Showing posts with label German. Show all posts
Showing posts with label German. Show all posts

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Blue Great Dane Puppy attacks German Shepherd

Penny, our 8 week old Blue Great Dane Puppy, trying to play with Katie our parents 3 year old German Shepherd. Go see our other videos...

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

Saku, Great German Shepherd dog

This is a video of my german shepherd.

Friday, December 16, 2011

The German Shepherd Dog Breed - Tattoos

While I was working on a third part to my articles about the different lines of the German Shepherd Dog breed, I diverted my attention to another topic when I joined a some forums dedicated to the German Shepherd Dog and after commenting that German Shepherds had to be tattooed and getting so many responses from owners of GSDs, breeders and fans of the breed which had doubts about my comment, I decided I had to write about this before I continued with the other article.

First let's make something very clear. It is a fact that GSDs born in the United States on or after January 1st 2005 must be tattooed or they must have a microchip identification. Normally the tattoo goes in the right ear. These tattoos should be at least five numbers or 5 letters; or a combination of numbers and letters. They may be a unique tattoo number chosen by the owner, or the breeder may obtain a seven digit tattoo from the American organizations. The tattoo has to be verified by a licensed veterinarian. Another important point is that the tattoo or microchip number has to be certified on the original four generation pedigree. The main reason for this is to record a permanent identification of all GSDs born in the USA.

In most countries in the world, with the exception of the United States and very few other countries, national registries obey the rules that the Fédération Cynologique Internationale sets. The FCI is a world canine organization which is dedicated to promote and preserve purebred Dogs. It also links all Dog clubs around the world with the intention of having uniform breed standards.

The Verein fur Deutsche Schaferhunde, or the German Shepherd Dog Club in Germany, also called the SV, is the parent club of this breed and it is also the most extensive and most diligent club dedicated to a specific breed in the world. The SV is an active member of the World Union of SV's, also known as the WUSV. The WUSV in is a member of the FCI. The main function of the WUSV is to serve as a link to the SV (in Germany) and to connect German Shepherd clubs worldwide to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale.

The American Kennel Club doesn't follow the rules set by the FCI. Because of this, the United Schutzhund Clubs of America, known as the USA, is the main social organization in the United States dedicated to the protection and preservation of this breed. The USA, being a member of the WUSV, has established itself as the only GSD breed registry in the United States that abides by the international rules of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale and promotes an SV-USA registry. The United Schutzhund Clubs of America demands that all German Shepherd dogs be tattooed between the age of six and eight weeks.

I believe if a GSD is only registered in the American Kennel Club, it probably doesn't require a tattoo. However, as I have mentioned in other articles, GSDs which are not registered in a national registry that obeys the rules of the FCI have probably not been bred in accordance to the breed's standard dictated by the SV. Because of this, it is my belief that German Shepherds of American lines shouldn't really be called German Shepherds.

The main reason why the German Shepherd dog breed is one of the most popular breeds in the world still, after more than one hundred years, is because of these Clubs and their rules. These rules ensure that all German Shepherds are bred according to the standard of the breed.




The author's website features original articles about the German Shepherd dog breed

Monday, December 5, 2011

German Shorthaired Pointers

The German Shorthaired Pointer was developed as a hunting Dog and today he still excels in that capacity. This is a breed that is more than just a hunter, but those wanting "just a pet" would do well to remember their hunting heritage.

This is an adaptable breed with keen scent senses and intelligence for any job you want to teach them. He loves an active family and requires minimal grooming to keep his short coat in condition.

This is a Dog that is as eager to hunt pheasant and waterfowl as he is raccoons. He's an easy going Dog with a heritage of German bird dogs bred to English pointers to refine and lend elegance without sacrificing the athletic abilities of the breed. Some claims of blood from an old Spanish pointer, English foxhounds and German tracking hounds added to genetic "installation" of desired characteristics.

