Pointer
The Good
- Simple grooming requirements
- Active and enduring companion
- Friendly and affectionate nature
- Balanced and calm temperament
- Generally robust health
The Real
- Cannot tolerate being alone for long periods
- Strong hunting instincts
- Requires lengthy daily walks
Gallery
Breed Overview
The Pointer is Australia's answer to the perfect sporting companion - a dog that combines aristocratic elegance with boundless energy and a heart full of devotion. These magnificent athletes were literally born to run, and watching one in full stride across an open field is like witnessing poetry in motion.
What makes Pointers truly special is their unique ability to "point" - they'll freeze mid-stride when they detect game, creating that iconic statue-like pose with their nose directed toward their target. It's this instinct that made them legendary hunting companions, but don't worry if you're not into hunting - they're equally content being your adventure buddy on weekend camping trips to the Grampians or beach walks along the Gold Coast.
Standing 61-69 cm tall and weighing between 20-34 kg, Pointers are substantial dogs with short, glossy coats that come in striking colour combinations - typically white with patches of lemon, orange, liver, or black. Their athletic build isn't just for show; these dogs can reach speeds of up to 34 km/h and cover 15-30 km in a day when they're in their element.
In Australian homes, Pointers adapt beautifully to active families who understand their need for substantial exercise. They're gentle souls who adore children, get along brilliantly with other pets (though they might give your backyard chickens a bit too much attention), and form strong bonds with every family member rather than choosing just one favourite.
History
The Pointer's story begins in 17th century England, where these remarkable dogs earned their place in aristocratic hunting parties alongside Greyhounds. The breed's name literally describes their job - they were the original "pointers," developed to locate and indicate hidden game birds for hunters armed with early firearms.
The first written mention of Pointers appeared in 1713 in John Gray's poem "Rural Sports," and by 1725, they were popular enough to be immortalised in paintings by artist Peter Tillemans. These weren't just working dogs; they were status symbols among the British nobility, who paid extraordinary sums for dogs with exceptional field abilities.
Interestingly, Pointers made their way to Russia around the same time they were gaining popularity in England. The breed flourished among Russian aristocracy until the 1917 October Revolution nearly wiped them out entirely. It took the dedicated efforts of Soviet cynologist A.A. Chumakov to save the breed from complete extinction in Russia.
The breed standards were officially established in 1936 and have remained virtually unchanged since then - a testament to how perfectly these dogs were developed for their intended purpose. Pointers were among the first nine breeds recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1878, highlighting their international appeal and consistent quality.
What's fascinating is that Pointer puppies start displaying their famous pointing instinct at just two months old - it's so deeply ingrained in their DNA that it appears naturally without any training. This remarkable breed represents centuries of careful selection for both working ability and elegant appearance, creating dogs that are as beautiful as they are capable.
Traits & Characteristics
Pointer characteristics and temperament traits.
Caring Guide
Pointers are generally robust dogs with excellent health, but like all purebreds, they have some conditions worth knowing about. Most live healthy lives for 10-17 years, which is pretty impressive for a large breed.
The main health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia, where the joints don't align perfectly, causing pain and eventual arthritis. Responsible Australian breeders screen for these conditions, so always ask about health testing when choosing a puppy. Luxating patella (a dislocating kneecap) is another inherited condition that can affect Pointers, though it's often manageable with proper care.
Being deep-chested dogs, Pointers can experience gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat), a serious condition where the stomach twists. Australian owners should learn the warning signs - drooling, distended abdomen, and retching without vomiting - and seek immediate veterinary care if these occur. Many vets recommend prophylactic stomach tacking surgery for at-risk breeds.
There are some rare genetic conditions like hereditary sensory neuropathy and spinal muscle atrophy, but reputable breeders test for these. Some Pointers can be born deaf, which responsible breeders also screen for.
Eye problems and hypothyroidism can occasionally occur, particularly in older dogs. Regular vet check-ups help catch these early. In Australia's varied climate, their short coat means they need a warm jacket in places like Canberra or Melbourne when winter temperatures drop below 5°C. Conversely, in Brisbane's 30°C+ humid summers, their high energy means exercise must be restricted to early mornings or late evenings to prevent heatstroke.
