We are talking about the hunting dog par excellence, the English Pointer. Let us shed some light on its origins and examine the physical and temperamental traits of one of the most famous dog breeds in the world of hunting.
Origins and History of the English Pointer
The English Pointer is one of the dogs whose origins are most hotly contested in the world — essentially everyone claims parentage of this coveted breed. French, English and Spanish breeders all dig their heels in, asserting the origins of the English Pointer on the grounds that the blood of their respective countries' hunting dogs runs through its veins. Credit must undeniably go to the English, however, for having refined the breed and turning the Pointer into the most sought-after hunting dog of all time. Although its origins remain unclear, the country that most strongly claims parentage of the Pointer is Spain. According to experts, the English Pointer is thought to descend from the Spanish Pointer, which arrived in Great Britain in the early eighteenth century.
What is certain, regardless of its provenance, is that the English deserve credit for ensuring that the Pointer diverged clearly from the characteristics of the Spanish Pointer, becoming far lighter and more agile. Others still believe the English Pointer is a mix of the Italian Pointer, Foxhound, Setter, Greyhound, Bull Terrier and Bulldog. Today the Pointer is considered to be of British origin, though the matter is not entirely settled. An interesting detail is the meaning of its English name, Pointer, which derives from the verb "to point." Pointer therefore means one who points — a single word that captures everything about its attitude.
English Pointer Breed Standard
The English Pointer is a medium-sized dog. Males weigh between 18 and 34 kg, while females weigh between 16 and 30 kg. Withers height ranges from 53 to 56 cm for females and from 56 to 70 cm for males. Muscular in build, fast yet sturdy. An ideal dog for pointing, tracking and retrieving game. It moves with elegance and possesses an exceptional sense of smell. The dog's body could ideally be inscribed in a square, with perfectly balanced proportions. The limbs are long and muscular, firmly set on a round, solid bone structure. Its posture is the classic Pointer stance, as though it were always on the verge of springing into action.
The tail is set at medium height, with a broad base tapering to a very fine tip. The neck is long, with a clean profile and a slight arch. The head is well proportioned, with a wide, slightly domed forehead between the ears. The muzzle is square and rises from a very pronounced stop. The eyes are large and round, but neither prominent nor wild in expression. The colour is dark ochre, with an intelligent and alert expression. The ears are set high, triangular in shape with rounded tips. They are carried low and flat against the head. The skin is very tight and supple.
The coat is short, close and smooth. It feels fine and silky to the touch and looks particularly lustrous. The breed standard allows for several colours, including black — also with tan markings — white, fawn, red, brown and yellow, in all their various shades. Colours may appear combined with white or as solid tones.
Caring for the English Pointer: Nutrition
The health of the English Pointer presents no particular concerns, provided the dog is fed correctly from the first months of life — meaning only routine check-ups are needed. A well-cared-for specimen has a life expectancy of 14 years. Its diet must be varied and well balanced. The coat should be brushed at least once a week, with care and attention.
English Pointer Temperament
The English Pointer is the hunting dog, without any doubt. It is as captivating when it breaks into a gallop during a hunt as it is in its statuesque, legendary stillness while on point. With its owner it builds a relationship between equals, where neither is submissive and neither is dominant. Loyal, well-balanced and fully aware of its own potential, the Pointer is the dog every hunter would want. But there is more to it than that — the English dog also knows how to be an excellent life companion, and after a good run it is perfectly happy to spend time at the foot of the sofa, enjoying cuddles and a peaceful rest.
It is important to keep in mind, however, that the Pointer cannot and should not be kept solely as a house dog — it must not be deprived of space, exercise and, above all, regular hunting outings. Its training must be thoughtful, consistent and steady from the first months of life, with particular attention to socialisation with both people and other animals.
English Pointer Breeding
Between three and nine months of age, the Pointer can develop problems related to diet and the type of physical activity it undertakes, ranging from hip dysplasia to thyroid disorders. It must therefore be raised with great care in order to produce an adult dog worthy of its name, which has almost become a legend. The English Pointer is an extremely popular and widely bred dog, so if you are thinking of purchasing a puppy, it is essential to turn exclusively to ENCI-recognised breeders, who can guarantee pedigree and medical certificates and provide accurate information about the dog's growth and development.
