German Longhaired Pointer
CKC Sporting Group
Origin & History
The German Longhaired Pointer (Deutsch Langhaar) is one of Germany's oldest versatile hunting breeds, developed in the 19th century as an all-purpose gun dog. Bred from Spanish Pointers, Bloodhounds, and water dogs, this breed excels at:
- Pointing game birds with natural intensity
- Retrieving both on land and in water
- Tracking wounded game over difficult terrain
Unlike the more popular German Shorthaired Pointer, the Longhaired variety was specifically developed for harsh Central European climates, with its luxurious coat providing protection from cold and brambles. Though rare outside Germany, these dogs are prized by hunters for their calm demeanor and exceptional nose.
Stats:
- Height: 222-28 inches
- Weight: 55-80 pounds
- Coat: Medium-long (2-3 inches), wavy with feathering
- Colors: Liver roan, solid liver, or brown/white patches
- Lifespan: 12-14 years
| Traits: | 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Energy: High; needs vigorous exercise daily | ✓ | ||||
| Easy To Train: Intelligent | ✓ | ||||
| Grooming: Minimal grooming | ✓ | ||||
| Family Dog: Gentle with children when properly exercised | ✓ | ||||
| Watchdog: Good; will alert to strangers | ✓ | ||||
| Beginner Friendly: Good for very active owners. | ✓ | ||||
| Prey Drive: Very strong; will chase small animals | ✓ | ||||
| Barking: Moderate; vocal when hunting | ✓ | ||||
| Good with other dogs: Friendly but energetic, may overwhelm other dogs. | ✓ |
Health Concerns:
According to the American Kennel Club:
"German Longhaired Pointers are a robust breed, with no known congenital problems to date."
The German Longhaired Pointer is not yet part of the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) . Please see parent breed clubs for health testing recommendations.
Glossary of general canine health conditions.