The key to keeping your Pointer healthy is choosing a reputable breeder who health tests their breeding stock, maintaining proper weight through appropriate exercise and diet, and establishing a good relationship with a local vet for regular preventive care.
Feeding a Pointer properly is crucial because these athletic dogs burn serious energy - imagine fueling a canine marathon runner! Adult Pointers typically need 2-5 cups of high-quality dry food daily, split into two meals, but the exact amount depends on their size, age, and activity level.
Choose a premium dog food designed for large, active breeds with higher protein and fat content to support their energy needs. If your Pointer is actively hunting or competing in dog sports, they'll need even more calories. During cooler Australian winters, particularly in Melbourne or Canberra, outdoor-active Pointers may need slightly larger portions to maintain body heat.
Here's something really important for Australian owners - never feed your Pointer a large meal before exercise or right after vigorous activity. Their deep chest makes them prone to bloat, a potentially fatal condition where the stomach twists. Split their daily food into two smaller meals, and consider using a slow-feeding bowl to prevent them gulping their food too quickly.
For Pointers with joint issues (common in older dogs), omega-3 supplements and glucosamine can help maintain healthy joints. Always discuss supplements with your Australian vet first.
Fresh, clean water should always be available. On hikes in the Blue Mountains or beach runs in Perth, always carry at least 1-2 litres of extra water for your Pointer, especially when temperatures are over 25°C, as they dehydrate quickly when working hard.
Avoid feeding from the table (those pleading Pointer eyes are hard to resist, but stay strong!), and never give them chocolate, grapes, onions, or cooked bones. If you're considering a raw diet or home-cooked meals, work with a canine nutritionist to ensure balanced nutrition.
Remember, a well-fed Pointer is an energetic, happy companion ready for whatever Australian adventure you have planned!
Here's some great news - Pointers are wonderfully low-maintenance in the grooming department! Their short, sleek coat is almost self-caring, making them perfect for busy Australian families.
A weekly brush with a soft-bristle brush or rubber grooming mitt will keep their coat looking glossy and help manage shedding. During shedding seasons (typically spring and autumn in Australia), you might want to brush them daily to keep loose hair under control - trust me, your furniture will thank you!
Bathing is only necessary every few months unless they've had a particularly adventurous day rolling in something unmentionable at the local dog park. When you do bathe them, use a gentle dog shampoo to maintain their coat's natural oils and shine.
Pay special attention to their ears, especially after swimming at Australian beaches or lakes. Their hanging ears can trap moisture, leading to infections in our humid climate. Clean them weekly with a vet-approved ear cleaner, and always dry them thoroughly after water activities.
Brush their teeth several times a week (daily is even better) to prevent dental problems. Many Australian pet stores stock enzymatic toothpaste designed specifically for dogs. Regular nail trims are essential too - if you can hear them clicking on your kitchen tiles, they're too long.
After bush walks, especially along the east coast of Australia, thoroughly check for ticks around the head, ears, and paws, as paralysis ticks can be a serious risk. Their short coat also makes it easy to spot grass seeds, which can be a nasty problem in the summer months.
The beauty of Pointer grooming is that it's more about health maintenance than styling - perfect for the practical Australian lifestyle!
If you're considering a Pointer, here's the honest truth - these dogs need serious exercise, and I mean serious. We're talking 1-2 hours of vigorous activity daily, not just a gentle stroll around the block. Think of them as the marathon runners of the dog world.
Pointers excel at running, hiking, swimming, and fetch games that challenge both their body and mind. They're perfect companions for cycling (once fully grown), beach runs along the Gold Coast, or bush walking in national parks. Many Australian dog sports clubs offer activities like agility, tracking, and field trials that Pointers absolutely love.
Training-wise, these intelligent dogs are generally eager to please, but their independent hunting heritage can make them a bit selective about following commands. Consistency and positive reinforcement work best - harsh methods will only shut down their willing spirit.
Start socialisation early, especially in busy Australian environments like markets, beaches, and suburban streets. Their strong prey drive means they might suddenly decide to chase that ibis at the local park, so reliable recall training is essential.
