The site was last updated on

24 Aug 2000

Name of breed: Pointer
Class: Gundog
Recognized: AKC, ANKC, CKC, FCI, KC (GB), KUSA.
Size: Height at withers: dogs 62.5-70 cm (25-28 in)
bitches 57.5-65 cm (23-26 in)
Weight: dogs 25-33.7kg (55-75lb)
Bitches 20.2-29.5kg (45-65lb)
Coat: Short, dense and smooth
Colors: Lemon and white, orange and white, liver and white, black and white; self (pure) colors and tricolors also correct.

Like the setters, the Pointer is famed for its classic stance, pointing with nose and tail in the direction of game. It is thought by many to have originated in Spain. There is, however, a school of thought that it may be of English origin, developed through crossings of Foxhound, Bloodhound and Greyhound. Also, in the opinion of William Arkwiright, who spent a lifetime researching the history of the breed, and Pointer originated in the East and found its way to Italy before arriving in Spain.
William Arkwiright, from Sutton Scarsdale near Chesterfields in England, compiled Arkwright on pointers during the period 1890-1919. This work is still regarded as the bible on the breed. In the United Kingdom, the Pointer was accepted by the then Setter and Pointer Club in 1937, and reassessed and confirmed by the Pointer Club as recently as 1970. It was popular internationally and recognized throughout the world.

Character and care

The Pointer is a popular show dog, and admirably combines the roles of sportsman's companion and family pet. It is an affectionate, obedient dog, which is easy to train, good with children and needs only regular brushing to keep its coat in good condition. It does, however, need plenty of exercise and so is not ideally
suited to town life.