German Shorthaired Pointer
Male: 25-32 kg; Female: 20-27 kg.
Male: 62-66 cm; Female: 58-63 cm at the shoulder.
12-14 years
Germany
About the German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is the quintessential all-purpose gundog, developed in the late 19th century in Germany to be a jack-of-all-trades in the field. This breed combines power, speed, and endurance, characterized by an aristocratic silhouette and a balanced, athletic build. Their short, water-repellent coat and webbed feet make them as proficient in the water as they are on land, where they are known for their intense 'point' and reliable retrieval. Beyond their prowess as hunters, GSPs are deeply affectionate and loyal companions who thrive on human interaction. They are often described as 'velcro dogs' because of their tendency to stay close to their owners. Due to their high intelligence and boundless energy, they require an active lifestyle and consistent training to prevent boredom-related behaviours. In a home environment, they are typically friendly and outgoing, though their boisterous nature means they are best suited to families that can provide ample physical and mental outlets.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the German Shorthaired Pointer is defined by its aristocratic bearing and functional elegance. The breed standard calls for a 'clean-cut' head with a broad skull and a powerful muzzle, reflecting its utility. The movement should be smooth and lithe, with great reach and drive, showing no sign of effort. A key quality is the 'short, thick, and hard' coat that must feel tough to the hand, indicating its protective nature in dense cover.
In Australia
The German Shorthaired Pointer was introduced to Australia in the mid-1950s, with the first German Shorthaired Pointer registration occurring in 1955. According to the German Shorthaired Pointer Club of Victoria Inc., these dogs were primarily imported by hunters seeking a versatile, all-purpose gundog that is capable of working in all types of terrain.
Bred For
Versatile hunting, pointing, and retrieving on both land and water.
Temperament
Intelligent, bold, energetic, and cooperative with a strong desire to please.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
Hip and , (), (Type 1), (Heart), and ().
Grooming Needs
Low; regular brushing with a firm bristle brush or grooming glove to manage shedding and occasional bathing.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartment living. Requires a large, securely fenced yard or acreage. They are highly active indoors and need space to move.
Good with Kids
Generally very good with children, though their high energy and size can be overwhelming for toddlers; supervision is recommended.
Good with Other Pets
Good with other dogs if socialised early. High prey drive means they may chase small pets like cats or rabbits unless raised with them.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and eager to please, though they can be independent. They respond best to positive reinforcement and varied training sessions.
Coat & Colours
Short, thick, tough, and water-repellent.. Liver, Liver and White (ticked, spotted, or roan), Black and White.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Prospective GSP owners should be aware that these are 'velcro dogs' who can be predisposed to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods—they truly thrive on your presence and will happily follow you from room to room. Their high energy is no exaggeration; without significant daily exercise and mental challenges, they can become creative 'escape artists' or enthusiastic diggers, though a tired GSP is a wonderfully calm indoor companion. Because they are deep-chested, they are more likely to experience Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat), which requires careful feeding management and awareness of emergency symptoms. Their short coat sheds more than one might expect, and those small, stiff hairs can be prone to sticking to upholstery like needles—a quick weekly brush usually keeps this in check. They are also prone to floppy-ear infections if moisture is trapped, so a regular ear-cleaning routine is a must. Finally, while generally hardy, some GSPs can be predisposed to skin sensitivities or food allergies on standard commercial kibbles, often showing significant improvement on a fresh, limited-ingredient diet from Majestik.
Feeding Guide for Your German Shorthaired Pointer
Healthy Weight
20-32 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
500-960 grams
For an adult GSP, a fresh or raw diet should focus on high-quality lean proteins to support their high metabolism. Feed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily. For a 28kg dog, this equates to 560g to 840g per day, split into two meals to help mitigate the risk of bloat. Ensure the diet includes a balance of muscle meat, edible bone, and organ meats, supplemented with seasonal vegetables.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
High-protein, moderate-fat diet suited for active working breeds. Fresh, high-quality proteins are essential to maintain lean muscle mass and support high energy levels.
A balanced raw diet for a GSP should prioritise lean Australian proteins like Kangaroo (available from Majestik) to provide high energy without excessive fat. Incorporate Beef or Lamb for essential amino acids, and include Sardines or Salmon once or twice a week for Omega-3 fatty acids to support skin and joint health. Some owners use smaller divided meals and avoid strenuous activity immediately around feeding. These steps cannot guarantee prevention of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Seek urgent veterinary care if bloat is suspected.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
German Shorthaired Pointer Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your German Shorthaired Pointer? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
8-12 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.