Are German Shorthaired Pointers Good Solo Dogs?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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German Shorthaired Pointers were first bred as all-around, companionable hunting dogs. GSPs possess high energy, a strong prey drive, and athletic prowess.

A GSP makes a great family dog, but be prepared for shedding and shenanigans

.

How long can a German Shorthaired Pointer stay home alone?

Typically, an adult German Pointer can be left alone for

up to four hours

. Six hours is acceptable on occasion, but more than this is harmful to their bladder health as well as their emotional well-being.

Are German Shorthaired Pointer good for first time owners?


It isn’t recommended to get a GSP for a first dog

largely due to them needing a complex training routine combined with extensive, interesting exercise.

Why you shouldn’t get a German Shorthaired Pointer?

The German Shorthaired Pointer has an almost constant supply of energy, and a profound desire to be with their humans. So, when you put these two things together,

one could have an incredibly destructive dog while its family is out of the house due to how easily this breed can develop separation anxiety

.

Are GSP prone to separation anxiety?

The energetic, eager, and highly trainable German Shorthaired Pointer is intelligent and friendly, and enthusiastic without being nervous, although

she can develop separation anxiety if you routinely leave her alone for long stretches

.

Do Pointers bark a lot?

English Pointers, especially youngsters, become restless and bored when confined too much and

may resort to destructive chewing and barking

.

What age do German Shorthaired Pointers calm down?

German Shorthaired Pointers usually calm down at age

two to three

. They are born hyperactive and tend to be unruly and energetic while still puppies. Some adult GSPs will still be active and ready to run and play. However, you can manage this behavior with proper training and exercise.

Are pointers anxious dogs?

You may never know what caused your dog’s anxiety.

Some breeds of dogs, including poodles, Siberian huskies, Chesapeake Bay retrievers, Great Pyrenees, German shorthaired pointers, border collies and Bernese mountain dogs, are more likely to develop anxiety

.

Are German Shorthaired Pointer hard to train?

German Shorthaired Pointers (GSP) are full of energy, need lots of exercise, and “

can be extremely challenging from six months to three years old

,” according to the AKC breed description. The good news: they’re also highly receptive to training and picking up early obedience commands.

Are German shorthaired pointers high maintenance?

German shorthaired pointers are an incredibly intelligent and active breed.

Some may say “high maintenance” due to their level of needs when it comes to physical and mental stimulation

. They’re bred to be sporting and working dogs — they thrive when they have a “job.” Most often, GSP’s are used as hunting companions.

Are German shorthaired pointers cuddly?


German Shorthaired Pointers are so affectionate

because of their intelligence and loyalty to their family. These dogs enjoy interactions with humans and are eager to please. They were bred to be sporting companion dogs, so they prefer being close to their owners.

Are pointers clingy?

Relationship With Your Family

German Shorthaired Pointers loves people and will want to be around family at all times,

almost to the point of being clingy

. They will often follow your every move around the house and need to know where all members of the family are at all times.

What it like owning a German shepherd?


A well-bred and trained GSD is a true companion and loyal friend

. When raised with children and other pets and well socialized they are calm and friendly dogs, unless they sense danger or threat to their family. The breed is highly intelligent and will quickly catch on to what makes the owners happy.

How smart is a German Shorthaired Pointer?

They are

playful and intelligent

, and generally are good with other dogs and children. They make fairly good obedience pupils, although at times they are easily distracted by the call of the wild.

What is it like to own a German Shorthaired Pointer?


A GSP can be quite mischievous and their pranks are often not appreciated by humans

. While GSPs are generally great with kids, care must be exercised around small children. A GSP’s eagerness and playfulness could at times lead to unintentional injuries.

Are pointers good guard dogs?

9. According to the breed standard, Pointers are dignified dogs that are never timid with strangers or other dogs. They are also protective of their territory and family. This makes them

fabulous watchdogs

that will alert you to anything amiss.

Are German Shorthaired Pointers loyal?


The German Shorthaired Pointer breed is a loyal, loving dog

who wants to hang out with their pet parent. These dogs enjoy working, and you’ll find they’re alert dogs who keep an eye—and a very strong nose—on everything. Their temperament is easygoing, and they can be friendly with new people.

How many hours a day does a GSP sleep?

They will likely sleep at least

6-8 hours a day

, depending on how much exercise and stimulation the pup has had. This is a time where puppies are growing so quickly, so be careful not to over exercise your dog.

Are Pointers destructive?


Pointers can be very destructive when they are bored or don’t get enough exercise, especially when young

. This can result in chewing, digging, and many other negative behaviors that can lead to expensive vet bills and replacement costs.

Are Pointers cuddly?

They’re a versatile sporting dog breed, retrievers on land or water, and of course,

they’re the most affectionate of companions

.

Are pointer dogs smart?


They are alert and intelligent dogs

who develop their instincts at a young age. Pointers are dedicated and loyal dogs. They enjoy the company of children and generally get along with other pets. They can be reserved with strangers and should be thoroughly socialized.

How often should I bathe my German Shorthaired Pointer?

German Shorthaired Pointer’s require

2 baths

when you bathe them. If your German Shorthaired Pointer has allergies or sensitive skin we would suggest a Hypo-Allergenic Shampoo and follow it with a medicated shampoo depending on your dog’s needs.

How much exercise do German shorthaired pointers need?

The GSP requires serious exercise: running, swimming, long walks, playing in a fenced area, and anything else you can do to take the edge off their energy.

Two daily sessions of ample physical activity are recommended

, though with a GSP, there’s no such thing as too much exercise.

Why does my German Shorthaired Pointer shake?


Separation anxiety

can bring on shaking and shivering behavior. The German Short Haired Pointer is an intelligent dog and will become frustrated and fear being left alone. His reaction when you do return could also be one of sheer delight and a good shiver will just tell you he is happy all over to see you again.

Do German Shorthaired Pointers need coats?

German Shorthair Pointers

do not need coats

. They are a hardy breed of working dogs and are known to be continuously active. Their short, single-haired coat is water repellant and helps keep the dog’s body temperature even when working in the field.

Diane Mitchell
Author
Diane Mitchell
Diane Mitchell is an animal lover and trainer with over 15 years of experience working with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, birds, and horses. She has worked with leading animal welfare organizations. Diane is passionate about promoting responsible pet ownership and educating pet owners on the best practices for training and caring for their furry friends.