They are versatile all purpose gun dogs that were selectively bred for trainability and then style and scenting abilities to produce a dog that is outstanding all around in the field as well as in the home.

This is a powerful dog that should cover some ground but without coarseness. They are by the standard 55-70 pounds and 23-25 inches in size. Proper bone is important - too heavy alters the picture while too light alters function.

Liver and white is the key color here. It may be liver and white ticked, patched, white ticked or liver roan but must be liver and white. Dogs with black, lemon, tan, solid white or orange are disqualified as that is more pointer qualities and coloring than the distinct German shorthair.

In motion these dogs should reach forward as well as driving with power from the hindquarters, allowing efficient movement to cover as much ground as possible. They have participated in field trials for the breed since 1944. Due to tail injuries the breed requirement is that the tail is docked to 40% of the original length. In motion the tail should never curve back towards the head.

Whether for show or hunting this is a dog that should be well muscled with a form-to-function type of movement. Muscling should be firm with the ability to do a job not just look curvy but have soft, flabby muscles. The smooth coat is tight against the body which allows the GSP to work in a variety of brush without needing extensive grooming.

Today breeders often focus on the same traits of bidibility, instincts and intelligence that allow them to excel as gun dogs along with the physical requirements to get the job done. Intelligence only goes so far if the dog isn't willing to learn what you want to teach him!

The German Shorthaired Pointer club of America still values those dogs that can get the national championships in field trials as well as conformation. Indeed a large portion of the site is on field trials, hunting tests, gun dog information, versatility dogs and, of course, show dogs.

Because this is a breed that hunts first you can expect a high energy dog that needs considerable activity to be happy. Although dogs proven in the field are by nature healthy enough to get the job done it pays to remember there are diseases to watch for. If you are buying a puppy the parents should be tested to insure they are healthy genetically as well as appearance.

Hip dysplasia, congenital cardiac disease, eye disorders and cone degeneration are all things that should be eliminated by testing. Elbow dysplasia and autoimmune thyroiditis are also factors.

One of the most specific to German Shorthairs is cone degeneration - CD. This is rare but does show up in some lines. This is a recessive genetic trait - the parents do not have to have it if they carry it genetically. This causes day blindness due to the cells in the retina is not normal in response. By 8-12 weeks puppies affected will show signs of vision problems that are noticeable. In bright areas it can be painful for an affected dog as they can't adjust to dim the night. They retain the night or dim lit vision, but bright lights render them unable to see. Obviously this is a devastating disease that alters the life of an outgoing hunting dog forever. Tests can return three results - normal is free of the disease and can be bred to any other GSP. "C" indicates a carrier - they carry the disease but do not have it themselves. Because it is a recessive they can be bred to 'normal' dogs and be fine - but a carrier bred to a carrier can and most likely will through "A" dogs - affected. These or homozygous and will get CD.

If breeding GSP this is an important consideration to test for as well as understanding dominant and recessive breeding. Breeding a carrier to a normal dog produces half normal and half carriers. However breeding carrier to carrier produces half carriers, ¼ normal and ¼ that will have the disease. Breeding carrier to affected increases to ½ the pups that will get the disease while the other ½ carries it. Clearly, breeding carriers only to normal dogs is important as well as making educated decisions on breeding.

Another unique disease to GSP is lupoid dermatosis which seems to be hereditary but studies are still being done. This shows itself usually between 6 months and 3 years with a scaly skin and lesions that are painful. Symptoms may come and to with little reason and skin infections may be present. There is no treatment so eliminating animals with the disease from the breeding population can stop the disease before it gets a foothold in the breed.

Although these are serious disorders remember the breed's #1 function is as a gun dog. This takes a healthy animal!

This is a breed that for those who don't hunt can excel at agility, rally, DockDog competition, tracking, obedience and anywhere the ability to work with their owner towards a common goal is prized. This gives an outlet for that high energy drive the dog possesses. They want to be with people, working with people and learning.

