Pointer

Written by Doris Donnerman (last updated February 24, 2009)

It is often believed that the Pointer originated in Spain, yet dogs with similar characteristics can be found during the same period in France, Belgium and other countries. Paintings by French artists during the seventeenth and early eighteenth centuries show the Pointer. The Pointer may have been brought into England from both France and Spain, where it has developed in to the breed that is known today. Early breeders kept meticulous records that allow a long history to be documented.

Pointers have been a popular breed at many dog shows. This popularity probably has to do with the fact that the Pointer develops faster then the Setter and is brought to his peak ability at an earlier age. A person can use more force when training a Pointer than can be used with an average Setter. However, if too much force is used the dog can be ruined or will turn into a mechanical performer unsuitable for field trials and undesirable in the hunter's field.

The Pointer is a dog of rugged constitution, where the desire to hunt along with a well-defined pointing instinct is deeply ingrained. The shortness of the coat allows the dog to more easily tolerate hotter weather and arid terrain than will a Setter. The Pointer was developed for a hunting dog and as a gun dog.

The Pointer does not have the affectionate disposition of a Setter and is much less likely to be a one-person dog. Still, there are some Pointers who are loyal to the extreme. While the Pointer is not unresponsive to kind treatment, it is still not as affectionate as the Setter.

Additional information on the Pointer can be found at the website for the American Kennel Club.

Author Bio

Doris Donnerman

Doris is a jack of all trades, writing on a variety of topics. Her articles have helped enlighten and entertain thousands over the years. ...

MORE FROM DORIS

Better Organize Your Closet Space

Closets are one of those things in the home that constantly needs help in organizing. Here is the best way to have as ...

Discover More

Let Your Dog Tell You When It Needs to Go Out

It's a pain to have to guess when your dog needs to go out. What if you don't pick up on the signs and your dog ends up ...

Discover More

Some Airlines Allow Small Pets in the Cabin

When you travel with your pets, there are so many things to consider. Lessen your stress by checking out which airlines ...

Discover More
More Pet Tips

Welsh Springer Spaniel

Hard working and able to withstand harsh elements, the Welsh Springer Spaniel is excellent at retrieving from land and ...

Discover More

Curley-Coated Retriever

The Curley-Coated Retriever is both sweet tempered and easy to train. His great stamina and swimming skills make him a ...

Discover More

Brittany Spaniel

The Brittany Spaniel is one of the more unique Spaniels. He has a natural instinct for pointing and retrieving.

Discover More
Comments

If you would like to add an image to your comment (not an avatar, but an image to help in making the point of your comment), include the characters [{fig}] (all 7 characters, in the sequence shown) in your comment text. You’ll be prompted to upload your image when you submit the comment. Maximum image size is 6Mpixels. Images larger than 600px wide or 1000px tall will be reduced. Up to three images may be included in a comment. All images are subject to review. Commenting privileges may be curtailed if inappropriate images are posted.

What is 1 + 1?

There are currently no comments for this tip. (Be the first to leave your comment—just use the simple form above!)