The Pointer Dog has an instinct for hunting birds all the time, so it always needs a lot of exercise every day both outside and inside the house. Because this dog has a natural instinct for hunting, it can be easily distracted by things that happen around it every day. The Pointer is a very kind and gentle dog and also very active so do not be fooled by the high amount of energy that this gentle dog displays.

The origin of the Pointer Breed

It was during the 17^th century that the Pointer dogs were first used for hunting. At that time these dogs were not used to point birds but were used to point hares. Once they pointed out the hares, the hunters would send off Greyhound Dogs to chase them.

Wing-shooting became a very popular sport in the 18^th century. It was during these wing-hunting expeditions that the Pointer dog displayed its talent to locate birds. Hunters with a well trained Pointer dog would send out his dog to locate the prey. Once the prey was located the dog would remain very still in order to have the hunter make a good shot.

It is well known that the genetic makeup of the early Pointer dogs have many different blood types. Some of these blood types include those from the Bloodhounds, Foxhounds, Greyhounds and older Setting Spaniels.

Modern day Pointers are a result of a mixture of the older Spanish Pointers and the Italian Pointers. Soon, the most popular use of these dogs became sport hunting which was done on large areas of land. One of the most effective strategies was for the hunter to use two Pointer dogs to find a bird. In this way the hunter was able to cross-check the dogs points.

Care and Attention for the Pointer Dog

If you want to own a Pointer Dog, you need to know that this wonderful pet requires a lot of exercise every day. This dog, more than other dogs, needs to run and play every single day.

You should not own a Pointer Dog if you live in a small apartment and have limited outdoor activities.  The Pointer should have a home with a lot of open space to allow it to hunt outdoors. The Pointer dogs are happiest if they are allowed to roam in the woods looking for small prey.

These dogs do not like to remain in the house all day. If these dogs are not active even for a day they can  become destructive. It is important that these dogs have a large open area outdoors, to play during the day, but they should be allowed to sleep indoors with the family during the night.

Health Issues for the Pointer Dog

The major health problem connected with these dogs is entropion.  Minor problems may include hypothyroidism and CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia). Although very rare, Pointer dogs may show signs of deafness and cataracts. It is important that you have your Pointer dog tested by a veterinarian for any eye, hip or thyroid problem. Pointer Dogs may live between twelve to fourteen years, with some living up to fifteen years.

Quick Stats for the Labrador Retriever Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm) ; bitches: 21 – 23 inches (53 – 58 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 60 – 75 pounds (27 – 34 kg)  ; bitches: 55 – 70 pounds (25 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1917
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Labrador Retriever Dog Breed

The most popular dog breed in the United States for 19 years in a row, the lovable Labrador Retriever is the family dog par excellence. Great for families and gentle with children, Labs also make devoted dogs for single people and couples. Their affectionate natures, intelligence and willingness to please make them good at everything they do.

The Labrador Retriever is found in black, chocolate and yellow. Labs excel at many kinds of work, including being guide dogs, search and rescue dogs, assistance dogs, narcotics dogs, and working with police departments. The Lab continues to work in the field as a retriever and hunter. He is perhaps unrivaled as a water dog and is enthusiastic in agility, obedience and rally. If you want a dog that can do it all, the Labrador Retriever may be the dog for you.

History of the Labrador Retriever Dog Breed

Ironically, this most popular of all dogs in America (and Great Britain) hails from Canada. Originally from Newfoundland, the St. John Water Dog, as he was then known, first became known for helping fishermen with their nets and catches. Small water dogs were crossed with Newfoundlands to produce these St. John Water Dogs — named after the St. John Waterway.

Great swimmers, these water dogs could withstand cold temperatures in the water. It was only later that the dogs were bred with sporting dogs, such as Setters, Spaniels and other Retrievers to produce the Labrador Retriever that we know today. Once dedicated to retrieving, the Lab took to it like a duck to water, if you’ll excuse the pun. Labs were superb at retrieving water fowl, thanks to their previous heritage as fishermen’s dogs.

Early in the 19th century the Earl of Malmesbury supposedly imported one of the small water dogs from Newfoundland. By 1830 the small water dogs were already being admired. They were black and no bigger than a Pointer.