Open area, a happy dog and a partnership creates a bond. On a fall morning you're in the meadows and your GSP snaps to a point as he notices a bird in the grass ahead and for a moment all is right with the world. A view with a beautiful, functional dog that wants to work with YOU. Life is good!

This is not a breed for everyone but for those in an active home he can be an awesome dog.




David Beart is the owner of the Professors House [http://www.professorshouse.com]. Our site covers family related issues from raising children to puppies [http://www.professorshouse.com/pets/dogs/puppies.aspx], relationships to cooking.

Tuesday, November 29, 2011

Pointers in Choosing a German Shepherd Puppy

German shepherds, also called Alsatians in Britain, are an intelligent, loyal, and eager-to-please breed of canines. If it is probably your first time to decide on finally having a German shepherd Dog in your house, you would have a hard time thinking, "What are the things you should look into in choosing a puppy?" This should not be a problem at all if you know some things about the breed.

There are many things to look into when choosing a pup. Some people would choose on the basis of outward appearance. For instance, some would want that beautiful white Alsatians with very beautiful fur indeed. And some would prefer the brownish or grayish brown ones. Whatever it is, physical appearances even in choosing Dogs matter.

On the other hand, others would choose puppies on the basis of temperament because this will determine the adaptability of the puppy on any kind of working condition. With a sound temperament, German shepherd Dogs are equipped with better coping skills even in the most desperate of conditions. To get straight to the matter, know first what the purpose of your pup will be. Learning this will make choosing more easy. Of course, temperaments matter in whatever purpose you have for your dog. Nevertheless, assessing also your own needs will mellow what seems like a difficult task.

Where can we possibly get the kind of German shepherd dog we want? This is another tough question, but there are ways to make this even easier as well as fun. Know the breeders of these dogs and their contact numbers. To make finding them easier, you can use the Internet or check on the Yellow Pages for a German shepherd breeder. You can also check your local animal shelter or GSD Rescue Service, so that at least, you are confident that you got your dog from the right breeder. Another thing you can learn about breeders is through referrals, usually given by vets or dog groomers in your area. Think of choosing a pup like making a thorough canvass of every possible detail, as you will be making investment on the dog you are going to have.

Do your research rather carefully and make sure you get to the bottom of every recommendation and reference by asking a lot of questions. Just like buying a car or choosing where you to live, if ever a German shepherd breeder offers you a deal, don't take it once. Think through the research you have done because maybe just somewhere, you will find a better deal and a better pup. You'll know if a breeder is the right one for if he is truly interested in the breed. They are those who would not only seek to be paid, but also be concerned abut finding a new home for the pups. They, after all, need a family whom they could treat like a pack. When talking to your breeder of choice, don't get intimidated about offers and don't be afraid to ask too many questions such as the dog's pedigree, food, registration papers, diseases and how often he screens each pup from them etc. Take your time in corresponding with him first through e-mail or phone calls before finally deciding.

Once you have done all these, now you are all set in choosing and buying a German shepherd pup.




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Tuesday, September 6, 2011

German Shorthaired Pointer - Dog Breeds

Group: Sporting

Weight: male: 55-70, female: 45-60 lbs

Height: male: 23-25, female: 21-23 inches

Overview

The German Shorthaired Pointer breed was first bred during the 1800s for hunting purposes. They were created by crossing the old Spanish pointers with several other breeds such as scent and tracking hounds; Foxhounds, Italian Pointers, German Tracking Hounds, German Bird Dogs and English Pointers. This mixture produced an open, lean, hunting Dog with great flexibility, being capable to retrieve both fur and feather, on land and water. These dogs do very will in companion hunting as well as field trials, hunt tests, tracking trials and as show dogs.
Temperament

This breed was bred to be a family friendly dog as well as a hunter. German Shorthaired Pointers should affectionate and clever dogs that are easy to train. They are happy, gracious and very sociable. German Shorthaired Pointers love children and will get along well with them, but some puppies can be too lively. If taught from puppyhood, these dogs can as adults make wonderful companions to children. This breed makes an outstanding watch dogs seeing that they are so protective and loyal to their families.

