Good Exercises For German Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) was developed in the 1800’s in (you guessed it) Germany for hunting. A cross for various pointers and scenthounds, the breed was the developed to be versatile – to point, to trail at night, and to retrieve on land or in water.
Breed Type
Gun Dog
Physical Characteristics
- medium to large size
- well-balanced, streamlined with strong legs.
- double coat of short, smooth hair
Personality
- high energy dog that needs lots of exercise
- enthusiastic and boisterous
- gets along with everyone including children and enjoys playing with other dogs
- hard working and intense, loves outdoors and well suited to hunting
- intelligent and trainable but exuberant
Best Exercises
This breed is high-energy and needs a vigorous workout. Without it, this breed can become high-strung, hyperactive, frustrated or display destructive tendencies.
- Walks – Long, brisk walks (45+ minutes)
- Hikes – A great mental and physical activity for this breed. If you and your dog are in shape, pick more challenging walks.
- Dog Parks – a well-suited energy outlet for this breed, a romp in the park with some friends can give a good workout.
- Running – these are hard-working dogs and great partners for distance runs
- Hunting
- Pulling activities such as carting, scootering and skijoring
- Water play and sports like swimming, walking on the beach and dock jumping
- Dog Sport training:
- Agility
- Tracking
- Flying Disc
Suggested Exercise Plan
The ideal situation for this active breed is at least hour of hard exertion most days.
Things To Note
This breed has a tendency for developing hip dysplasia.