It was only later that the Earl of Malmesbury admitted he had always referred to the dogs as “Labradors.” Unfortunately, this early version of the Labrador — the St. John’s Water dog — died out in Newfoundland due to a high tax on dogs and an English quarantine law which virtually stopped the importation of the dogs into England. The Labs that remained were interbred with other Retrievers and sporting dogs. Fortunately Lab characteristics remained and fanciers of Labrador Retrievers were able to create a breed standard to stop the interbreeding and preserve the dogs.

Today’s Labrador Retrievers date back to dogs from 1878. The Kennel Club in Britain recognized the Labrador Retriever as a breed in 1903. Labrador Retrievers came to the United States from Britain around 1917. British dogs continued to come into the U.S. in great numbers during the 1920s and ‘30s, forming the basis for the breed in the U.S.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1917 as a member of the Sporting Group.

The Labrador Retriever Dog Breed Care and Grooming

These dogs must be fairly active on a daily basis.  Labrador retrievers must have daily exercise in the form of running and swimming.  Retrieving, however, is at the top of the list of fun games that Labs really enjoy, especially through water such as the beach or even a large outdoor swimming pool.

These dogs can either live indoors where it’s warm and cozy, or remain outdoors during all types of weather. Be sure to adhere to common sense safety rules when keeping your lab outside during the hot humid months, or the chilling winter temperatures. However, like most dogs, a Labrador Retriever would prefer to be inside with its family and stable temperatures.

Health Problems of the Labrador Retriever Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Labrador Retriever Dog Breed is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• elbow dysplasia
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• OCD (Osteochondritis Dissecans)
• patellar luxation
• obesity

These other issues can occur:

• diabetes
• tricuspid valve dysplasia
• over-exercise (leading to collapse)
• distichiasis
• muscular dystrophy

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Quick Stats for the Irish Water Spaniel Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): 20 – 23 inches (51 – 58 cm)
• Weight: 45 – 65 pounds (20 – 30 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1884
• Shedding: sheds little to no hair
• Living Conditions: best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Irish Water Spaniel Dog Breed

The Irish Water Spaniel is an enthusiastic and vigorous member of the sporting group. These dogs absolutely love to run for hours at a time, swim, play, and hunt. The Irish Water Spaniel also has a funny side, and tends to clown around when having a good time.

Along with these wonderful characteristics, this breed has a high rating in terms of training ability and makes an excellent watchdog.

A bit stubborn and quite independent, the Irish Water Spaniel tends to be reserved around strange people and other pets, but is generally good around children.

History of the Irish Water Spaniel Dog Breed

One of the most distinctive members of the spaniel group, not to mention one of the oldest, the Irish Water Spaniel is reported to have been depicted in various manuscripts from as long as 1,000 years ago.

During the 1100s, there is mention of these dogs by various names, including Rat Tail Spaniels, Shannon Spaniels, and Whip Tail Spaniels. The name Irish Water Spaniel has been found to be the reference to the breed from approximately 1600 and on. Sometime during that period researches documented that an Irish Water Spaniel was given as a gift to the King of France.

Now we do not exactly know whether or not the breed existed in different varieties at this time or if there were just similar breeds that resembled one another. However, what we do know is that in Ireland there were various similar spaniels in existence. They were the Tweed Spaniels, Southern Irish Spaniels, and the Northern Irish Spaniels.

The one type of spaniel listed above that is said to be mostly responsible to the influence of today’s Irish Water Spaniel is the Southern Irish Spaniel, which is also known as McCarthy’s Breed. The breed was part of the show ring by the late 1800s, in both the United States and Britain, and by 1875 it was considered the most popular dog of the time. Today, the Irish Water Spaniel is rarely found as a common pet or in the show ring.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1884 as a member of the Sporting Group.

The Irish Water Spaniel Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Sporting dogs need plenty of daily exercise and the Irish Water Spaniel must have mental exercise to match. Plan on giving your Water Spaniel at least one hour of daily stimulation each day.

They are inquisitive and sensitive to your needs which makes them easy to train. And a well-trained spaniel makes a great watch dog.

