwarfism. In addition, they are more frequently affected with skin conditions than other dogs. The energetic and tireless nature of Pointer makes it a dog for adventure and plenty of vigorous exercise is needed to keep it in good health. Its smooth coat is easy to groom. Regularly grooming and bathing once a week or two helps preventing skin infections.
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