The Pointer: thinking of getting a Pointer?

Place of origin: Unclear, although they have existed since the 16^th century in Europe

How big do Pointers get? 53 – 70cm

How heavy are Pointers? 16 – 34kg

Pointer Life Expectancy: 12 – 17 years

Colour: Black, Liver & White, Lemon & White, Orange & White, Liver, Black & White

Please note: A dog’s exercise, training/stimulation and grooming requirements can depend on several factors such as age and health. The same goes for ongoing costs of ownership. For advice on one specific dog, we always advise chatting with a vet.

How much exercise does a Pointer need?

Although your Pointer may seem calm when they’re inside, don’t be fooled! Pointers have huge amounts of energy and thrive in the great outdoors where they can put their muscles to good use.

To stay healthy and stimulated, your Pointer will need 2 long walks a day. If you’re active and love to go jogging, hiking or even on bike rides, your Pointer will gladly accompany you on your conquests.

Pointers like to roam and explore, so they’re ideally suited to spacious houses with large gardens. If you live in a flat, apartment or urban setting, a Pointer is probably not the breed for you.

Training: how to train a Pointer

Pointers are intelligent, strong-minded dogs. They have a short attention span so you might find that your Pointer is easily distracted when you’re training them. As with all breeds, and particularly important with breeds that were originally hunting dogs, start training your Pointer when they’re at as young an age as possible; use positive reinforcement and reward-based training.

Pointers are protective of their environment and often make great watchdogs.

Grooming: do Pointers shed?

The Pointer’s smooth coat is easy to care for and they rarely moult. To keep your Pointer’s coat in tip-top condition, a thorough brushing once a week should suffice. You’ll only need to bathe your Pointer if they roll through mud or if they’re really dirty.

Complete your Pointer’s grooming routine with regular tooth brushing, nail clips and ear checks.

Pointer temperament, socialising and ideal home environment

Pointers are usually sweet-tempered, easy-going dogs inside and hyperactive outside! If you and your family are keen explorers of the outdoors, a Pointer may be just the breed for you.

Pointers love people and are great around children and other pets – although it’s probably not a good idea to leave a Pointer alone with a small furry or a bird. They do need lots of space and company so if you spend a lot of time working and don’t think you have time to go for long walks, or if you live in a flat, apartment or urban area, you may be more suited to a smaller breed.

Cost of owning a Pointer

When considering the lifetime cost of owning a Pointer, remember to take into account:

• Breed-specific food
• Veterinary care
• Pet insurance
• Kennels or dog sitters
• Grooming costs
• Toys and equipment

As a rough guide, allow between £80 and £90 a month to cover the ongoing costs of owning a Pointer.

Need more info?

For more info on finding the best dog breed for you and your lifestyle, have a chat with your vet. 

Find your nearest vet using our Find a Vet page, or speak to a vet online using Online Vets.