Care

Although these dogs have short, coarse coats that shed a lot - a weekly brushing will help to reduce the shedding. A good diet will also help lessen the shedding, together with enhancements such as omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil. These dogs should only be bathed when it is really needed, and it is vital for these dogs to be dried properly after hunting to prevent coldness. Their feet should be checked after working in fields, as burrs, sticks and other unknown objects can become stuck into the pads. It is also important to keep their ears dry in order to prevent infections.

Training

The German Shorthaired Pointer will need an owner with previous dog ownership experience as they require lots of proper training. It is part of their character to work in long distances from their handlers, should therefore know that the handler is in control and to come when they are called. There are only a small number of hunting breeds that can execute all gundog roles; and they are the pointer, the retriever, the water and upland bird dog and scent hounds. They are effortlessly trained to do these activities, but it does take some time to perfect.

Health problems

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a fairly healthy breed, but they can have problems with disorders such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, entropion and skin disorders. Most dogs with droopy ears struggle with ear infections, and regular cleaning of the ears are therefore necessary. This breed can without difficulty gain weight if not exercised. They will need a lot of food when worked, but should not be overstuffed. If left overweight, these dogs are prone to injury when having to work and exercise.




Visit the following links for more info on the German shorthaired pointer or a full list of Dog Breeds.

Friday, March 18, 2011

Finding the Right Dog From German Shepherd Rescues

If you know anything at all about the current pet overpopulation crisis in the country, then you are already planning to adopt a homeless animal rather than buy from a pet store or a breeder. You already know that incredible pets can often be found at animal shelters and breed specific rescue centers. By doing your homework and learning all you can about different Dog breeds, you have enough German Shepherd information to know if a German Shepherd is right for you and your family.

German Shepherds, although incredibly popular, also are abandoned in incredible numbers. Most people are not aware of the needs this intelligent, active (and shedding) breed has before they bring one home. They might want a Shepherd just because of the looks, or to have as a status symbol. Unlike their owners, volunteers at German Shepherd rescues across the nation get to know the Dogs in their care.

Good dog Shelter rescues will work very closely with each dog in their care and take time to get to know the dog's preferences and quirks. Good German Shepherd rescues will never let you adopt a dog right away. You will have to fill out a lot of paperwork, often give them a letter on your character written by your vet, and answer a lot of questions about your (possibly lack of) dog information. Be very suspicious of any organization that calls themselves a German Shepherd rescue and that ships dogs to you without asking you any questions. The dogs for sale might be stolen or very sick dogs.

Good German Shepherd rescues will not let you walk away with a dog for free, either. This is to discourage those lowlifes who sell dogs to laboratories and sell bait dogs to dog fighting rings. Expect to pay up to $400 (US) in order to adopt your dog. This fee is incredibly low in comparison to buying a puppy from a breeder.

Always contact the rescue centre before you visit. Don't drop in unexpected and expect to drive off with a dog. The best German Shepherd rescues will have you fill out a questionnaire and quiz you about your knowledge of breed information. They will usually give your home and your personal references a check, too. They want to be absolutely sure the dog will find what every dog deserves - a forever home.

Don't just agree to take a dog right away over the phone or email. That should never happen. You need to meet the potential dog a couple of times before you are allowed to adopt the dog. When you visit the dog, you are also visiting what kind of place the German Shepherd rescue is. Is it overcrowded? How are the dogs behaved? How does the place smell? If the place passes the nose and eye test, then chances are good your adoptee will be a calm, friendly dog.




Jan Ryan has written hundreds of articles on all things canine, including German Shepherd rescues. Many wonderful pets and life companions come from a German Shepherd rescue. There would be a lot less German Shepherds in shelters if everyone thinking of getting a dog learned basic German Shepherd information first.

Friday, November 5, 2010

Do German Shepherds Shed a Lot?

