Pointer
Male: 25-34 kg, Female: 20-30 kg
Male: 63-69 cm at the shoulder, Female: 61-66 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
United Kingdom (England)
About the Pointer
The Pointer, often referred to as the 'English Pointer', is the quintessential gundog, personifying speed, endurance, and grace. Their lean, muscular frame is designed for effortless movement across varied terrain, marked by a distinctive concave profile of the muzzle and an alert, noble expression. They are known for their remarkable 'point'—a rigid, frozen stance where the dog's body creates a direct line from the nose to the tail towards hidden game. Beyond their prowess in the field, Pointers are deeply affectionate and devoted family members. They possess a gentle nature indoors but require an active household that can satisfy their need for exploration and physical exertion. Without adequate exercise, their keen intelligence can lead to mischievous behavior, but for an active owner, they are among the most rewarding and spirited companions in the canine world.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Pointer is a masterpiece of symmetry and functional beauty. The head is a defining feature, showcasing a pronounced stop and a slightly concave muzzle that creates a unique 'dish-faced' appearance. Their movement is a sight to behold—a fluid, frictionless trot that covers maximum ground with minimal effort, characterized by a powerful drive from the hindquarters. The 'bee-sting' tail, carried straight and lashing with enthusiasm, signifies their spirit.
In Australia
The Pointer arrived in Australia during the early 19th century, with records from Dogs Victoria indicating they were imported by early settlers. These dogs were used as hunting companions and gundogs to hunt local and introduced game birds.
Bred For
Locating and 'pointing' towards game birds with a distinctive, motionless stance, allowing hunters to find and flush the prey.
Temperament
Even-tempered, intelligent, energetic, loyal, and aristocratic with a keen sense of alertness.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Extremely high.
Grooming Needs
Minimal. Occasional brushing to remove dead hair and regular ear cleaning are sufficient due to their short, smooth coat.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartment living. They thrive in homes with large, securely fenced yards or acreage where they can run freely. They are best suited to active environments with families who enjoy the outdoors.
Good with Kids
Generally excellent with children, particularly older children who can respect their size and energy. Their exuberance may be overwhelming for toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Usually very friendly with other dogs. They have a high prey drive, so caution is advised around small household pets like birds or rabbits, though they often coexist well with cats if raised together.
Trainability
Highly intelligent and responsive to positive reinforcement. They can be independent-minded or easily distracted by scents, requiring consistent, patient training and firm but gentle leadership.
Coat & Colours
Short, dense, smooth, and straight with a natural sheen.. Lemon and white, orange and white, liver and white, and black and white. Self-colors (solid) and tri-colors are also recognized.
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 owners should be aware that Pointers are more likely to experience Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (bloat) due to their deep-chested conformation; feeding smaller meals and avoiding post-meal sprints can help manage this risk. Their incredible stamina means they can be more likely to develop destructive habits or 'zoomies' if their exercise needs aren't met, but this is easily managed with a long daily run. Pointers are known as 'velcro dogs' and can be predisposed to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, though crate training and gradual departures can build their confidence. With their short coats, they can be sensitive to cold temperatures and may require a coat during chilly Australian winters. Some Pointers are prone to skin allergies and sensitivities on standard kibble, often showing marked improvement on a fresh, species-appropriate raw diet like those provided by Majestik. Their floppy ears can trap moisture, making them more likely to develop ear infections, so a quick weekly ear check and clean is a must for a happy hound.
Feeding Guide for Your Pointer
Healthy Weight
20-34 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
500-1000 grams
For a Pointer, a raw diet should focus on lean proteins like kangaroo or beef to maintain their athletic condition without excess weight. Adults should be fed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight daily, split into two meals to mitigate the risk of bloat. For a typical 28 kg Pointer, this equates to roughly 560g to 840g of fresh food per day.
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
A high-protein, energy-dense diet rich in healthy fats to support their high metabolism and athletic lifestyle. Fresh, raw diets with quality muscle meats, calcium-rich bones, and organ meats are highly recommended.
The ideal raw diet for a Pointer focuses on high-performance fuels available through Majestik Pet Food. Lean Kangaroo is an exceptional protein source for this breed, providing high protein and low fat to support lean muscle mass. Incorporate Beef or Lamb for essential amino acids and healthy fats. Adding steamed green vegetables provides antioxidants. 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.
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 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
Subscribe & Save on Pointer Meals
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-9 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.