The English Pointer: the dog with an upturned nose
The English Pointer, also known simply as the “Pointer,” is a dog breed of British origin.
Its historical roots go back to the 18th century, when it was mainly used as a hunting dog because of its exceptional sniffer.
The Pointer is believed to be the result of crosses between several breeds, including the Greyhound and some terriers, as well as hounds and hounds for following.
This combination has given the Pointer a lively temperament, great stamina and excellent hunting skills.
The evolution of Pointers took place in a very particular social and domestic context.
During the Victorian era, the need for elite hunting dogs led to the selection of specimens with increasingly pronounced characteristics, seeking superior performance in terms of sniffing.
The official recognition of the breed
In the United States, the breed gained popularity in the 19th century, where it was further refined and recognized by theAmerican Kennel Club(AKC) in 1878.
Today, the English Pointer is recognized by numerous dog organizations worldwide, including theFédération Cynologique Internationale(FCI) and theAmerican Kennel Club.
The Pointer is prized for its athletic qualities and distinctive appearance, which have ensured its prominence both in the world of dog lovers and among outdoor sports enthusiasts.
The physical characteristics of the English Pointer
The English Pointer is a medium-sized dog, characterized by a muscular and well-proportioned body; it ranges in height from 58 to 64 centimeters at the withers, weighing between 25 and 34 kilograms, depending on sex.
The head is square in shape, with medium-length ears hanging close to the head and expressive dark-colored eyes and an adorable upturned nose.
The coat is short, smooth and close-fitting, available in a variety of colors that can include white, lemon, orange and black, often with spots.
The legs are strong and well-muscled, designed to support excellent speed and endurance while running.
What is the character of the English Pointer
The English Pointer is known for its cheerful, sociable and affectionate nature: it is a dog that bonds strongly with its family.
He loves company and adapts well to domestic life, as long as he is always involved in daily activities that stimulate him.
An interesting fact related to the English Pointer is its specialization in “stop“, a hunting technique in which the dog freezes in front of the prey, thus indicating its positioning to its handler.
This distinctive behavior not only demonstrates the Pointer’s hunting ability, but also his natural instincts and the strong bond he forms with his human.
In addition, Pointers are known for their extraordinary ability to cope with long distances, making them ideal companions for lovers of hiking and outdoor activities.
Pathologies
Like many other breeds, the English Pointer can be prone to certain diseases.
Among the most common are hip and elbow dysplasias, which can cause pain and limitation in movement.
Other conditions to watch out for include certain eye diseases, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, which can impair a dog’s vision.
It is essential to give Pointers regular veterinary checkups and provide them with a balanced diet and adequate exercise to prevent obesity and other health-related issues.
To have your English Pointer checked, for vaccines and periodic check-ups, contact the veterinary doctors on our staff who are always available to you.
We would also like to remind you that Clinica La Veterinaria is always open h24 every day including holidays and with First Aid service from 8 pm to 8 am.