Yes. German Shepherds do shed. A lot? Well, I would have to say that that in many ways this is up to the owner because some people may have more have more of an aversion to Dog, cat or any kind of pet hair than others do. Personally, I've been around German Shepherds since I was a kid so I don't even think about their shedding any more - it's just a part of life for me and my Dogs and we just handle it as it comes. Not having Dog hairs for me would mean that I don't have a GSD either and I'd much rather have the Dog (and it's coat) any day than a spotless house.

There is a chance you'll hear them referred to as "German Shedders" by people too. Why? Because they do shed - pretty moderately all year long. I can tell you this without reservation though - if you are offended by dog hair and have a "clean freak" type personality, then do not get a German Shepherd Dog because you will have to deal with dog hair. I promise you that.

New owners of German Shepherds, also called Alsatians, or people thinking about getting one, however, need to be aware that GSDs do shed. Just so you'll know, the GSD is a "double-coated" dog breed. This means that its coat consists of a fluffy undercoat that helps insulate the dog and stiffer guard hairs on the top that help "waterproof" the dog.

Now here's the main thing you need to keep in mind about the GSD and its coat - those guard hairs on the outside will be shed - all year long - every day. And what about that fluffy undercoat? It gets shed too - about twice a year - once in the spring and again in the fall as the seasons change. This is what many people refer to as "blowing coat" so if you hear that term thrown around you'll know what it means.

When they do seasonally blow coat you can easily comb out enough dead hair to make a good sized Pekingese statue with all the dead hair. During this shedding process do yourself a favor and buy an undercoat rake, also called a shedding rake. This is the best grooming tool on the planet for removing all that dead undercoat easily on a GSD and will help you maintain your sanity as your dog "blows" its coat. The rest of the year you can take control of shedding easily by combing your dogs daily and vacuuming as necessary.

And what about long-coated German Shepherds?

Many people own the longer coated Alsatians. No problem. In fact, I've owned several of them myself as well. But keep this in mind, the longer coat does need more grooming overall to keep it in tip top shape. I would also like to take the time to point out that in my observations of owning both long and standard coated GSDs that it seems that my longer coated German Shepherds seem to physically shed less than my shorter coated GSDs - but the tradeoff is that they need more hands on grooming.

So, if you want a German Shepherd - really, really want a GSD, then you're going to have to deal with a dog that sheds all year too. So buy some new bags for your vacuum cleaner or get a good broom because you will need it - because German Shepherds do shed! A lot.




German Shepherds are really incredible dogs. But they're not for everyone - and if you're thinking of getting one I highly encourage you to do all the research you can about them ahead of time. One place you can learn about them is at: Total German Shepherd.

And if you love to read, why not check out my ebook, "Your Total German Shepherd Dog" now too? Filled with over 200 pages of "German Shepherd goodness" - health info, puppy news and so much more.

Saturday, October 30, 2010

Miniature German Schnauzers - Choosing the Breed of Dog That's Right For You

Getting a Dog can change your life. If you get a Dog that is compatible with your lifestyle, it can be a very rewarding experience, but all Dogs require love, attention, care and training, so before you make that decision, ask yourself these questions:


  • Do I have time to give a Dog the attention it requires?

  • Do I have the ability to provide proper grooming, exercise and training for a dog?

  • Can I afford the expenses that come with a dog?

  • Do I have what it takes to be a strong pack leader?

  • Do I want to buy a dog from a breeder or adopt a dog from a shelter or rescue?

If, after answering the above questions, you decide to move forward with getting a dog, it would be wise to learn about the different breeds and their characteristics, personality/temperament, possible health conditions and exercise and grooming requirements in order to make an informed decision.

This article is a basic overview of one particular breed -- a Miniature German Schnauzer. Read on to decide if this breed of dog is compatible with your particular lifestyle.

