History:
The ancestry of the Pointer is obscure. Breeds such as the Spanish Setter, Portuguese Pointer, Foxhound, Greyhound and Bloodhound were possibly involved in its development. It is believed to have originated in Spain, and existed in Portugal and France before the 18th century. However, the Pointer as we know him today was perfected wholly in Great Britain. The Pointer is a gundog, which adopts an 'on point' stance after finding a game bird. Dogs point their noses towards their find and freeze in this position, often with one foreleg raised, until the hunter arrives with his gun. They have been known to hold this position for over an hour.

The first dog show in Australia in the 1800s was exclusively for pointers and setters. Pointers were probably one of the first breeds to be bought here to help with food gathering.

Appearance:
Pointers have a strong, yet lithe appearance combining strength, endurance and speed. They have a fine, short coat with a definite sheen. Colours are liver, lemon, black or orange, either solid or in combination with white. Tri-colours are also acceptable. They range in height from 61-69cm (24-27in) and weigh from 23-25kg (50-55lb). They are very neat, trim, athletic-looking dogs.

Temperament:
The Pointer has a kind, even disposition and is considered an excellent field, show and family dog. They are gentle but fun loving, and are happiest when given regular exercise and affection. Like many gundogs, they are said to be easy to train because they enjoy human interaction and are bright, affectionate and very responsive. Pointers love people, and although they may bark if someone comes into the yard, they would never bite. 

Lifespan:
Pointers usually live about 13-14 years.

Breeding:
Litters usually consist of 5-9 puppies (but we were blessed with 11 from Lacey in 2009). The pups are lighter in colour than their parents, but darken as they mature. Some puppies show hunting instincts as early as two months old.

Costs:
Puppies cost from $800-$1,000+ depending on quality.

Housepet potential:
Pointers are clean and neat and love living inside the house and sleeping on the lounge. However, they do shed short, fine, white hairs all year round.

Space and exercise:
Pointers should not be kept in flats or townhouses unless the owners are highly-committed to the dog's exercise needs. Daily exercise off the leash is ideal. This usually means having a reasonable sized backyard or living near a big area where dogs are allowed to run free.

Ideal owner:
Pointers are ideal for active families with children, or for active people who want a companion dog. They are probably too active for elderly people, and a little too boisterous for very young children.

Grooming:
Little grooming is required, except for the occasional wash and a light massage with a hand glove a few times a week. Dirt usually brushes off the short coat very easily.

Uses:
Pointers are used both in Australia and overseas as gundogs.

Popularity:
Pointers are not that well known in Australia, this is something that we are working to change. They are better known in Europe where they excel as gundogs.