![Pointer Dog Breed](/sites/default/files/styles/square_medium_440x440/public/2022-07/Pointer.jpg?itok=TfJ5rrnP)
Family-friendly: | 5/5 |
Exercise needs: | 5/5 |
Easy to train: | 5/5 |
Tolerates being alone: | 1/5 |
Likes other pets: | 5/5 |
Energy level: | 5/5 |
Grooming needs: | 3/5 |
Shedding: | 3/5 |
The Pointer breed is a relatively hardy breed but can be prone to:
- Hip dysplasia
- Gastric dilatation volvulus
- Hypothyroidism¹ where the thyroid gland is underactive and does not product enough thyroid hormone. This can result in low energy levels, weight gain and skin problems.
Priority Kennel Club health schemes and testing:
None but there are several recommended schemes that the Kennel Club recommends which can be found here.
¹R. F. Nachreiner et al, 'Prevalence of serum thyroid hormone autoantibodies in dogs with clinical signs of hypothyroidism', 2002, Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association.
As companion dogs, Pointers are friendly and affectionate, and get on well with other dogs and even cats if introduced when young. They are closely bonded to their families and love to be included in everything that is going on. They are sensitive, intelligent and friendly and are welcoming of just about everybody. They are not ideal guard dogs but they will generally bark when someone comes to the door. As long as they are getting the exercise they need, they are quiet dogs in the house.