Is a German Shorthaired Pointer a good family dog?
Olivia Shea
Updated on April 23, 2026
German Shorthaired Pointers make great family dogs, but can be a handful for small children. The GSP is a very affectionate, loving companion that mostly likes children and other dogs, though since they’re so rambunctious, some experts advise against having them in households with children under seven.
How big do German shepherd pointers get?
25 inches
German Shorthaired Pointer
| height | 21–25 inches |
|---|---|
| weight | 45–70 pounds |
| life span | 12–14 years |
| breed size | medium (26-60 lbs.) |
| good with | children families dogs |
Can pointer dogs be aggressive?
Food aggression, also known as resource guarding, is one of the most common aggressive behaviors in dogs, even the German Shorthaired Pointer. This type of aggression can be learned even as a puppy and if not corrected immediately can lead to some serious problems.
What is the smallest pointer dog?
small Munsterlander
The small Munsterlander – the smallest German pointing dog – is a breed separate from the large Munsterlander, not merely a size variant. Both breeds are skilled pointers, trackers, and retrievers, but their temperament, conformation and coat colors differ.
Why do German shorthaired pointers shiver?
The Short Haired German Pointer is an excitable dog because he likes to be active. After a spell in a dam or river, your dog is going to shake off the excess water on his coat. The action of shaking off the water and having a good shiver helps prevent hypothermia, as well as dry off your dog.
Do German Shorthaired Pointer make good pets?
Temperament. German Shorthaired Pointers get along with other dogs but may have a high prey instinct with cats or other pets, which can be overcome by training and socializing the dog when young. The German Shorthaired Pointer makes a good watchdog.
How much to feed a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy?
german shorthaired pointer puppies 3 to 6 months old should be fed 3 meals daily. Feed puppies 6 months old to one year old 2 times daily. When your german shorthaired pointer hits her 1st birthday, one bowl in a day is enough. Many times german shorthaired pointers might prefer two lighter meals.
Are German Shepherds more intelligent than Rottweiler?
Both Rottweilers and German Shepherds are intelligent and trainable, although German Shepherds probably have the Rottweiler’s beat in the category of trainability.
How much does a German pointer weigh?
Females should be slightly shorter, with an average height of 21 to 23 inches at the withers. Male German shorthaired pointers should weigh between 55 and 70 pounds, while females should be between 45 and 60 pounds.