History/Background: Originally bred in Germany in the late 1800s, the miniature German Schnauzer is reportedly a cross between the standard schnauzer, the Affenpinscher and perhaps the poodle. It was named after the German word "schnauze," which means muzzle. It was primarily used for droving, stock tending, hunting vermin, pulling carts, guarding flocks and children and serving as watchdog, and excelled at killing rats. It was brought to America in 1925 and classified under terrier. It is currently the 10th most popular breed in America. Talents include hunting, tracking, watchdog, performing tricks and competitive obedience.

Physical Characteristics: The miniature German Schnauzer is small and squarely proportioned, with a bushy beard, mustache and eyebrows. The tail is usually docked. It has oval dark-colored eyes. The ears are V-shaped and fold forward or are cropped to stand erect. The double coat is harsh, hard and wiry with a short undercoat. Coat colors include salt and pepper, white, black or harsh black and silver outer coat with a soft undercoat. Height is 12-14 inches, and weight is 10-15 pounds.

Personality/Temperament: Mini Schnauzers are happy, affectionate, loyal and very friendly. They are intelligent, obedient and very adaptable. They are perky, bright eyed, energetic, active and playful and are good with children. This breed likes companionship and attention of its owners and is devoted to home and family. They make good companions and family pets, as well as good watchdogs and mouse catchers. They also travel well. Mini Schnauzers can be reserved with strangers but most of them love everyone.

They may develop behavioral problems such as separation anxiety, willfulness, nervousness, guarding, boldness and sometimes be temperamental if the owners do not display pack leadership. Charming and attractive, this breed has clean habits and generally does not have a doggy odor. They should not be trusted around smaller animals because of their hunting background. They are fairly easy to housebreak if trained properly.

Possible Health Conditions: Miniature German Schnauzers are usually healthy but may be prone to kidney stones, liver disease, skin disorders, Von Willebrand's disease, diabetes, cysts or hereditary eye problems. This breed tends to gain weight easily and should not be overfed. The mini Schnauzer shows no signs of age until quite late in life. Life expectancy is about 15 years.

Exercise/Grooming: Mini Schnauzers need daily, long, brisk walks. They love to play off leash. Grooming is fairly easy but the coat will become matted unless combed or brushed daily with a short wire brush, and the knots should be clipped out. The whiskers should be cleaned after meals, and the eyes and ears should be trimmed around with blunt-nose scissors. The coat should be clipped all over twice a year, spring and fall, to an even length. This breed of dog sheds little to no hair and is a good breed for allergy sufferers.

Living Conditions: This breed is good for apartment life. It is fairly active indoors and does okay without a yard.

Summary: Miniature German Schnauzers are small dogs that make good family companions, are usually fairly healthy, require little exercise and shed very little but, as with all breeds of dogs, require strong pack leadership to prevent behavioral problems and require regular grooming. So, now that you've learned a little about this breed of dog, one question remains -- Is a Miniature German Schnauzer the right breed for you?




Anita Funkhouser is the owner of http://www.gogreendogbeds.com, offering high-quality, eco-friendly dog beds, toys and sweaters made from recycled materials, and http://pickofthelitterblog.wordpress.com/, a blog about various breeds of dogs.

Wednesday, August 11, 2010

Are German Shepherds Good Family Pets?

A German Shepherd Dog can be an excellent choice of family Dog, with the right family. Remember that German Shepherds are great dogs but they're not for everyone - no more so than would be a saint bernard, a chesapeake bay retriever, or a parson russell terrier - you get my meaning I hope, not every dog breed is a good fit for every home, that's just the way it is.

Something else I would like to remind everybody about is just how smart they are. These are very intelligent animals and need to be tested mentally as well as physically. And this is one thing many first time owners simply aren't aware of. You need to work these dogs brains as well as their muscles to have the happiest GSD possible. Mental exercise simply can't be overstated. New tricks, games, training of all types and giving the dog a job to do are all good ways to keep that furry little Einstein in tip top shape.