Like all dogs, the Irish Water Spaniel will lose its coat ever so often, but because of its curly coat the hairs do not fall off; instead they become trapped in the other hairs. This means regular brushing so that the dog’s coat does not form cords and mats.

Health Problems of the Irish Water Spaniel Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Irish Water Spaniel Dog breed is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• otitis externa
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

Minor health issues include:

• distichiasis

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• nail-bed disease
• seizures
• megaesophagus

Veterinarians recommend having the Irish Water Spaniel Dog Breed tested specifically for hip problems.

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Quick Stats for the Irish Setter Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 26 – 28 inches (66 – 71 cm) ; bitches: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 65 – 75 pounds (29 – 34 kg)  ; bitches: 55 – 65 pounds (25 – 29 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 11 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1878
• Shedding: constant shedder; light shedder; heavy shedder twice per year
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; best with a large sized yard

Personality of the Irish Setter Dog Breed

The Irish Setter is a beautiful, happy-go-lucky dog that was bred to hunt enthusiastically with lots of energy.

This dog breed has a natural sense of happiness and excitability towards life. He makes a fantastic companion with both adults and children so long as there is enough activity to keep the dog happy. In fact, if the Irish Setter does not get enough daily exercise then he can become easily frustrated and sensitive toward distractions.

The Irish Setter is a friendly breed of dog which takes great pleasure in pleasing its owners and the rest of the family.  Although he would make an ideal pet for a family with kids, it is noted that the Irish Setter may be a little too rough and excitable with very small children.

History of the Irish Setter Dog Breed

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1878 as a member of the AKC Sporting Group.

The Irish Setter Dog Breed Care and Grooming

When it comes to raising an Irish Setter, we can not stress enough how important it is for this animal to get plenty of exercise.  If you are thinking about getting a new dog and would like to have an Irish Setter, then you need to consider your lifestyle and understand that he will not be happy as your pet if you are not the active type.  You would be doing a great injustice by raising an Irish Setter and then living a sedentary lifestyle while never taking the dog outside.

How much exercise is recommended? Plan on running this dog breed hard for at least one hour of strenuous activity and exertion on a daily basis. The Irish Setter is one particular breed of dog that is not suited for living in a small apartment.

The ideal living situation would be that of a large fenced-in yard with plenty of room for him to move around. The Irish Setter can live perfectly happy as an outdoor dog and during warm temperatures, however, as with most dogs, he would need to be inside during the cold winter months.

Grooming this dog breed must be a daily routine.  With his long coat he needs regular brushing and the occasional trim so that he can look his best.

Health Problems of the Irish Setter Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Irish Setter Dog Breed is about eleven to fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• gastric torsion
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)

Minor health issues include:

• HOD (hypertrophic osteodystrophy)
• hypothyroidism
• megaesophagus
• osteosarcoma
• panosteitis

Veterinarians recommend having the Irish Setter Dog Breed tested specifically for thyroid, DNA for PRA, eye problems, hip dysplasia, and cardiac.

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Quick Stats for the Gordon Setter Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 27 inches (61 – 69 cm) ; bitches: 23 – 26 inches (58 – 66 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 55 – 80 pounds (25 – 36 kg)  ; bitches: 45 – 70 pounds (20 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1884
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; relatively inactive indoors; best with large sized, fenced yard

Personality of the Gordon Setter Dog Breed

Considered to be one of the most reliable bird dogs in the sporting group, the Gordon Setter can run and hunt for an entire day if left up to him. With seemingly endless energy and always on the looking for a bird, this breed needs constant time outside in large, open land to roam and hunt.

The Gordon Setter not only makes an excellent hunter, they also make fun, enthusiastic pets that thrive on the company of people. This breed may at times be a bit more protective than other setters when it comes to its “pack”, but because of this trait the Gordon Setter makes an excellent watch dog.

History of the Gordon Setter Dog Breed

As early as the 1600s, the Black and Tan Setter was in existence in Scotland. Then, sometime during the late 1800s, we see that the breed established itself as the Gordon Castle Setter. The reason for the name reference was due to the Fourth Duke of Gordon, who was a big fan of the dog and had many of them living in his Castle.