Here's a crucial point for Australian owners - always exercise your Pointer in securely fenced areas or on-lead. Once they catch an interesting scent, they can disappear faster than you can say "drop bear," following their nose for kilometres.
Mental stimulation is just as important as physical exercise. Puzzle toys, scent games, and training sessions help tire their clever minds. A bored Pointer can become a destructive Pointer, so keep them engaged with varied activities.
Remember, a tired Pointer is a happy, well-behaved Pointer who's content to snuggle on the couch after a big day out.
Who is an ideal owner?
The perfect Pointer owner in Australia is someone who genuinely loves an active lifestyle and wants a four-legged adventure companion. If you're the type who enjoys weekend camping trips, beach walks at sunrise, or exploring national parks, a Pointer could be your ideal mate.
These dogs thrive with families who understand that "exercise" means more than a quick walk around the suburb. You'll need to commit to 1-2 hours of vigorous activity daily - think running, hiking, swimming, or playing fetch until your arm gets tired. They're fantastic with children who can match their energy levels, making them popular with active young families across Australia.
Pointers aren't suitable for first-time dog owners or anyone wanting a low-maintenance pet. They need experienced handlers who can provide consistent training and understand their independent nature. If you work long hours or travel frequently without your dog, this breed will struggle with the isolation.
Space matters too. While Pointers can adapt to larger apartments in cities like Sydney or Melbourne, they're much happier with a decent-sized backyard where they can stretch their legs. Rural or suburban homes with secure fencing are ideal.
You'll also need to be patient with their strong hunting instincts. If you keep chickens or have pet birds, a Pointer mightn't be the best choice. They're generally excellent with other dogs and cats, but their centuries of bird-hunting heritage can be hard to ignore.
The ideal Pointer owner is active, patient, consistent with training, and genuinely excited about sharing adventures with an athletic, devoted companion who'll become their shadow on every outdoor expedition.
Interesting facts about the Pointer
An Original AKC Breed
Pointers were among the first nine breeds registered in America in 1878 and were recognised by the AKC when it was founded in 1884.
Runs Nearly 35 km/h
These dogs can reach impressive speeds of up to 34 km/h and cover 15-30 km in a single day when working.
Born to Point
Pointer puppies naturally display their famous pointing instinct at around just 2 months of age, without any training.
Hunted with Greyhounds
The first Pointers appeared in England around 1650 and were originally used alongside Greyhounds for hunting.
FAQ
Absolutely! Pointers are fantastic family dogs with gentle, affectionate personalities that match well with children's energy levels. However, because of their size and enthusiasm, they might accidentally knock over very young children during play, so always supervise interactions. They're loyal to the whole family rather than bonding with just one person.
While Pointers can adapt to larger apartments, they're much happier with space to move around. If you're in a Sydney or Melbourne apartment, you'll need to be absolutely committed to providing 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily, plus regular trips to off-leash parks or the countryside. A house with a backyard is definitely preferable.
Think seriously about this - Pointers need at least 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise daily, not just walking. We're talking running, swimming, hiking, or intensive fetch games. They're bred to work all day in the field, so a quick walk around the block won't cut it. If you can't commit to this level of activity, consider a less energetic breed.
Great news here - Pointers are low-maintenance! A weekly brush is usually sufficient, though you might want to brush daily during shedding seasons. Baths are only needed every few months unless they've gotten into something messy. Regular ear cleaning is important, especially after swimming at Australian beaches.
Generally yes, Pointers get along well with other dogs and cats, especially when socialised from puppyhood. However, their strong bird-hunting instincts mean they might be too interested in pet birds or backyard chickens. They don't typically see small pets as prey, but those centuries of pointing at birds can be hard to ignore!
Pointers are generally healthy, but watch for signs of bloat (a serious emergency), hip or elbow problems as they age, and keep up with regular vet check-ups. Choose a reputable breeder who health tests their breeding stock. Being aware of bloat symptoms is particularly important - if you notice drooling, a distended abdomen, or retching without vomiting, get to a vet immediately.