German Shorthaired Pointer gundog training: an age by age plan
The German Shorthaired Pointer is an athletic, wide ranging HPR breed, bred to find game, point it steadily and then retrieve once required.
Temperament in training
Confident, energetic and independent minded, needing plenty of exercise and mental work alongside its formal training.
The plan
8 to 16 weeks
Settling in, gentle handling and the first foundations of heelwork and steadiness.
4 to 6 months
Recall and the first free ranging, natural pointing games.
6 to 12 months
Wider ground pattern work and confidence in water.
12 to 24 months
Quartering into the wind, delivery under distraction and directional casts.
Working age
Working test level cover work, blind handling and off lead heelwork.
Field fitness for the German Shorthaired Pointer
- This is a lean, athletic breed that needs building fitness gradually, especially before long sessions of ground work.
- Short coats mean less grooming but no less need to check for ticks and grass seeds after every session.
- Ask a vet about hip and elbow scoring and general joint health before starting demanding retrieve or handling work.
- Watch for signs of tiredness on hot days, as this breed will often keep working past sensible limits.
General guidance only. Talk to your vet about anything specific to your dog.
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