Even after the passing of the Fourth Duke of Gordon, continuous efforts were made to breed only the finest of setters at the Gordon Castle. The breed’s name was soon changed back to its original name, the Black and Tan Setter, at around the year 1900, but the English Kennel Club restored the name Gordon Setter when it made the breed an official member of the organization.

The Gordon Setter first made its way to the United States sometime during the middle 1800s. In fact, they were among one of the first breeds to become recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC), and remains one of the favorites of the sporting group with hunters that desire a talented, one-man shooting partner.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1884 as a member of the Sporting Group.

The Gordon Setter Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Like all sporting dogs, the Gordon Setter must have plenty of daily exercise. Strenuous activity is preferred as this is one dog with an insatiable appetite for action. Gordon Setters also may become overweight quickly if kept cooped up all day. For this reason alone they are not suited for small apartment living.

These dogs are able to live outside if need be, so long as the climate is temperate, but like all loving family pets, they should have ample time to spend with the family; sleeping indoors at night is ideal. And with its long, lustrous coat, the Gordon Setter needs regular brushing every two to three days.

Health Problems of the Gordon Setter Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Gordon Setter Dog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• gastric torsion

Minor health issues include:

• elbow dysplasia
• hypothyroidism
• cerebellar abiotrophy
• PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy)

Veterinarians recommend having the Gordon Setter Dog tested specifically for elbow, hip, eye, and thyroid problems.

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Quick Stats for the Golden Retriever Dog Breed

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm) ; bitches: 20 – 22 inches (51 – 56 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 60 – 80 pounds (27 – 36 kg)  ; bitches: 55 – 70 pounds (25 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1925
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with medium to large sized yard

Personality of the Golden Retriever Dog Breed

The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular breeds of dog in the United States today. These handsome dogs make great family dogs and popular companions. Their intelligence, desire to please, gentle temperament and good looks have made them one of the the most beloved of all dogs.

The Golden Retriever maintains the following qualities: high affection levels, friendliness towards strange people and other foreign animals, very easy to train, and always playful.

This dog is known as “everyone’s friend” and is widely appreciated for its companionship towards family. Golden Retrievers are highly physical animals and have been known to lead towards behavior problems when there is a lack of activity.  In fact, poor breeding practices have produced Golden Retrievers who are overly boisterous and excitable when left in house.  However, a properly bred Retriever is one that will remain calm when trained, yet energetic when given the opportunity to play outside.

Today the Golden Retriever excels at everything he does. He is known as an outstanding retriever in the field. He is an excellent obedience dog. He shines at agility. And he is a remarkable guide, assistance, and search and rescue dog.

History of the Golden Retriever Dog Breed

The Golden is a relatively recent breed, at least compared with many of the ancient breeds of dogs. It was only in the late 1800s that the breed originated in the Highlands of Scotland. The creation of the Golden Retriever was no accident. Instead, the breed was developed by Lord Tweedmouth who set out to develop a perfect retriever for his Scottish estates, climate and game. In order to breed the kind of dog he wanted, Lord Tweedmouth bred his original “Yellow Retriever” and the Tweed Water Spaniel (extinct now) which was found on his estate. Later he introduced infusions of Irish Setter, Bloodhound and more Tweed Water Spaniel to produce the Golden Retriever known today.

That first breeding of the Yellow Retriever to the Tweed Water Spaniel (Nous to Belle) produced four yellow puppies which were the earliest Golden Retrievers. Tweed Water Spaniels were special to Lord Tweedmouth’s estate. They were light-colored, hardy spaniels used for retrieving. These dogs were also known for their intelligence, courage and ability. They passed all of these traits on to their Golden Retriever descendants.

The records for Lord Tweedmouth’s breedings were, fortunately, preserved by his gamekeepers from about 1835-1880 and released by his great-nephew in 1952. The breed is fortunate to have such a record of its development.

Golden Retrievers were first shown in England in 1908 at the Crystal Palace show where they were listed as “Flat Coats” or Flat-Coated Retrievers (a different breed). Yellow or Golden Retrievers became popular at the end of the 19th century. They obtained separate status as a breed in 1913 when the Golden Retriever Club was formed in England.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1925 as a member of the Sporting Group.