German Shepherds, also called Alsatians in some parts of the world, can get along quite well with children too - especially if they are socialized with them early on. It is very important that you take the time to make sure that your German shepherd puppy is comfortable around human beings, as well as other pets and dogs and the importance of training and socialization simply can't be overstated.

And if I could tell you only one thing to do with your German Shepherd to make it the best dog possible for your family it would have to be to socialize your GSD well - this one thing above all others can make such a huge difference in how well your dog is, socially speaking, later on in life. Get your dog out and about in as many places as you can safely - on tile/hardwood/linoleum and other kinds of floors, riding inside cars, going inside pet friendly businesses, etc., and introduce it to as many dog friendly people, cats, and other pets as you can. Let it observe horses, goats, sheep or whatever other kinds of animals that you can and let it interact with other friends pet dogs to help make it a a secure and friendly dog.

Also, don't forget just how big and strong a GSD can get to be as an adult. If you have very small children it could potentially be a problem for them if you don't supervise the dog and the kids together. And if you have a small GSD puppy, you don't want to leave it unsupervised with small kids either. Better safe than sorry I've always felt.

Lastly, don't ignore just how much exercise a growing German Shepherd will need. You'll need to make sure that you can give your GSD lots of exercise outside, and inside too if you have the space, to help use up a lot of that excess energy. You'll be surprised just how happy a tired GSD can be!

So, there is a lot to think about before you bring home a German Shepherd dog or puppy. But if you think of these key items first you'll have a better idea of whether or not a German Shepherd would make a good fit in your own home. Remember, this is a fairly long lived animal and if all goes well you can expect to have this dog in your life for 8 to 13 years or so so please don't bring home any dog or puppy on impulse. And if you happen to follow the steps above all those years together should be good ones.




German Shepherds are really incredible dogs. But they're not for everyone - and if you're thinking of getting one I highly encourage you to do all the research you can about them ahead of time. One place you can learn about them is at: Total German Shepherd

And if you love to read, why not check out my ebook, Your Total German Shepherd Dog now too? Filled with over 200 pages of "German Shepherd goodness".

Monday, July 26, 2010

The German Pointers Dog Breed History

The Origins of the German Pointer breed

As the name suggests the German Pointer Dog, also known as the German Shorthaired Pointer comes from Germany. Even though researchers do not have many details about the origin of this breed, the all concluded that the German Pointer breed is a mixed breed that developed in time from mixing breeds like the Spanish Pointer, the Foxhound, the Bloodhound and other hunting Dogs and later the English Pointer.

The German Pointer breed belongs to the European pointer Dogs. There are records about the pointer dogs as well as the hunting dogs from Europe ever since the 13 th century. Todays German Pointer is an elegant and versatile hunter both in the water and on land. He is a specialist in bird hunting and is admired for his great personality.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is related to the German Wirehaired Pointer, a breed of dog mostly common in Germany and less in The Great Britain or The United States. Though they are both mixed breeds and have related predecessors, the German Wirehaired does not have any Bloodhound or Foxhound predecessors. The Wirehaired Pointer however originates from the Pudel pointer, another mixed breed between the German Pudel and the English Pointer amongst others.

Past records of the German Pointers breed

Even if there aren't many records that talk about the German breed but mention the hunting dogs for their proficiency in finding and tracking large and small animals as well as their dexterity in both water and on land, the breed got some recognition after it was crossed with the English Pointer in the late 1800s. The German breed was recognized as a breed and recorded by the German Kennel Club in 1872.

In the 1920's the German Shorthaired breed was taken to the United States where it became a popular breed. Not too long ago the American Kennel Club, that formally recognized the breed in the 1930, stated that the German Pointer reached the 20th place in list of most popular breeds in the US. In 2005 a German Shorthaired Pointer dog won Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show and the first show where a German Shorthaired Pointer participated was held in 1941 in Chicago.




For more info on German Pointers, German Shepards, and other large dog breeds of this origin, please visit us at large dog breeds: largedogbreedz.com