German Hardcoat Pointers are loyal dogs that love two things: the freedom of the outdoors and you favorite owners. If you’re an active pet owner looking for a companion to go on your many adventures, this dog is ready and waiting to stay with you on those memories.
Origin of the breed
The German Hardhair Pointer, or German Draithaar, is a breed that is the result of crossbreeding between different types of dogs, including Poodlepointers, Bloodhounds and Foxhounds, Polish Water Dogs, and other breeds. The breed was first bred in Germany in the 19th century. They are versatile, hardy hunting dogs, able to take the trail and bring prey in any climatic conditions. The closest relative of the draithaar is the kurtshaar, but unlike the latter, draithaars have a stiff wire-like coat. The coat perfectly protects the dogs’ skin and makes them resistant to unfavorable weather conditions, due to which they have gained great popularity among hunters all over the world. The breed’s name comes from the German words “draht”, which translates to “wire”, and “haar”, which translates to “hair”, meaning “hair like wire”.
Breed description
The adult Pointer is a large dog with a height of 57-68 cm, the weight of the average representative of the breed reaches 23-32 kg, and life expectancy is 12-14 years on average. These dogs have an unforgettable appearance: they have thick eyebrows, whiskers and a sparse beard. They are medium-sized dogs, which almost do not suffer from obesity, although with a large diet and lack of physical activity can have extra pounds. Pointers can be such colors: gray (gray), brown with a white spot on the chest or without it, as well as brown or black with gray colors, with or without spots. Tails are often trimmed, but dogs can also be found with untrimmed tails.
Poynter Character
Representatives of this breed are noble, balanced obedient dogs that have a firm and courageous character. They are always loyal to the owner and very attached to all members of their family, affectionate and gentle to children and will never miss an opportunity to play with them. These dogs do not always get along with other pets in the family: he can tolerate those animals with which he is familiar from childhood, but new animals in the house are likely to irritate him, and if they are birds or decorative rodents, they can become a prey to the bearded hunter. If it is properly educated and take into account the features of the breed, he will become a loyal friend and companion. These dogs are ideal for hunting birds and small game, thanks to their endurance and ability to work in different conditions.
Poynter training
In addition to their need for a lot of exercise, German Draithaars are relatively unpretentious to care for and maintain. Like other energetic sporting dogs, these dogs need outdoor activities such as long hikes and swimming. Physical exercise and mental stimulation in the form of learning new tricks, playing hunt, rally or agility games will keep your Pet happy and healthy. Because of their high intelligence and good memory, Pointers are easy to train. This dog can make a good guard dog, although it has no aggression towards humans at all, it does have an instinct to protect its territory. Sometimes hard-haired pointers are used for police work, thanks to their keen sense of smell they easily find drugs, explosives and other prohibited substances. And high efficiency, endurance and sensitivity make them good rescuers and participants of long hunting expeditions. Can work both on land and water, but without activity they can become restless and destructive. With proper training, they are a loyal and responsive four-legged friend.
Poynter Nutrition
Pointers need a high quality diet to keep them active and healthy. Their diet should be rich in protein and healthy fats. Adult dogs should be fed 2 times a day with balanced meals, and their diet should include beef, chicken, turkey and fish such as salmon, which is rich in Omega 3, or other varieties of fish. He also likes carrots, zucchini, broccoli, and of cereals – rice, oatmeal, buckwheat.
Trimming of Hard Coated Pointers
If you want your hard-haired dog to look always neat and well-groomed, then trimming should be done every 3-4 months. It is best to do it in a salon with professional tools, a good master will do everything quickly and qualitatively, because doing it at home you can do a lot of damage to the animal. Dogs of this breed can not be cut, for them is suitable only hygienic haircut, or a little trim the hair, but carry out this procedure carefully to preserve the characteristic appearance and protective properties of the hair. Dog trimming requires experience and knowledge of the specific breed. It helps the dog feel comfortable, look attractive and maintain its natural defense against the environment.
This breed’s versatility, intelligence and endurance make them ideal for active people who love hunting and the outdoors. These dogs will bring joy, activity and loyalty into your life and will become reliable friends and companions in all your adventures.
