The Pointer is one of the most valued breeds of hunting dogs in the hunting world. Known for its exceptional ‘pointing’ ability and unrivalled speed and endurance, this dog has earned a privileged place in hunting clubs and specialised competitions.
The following is a detailed technical analysis of its physical attributes, temperament, working abilities and other aspects essential to understanding and making the most of this breed.
Origin and Classification
The Pointer has its origins in Europe, specifically in England and the English Pointer breed region, and is classified in FCI Group 7 for pointers. Its structure has been carefully selected over generations to achieve a perfect balance of agility, power and endurance. This breed combines genetic heritage and well-defined work, being the result of historical crossbreeding for big and small game.
Physical Characteristics
The Pointer breed standard is extremely rigorous and technical, which ensures that each specimen has an ideal morphology for hunting work:
Head and Cranial Region
- Skull: Of medium width in proportion to the length of the muzzle, with a distinct occipital protuberance. The stop is clearly defined, allowing a good facial integration.
- Muzzle: Slightly concave, ending at the level of the nose. This feature favours an outstanding sense of smell, essential for detecting the presence of prey.
- Nose : Dark and, in some dogs, lighter in dogs with lemon or white coat. It is soft and moist, which ensures a great sensitivity in the perception of odours.
- Eyes: Moderate in size, set equidistant from occiput and nose, with alert and friendly expression. They vary in colour from brown to hazel, allowing accurate vision in well-lit conditions.
- Ears: Set on high, of medium length and slightly pointed, allowing good sound pick-up without hindering the animal’s all-round vision.
Neck and Trunk
- NECK: Long, muscular and slightly curved, without dewlap, which contributes to good extension and flexibility during gallop.
- Loin and Chest: The loin is strong, muscular and slightly domed, while the chest has the necessary width for optimum development of the sternal musculature. The ribs are well sprung and integrate smoothly with the loin, allowing for proper breathing during physical exertion.
Limbs and Movement
- Forequarters: Straight and firm from elbow to ground. The shoulders are distinguished by their oblique backward slope, which enhances the speed and reach of the stride. The forefeet are oval with sturdy pads, offering stability on uneven ground.
- Hindquarters: Highly muscled, with distinct hips and strong legs providing most of the drive. The hind feet are also oval in structure to ensure a good grip.
- Movement: The Pointer is characterised by a straight gallop, with a stable topline and without excessive movement. Its ability to cover long distances consistently is due to the powerful hindquarters musculature. The technical description highlights the ‘gait’ as an impetuous gallop, in which the trunk swings minimally and the head remains high, reflecting great security and efficiency in the search for prey.
Coat and Colours
- Coat: Fine, short and harsh, evenly distributed, giving a smooth and glossy appearance. The usual colours are combinations of lemon and white, orange and white, liver (brown) and white, as well as black and white. Variation in colouring is acceptable as long as harmony is maintained and the standard is complied with.
- Size and Weight: According to the breed criteria, the height at withers for the male should be between 63 and 69 cm, while for the bitch it is between 61 and 66 cm. These measurements ensure a balanced structure adapted to the demands of hunting work.
Temperament and Behaviour
The Pointer is a hunting dog with an aristocratic yet active character. Its temperament is defined by:
- Agility and speed: It has a great capacity of response, which allows it to detect and follow the prey with determination. Efficiency in galloping and the way he moves like a “power train” is proof of his innate hunting instinct.
- Signalling instinct: This breed is famous for its ability to ‘point’, i.e. to stop in a characteristic position when it detects the presence of prey, keeping its gaze fixed and its body motionless, which makes it easier for the hunter to locate the animal.
- Persevering character: His performance in the field is reinforced by an unwavering perseverance, which allows him to keep up the pace and cover long distances without losing his concentration.
- Good character: Despite its undoubted hunting nature, the Pointer is, in essence, a sociable and well-balanced dog, which allows it to integrate well both in the family environment and in the workplace with its handler.
Training and Health
Training the Pointer is essential for channelling its powerful hunting instinct. It is recommended to begin with early socialisation and basic obedience exercises, followed by the introduction of specific pointing and searching practices. Positive reinforcement methodology is very effective with this breed, emphasising play and rewarding attention and correct behaviour during training sessions.
In terms of health, Pointers are generally robust, but as with all active breeds, regular veterinary checks are important. Attention should be paid to:
- Coxofemoral dysplasia: Although less common in working breeds, it is always prudent to monitor the condition of the hips.
- Dermatological problems: Constant exposure and activity in varied climates can predispose to skin and coat conditions.
- Dental care: Good oral hygiene is essential to prevent diseases that can affect performance and well-being.
The Pointer is a breed of hunting dog noted for its exceptional aptitude for hunting work, combining a robust and elegant physical structure with an active, persevering and balanced temperament. Its outstanding ability to cover long distances at high speed and its instinct for signalling make it indispensable in the field, while its aesthetic and behavioural characteristics make it one of the quintessential representatives of hunting with dogs.
The technical description, ranging from skull conformation and body structure to standards of movement and temperament, is fundamental to understanding why the Pointer is so highly prized in the hunting world. For those looking for a reliable, hardy and perfectly adapted to the demands of the terrain, the Pointer represents the perfect synthesis of tradition and efficiency.
