A strong, athletic pointer with a close-lying coat about 3-5 cm long on the body, shorter on the head, with feathering on the legs and a plumed tail.12
Colourssolid brownbrown with white or ticked markingsdark roanlight roanwhite with brown patchesbrown and white12
Personality what they are like
An even-tempered, good-natured gundog that learns readily and settles calmly at home.1
Daily activity how busy a day looks
A versatile hunting dog built for field, forest and water work, so it needs substantial daily exercise and loves swimming and retrieving.12
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush a couple of times a week to keep the feathering tangle-free and remove loose undercoat.12
Home where they are happiest
Best in an active or hunting home with access to open country and water.1
Company who they like around
A cooperative working partner that enjoys close contact with its handler and family.1
The story where it all began
Pure breeding started in 1879, blending bird dog, hawking dog, water dog and scenthound lines. Baron Friedrich von Schorlemer-Alst founded the breed club in 1893 and wrote the 1897 standard that the modern Langhaar still follows.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
Its bloodlines combine bird dogs, hawking dogs, water dogs and scenthounds.1
2
The first breed standard was written in 1897 by Baron von Schorlemer.1
3
It is bred to point and retrieve game on land and from water.2
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed name 'German Longhaired Pointer' reflects its German origin and its long-haired coat, distinguishing it from the German Shorthaired and Wirehaired Pointers. The FCI standard notes it combines bloodlines of bird, hawk, and water dogs, and pure breeding has been carried out since 1879.3
A day in the life told by a German Longhaired Pointer
I wake to the smell of dew on the grass. My human laughs as I stretch, my feathery tail sweeping the floor. We head to the forest where I dash through puddles and retrieve sticks from the stream. After a swim, I shake off and trot beside them, nose full of rabbit trails. Back home, I curl by the fire, dreaming of tomorrow's adventures. Life is good when you can hunt by day and nap by night.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard No. 117, Group 7 (Pointing Dogs), Section 1.2 (Continental pointers, spaniel type), with working trial; accepted 1954; standard published 10 Nov 20111
A cooling, low-calorie treat that’s perfect for large dogs who love to lick and work for their food. Blueberries provide antioxidants, and plain yoghurt is gentle on the stomach.
You need
120g plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened, no additives)
50g fresh or frozen blueberries (chopped if large)
How
Mix the yoghurt and blueberries together in a small bowl.
Spoon the mixture into a Kong or similar treat-dispensing toy.
Place the stuffed Kong upright in a cup or on a tray in the freezer.
Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
Give to your dog as a supervised treat.
How much: One stuffed Kong per day for a large/giant dog, reducing their dinner portion accordingly.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my German Longhaired Pointer, and at what times?
Feed your adult German Longhaired Pointer at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Consistent meal times help with digestion and routine.4
What should a German Longhaired Pointer eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Choose a high-quality dog food appropriate for your dog's age and activity level. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, these are especially harmful to dogs.5
How often should I bathe a German Longhaired Pointer?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or spends a lot of time outdoors. Always use a dog-safe shampoo.6Pet Wiki plan
How often does a German Longhaired Pointer need brushing?
Brush your German Longhaired Pointer a couple of times a week to keep the feathering tangle-free and remove loose undercoat. During shedding season, daily brushing helps manage the coat.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a German Longhaired Pointer's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 4 weeks or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain and bleeding.6Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a German Longhaired Pointer need?
This active gundog needs substantial daily exercise, at least an hour of vigorous activity including walks, swimming, and retrieving. It thrives in a home with access to open country and water.12Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a German Longhaired Pointer's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth several times a week with a dog-specific toothpaste, and never use human toothpaste. Check the floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and dry them gently, never push anything into the ear canal.6Pet Wiki plan
How long does a German Longhaired Pointer live?
Lifespan varies by individual and care; please ask your vet for breed-specific estimates and advice on keeping your dog healthy.
Is a German Longhaired Pointer good with children and other pets?
Yes, this even-tempered and good-natured breed is known to settle calmly at home and enjoys close contact with its family. With proper socialization, it can be wonderful with children and other pets.1
Can a German Longhaired Pointer be left alone?
This breed is a cooperative working partner that thrives on close contact with its people. It may become restless if left alone for long periods, so it's best in a home where someone is around most of the day.1
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Large Münsterländer
Small Münsterländer
German Shorthaired Pointer