Pointer - Fun Facts and Crate Size

Pointer

Quick Facts:

• AKC recognized in 1884
• Lifespan: 10-17 years
• Size: Large
• Energy: High
• Recommended Crate Size: 48" dog crate*

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The Pointer, often referred to as the English Pointer, is a dog breed that was developed as a gundog to help hunt birds or rabbits. According to Wikipedia, the English Pointer originated in the 16th and 17th centuries in England and was brought to US in the 1800s. They were then bred extensively, largely due to the abundance of hunting.

Breed

The American Kennel Club formally recognized the Pointer in 1884. These high energy dogs are known as very active, hard working, loyal, and always craving for exercise so if you do not have enough time maybe pointers are not for you. They do not adapt well to apartment living and are not recommended to novice dog owners. They are also not tolerant of being alone for extended periods.

Appearance

Pointers can weigh between 45 to 75 pounds with a height of between 23 to 28 inches. They have a striking coat that is smooth, shiny, and short. They look sporty and agile with an intelligent and alert expression. Their muscular body provides them stamina and supports the abundance of courage found in this breed.

There are 8 colors with 4 markings recognized by AKC. The colors are black, black white, lemon, lemon white, liver, liver white, orange, and orange white, with black points, liver points, self colored points, and tick markings.

Nutrition

It is recommended to provide feed formulated to large sized breeds. It is highly recommended to discuss your dog’s feed with your veterinarian and/or breeder in order to determine size and frequency of meals in order to ensure a health, long life. It is also important to ensure that clean, fresh water is always available.

Grooming

Pointers only shed a little and are easily groomed. They also don’t drool much so they will suit the clean freak soul. If you want to see their coat gleam, rub them with a chamois. Regular brushing, occasionally with a damp cloth or baby wipe, will keep your Pointer clean.

They need to bathe occasionally. Only use shampoo made for dogs. Nail trimming, teeth brushing, and ear checking are the same with the other dog breeds. Provide regular maintenance to prevent more serious health issues down the road.

Exercise

The Pointer's high energy level requires at least an hour of daily exercise. They really need it “daily”, and intensively. They are excellent running companions. Pointers get bored easily and tend to be stressed without sufficient exercise and playing. They like to dig, chase, and chew everything so leaving them with toddlers is not recommended because they can unintentionally hurt them.

Even when you have provided them with exercise, they still like playing outdoors. It is ideal to have a home with a large fenced yard. Their extremely sensitive nose is built for hunting things , so don't be surprised of unintentional, but unwanted damage while this breed seeks its fancy. If you got extra money, it is highly recommended to send them to a training school few times in a week to minimize these issues and set them off on the right paw.

Pet Crate Size

Pet Crates Direct recommends 48" dog crates* for most adult Pointers.

* Links for crate sizes will bring you to the most appropriate Amazon page.