The Golden Retriever Care and Grooming

Upkeep of the Golden Retriever must include daily physical exercise.  Runs through the sand, long walks on the leash, and of course retrieving games are all highly recommended to keep this animal happy.  Human interaction and social events are also desired by the Golden Retriever.

This dog can live both indoors and outdoors.  However, indoor living is what best suits the Golden Retriever.  Because of its need for human interaction and companionship, it is best to make room for your Retriever inside the house so that he can love and be loved by the rest of family as much as possible.

Health Problems of the Golden Retriever Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the Golden Retriever Dog is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• dog skin problems
• hot spots
• ear infections
• dog allergies
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• lymphoma
• hemangiosarcoma

Minor health issues include:

• hypothyroidism
• elbow dysplasia
• potential eye disorders
• mast cell tumors
• seizures

Veterinarians recommend having the Golden Retriever Dog Breed tested specifically for thyroid, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, cardiac issues, and potential eye problems.

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Quick Stats for the German Wirehaired Pointer

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 24 – 26 inches (61 – 66 cm) ; bitches: 22 – 24 inches (56 – 61 cm)
• Weight: 60 – 70 pounds (27 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1959
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; very active indoors; best with large sized yard

Personality of the German Wirehaired Pointer Dog Breed

The German Wirehaired Pointer is both a friendly companion and a tough bird dog. Like all sporting dogs, this canine has seemingly endless energy and can roam the land and run for hours. Because of this high level of energy, the German Wirehaired Pointer must have daily exercise and live with a family that enjoys spending time outdoors.

Considered to be a bit stubborn (in a good way), the German Wirehaired Pointer makes an excellent watchdog and guard dog. Because of these qualities, the breed tends to be quite overprotective of its owners and does not fare well with people it doesn’t know. The same goes for strange dogs that crosses paths with a German Wirehaired Pointer.

But despite it’s protective personality and aggressive attitude towards strange people and animals, the German Wirehaired Pointer makes an excellent family pet that can be playful with children (so long as the children are not overly aggressive during play).

History of the German Wirehaired Pointer Dog

There was a time when game bird hunting was not accessible to the average man. Before long, all levels of society were able to freely hunt and spot birds for prey. For such a day’s hunt, an excellent hunting breed was needed. The quest for a talented and versatile hunting dog made its popularity known in Germany, which produced the German Wirehaired Pointer – one of Germany’s most successful sporting breeds.

The German Wirehaired Pointer was created out of the hunter’s desire to have a dog that could find and point to upland game, track injured game, face tough prey, retrieve from land or water, all the while making an excellent watch dog. In addition to function, the breed needed to maintain a rough, durable and wiry coat that could protect the dog when hunting through heavy brush and bristle.

The most heavily influential ancestor of the breed was the Pudelpointer, which was a combination of the Pointer and the German Pudel. It was then crossed with the Griffon, the early German Wirehaired Pointer, Polish Water Dog, and the Stichelhaar.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1959.

The German Wirehaired Pointer Dog Breed Care and Grooming

As mentioned in the beginning of this breed profile, owning a German Wirehaired Pointer means providing the dog with tons of daily exercise. Typical walks on the leash will not be enough to expend the energy this canine needs each day.

The best living situation for the German Wirehaired Pointer to have is plenty of property to run around on during the day. This dog can do quite well when living outside. Because of its rough, wiry coat it can far well in colder temperatures, but as with any dog, sleeping inside with the rest of the family is advised.

Health Problems of the German Wirehaired Pointer Dog Breed

The average life expectancy of the German Wirehaired Pointer is about twelve to fourteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

However, overall this is a very healthy breed.

Minor health issues include:

• hypothyroidism

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• elbow dysplasia
• gastric torsion
• entropion
• seizures
• heart disease

Veterinarians recommend having the German Wirehaired Pointer Dog Breed tested specifically for cardiac, elbow, hip, and thyroid problems.

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Quick Stats for the German Shorthaired Pointer

• Height (at the shoulders): dogs: 23 – 25 inches (59 – 64 cm) ; bitches: 21 – 23 inches (53 – 58 cm)
• Weight: dogs: 55 – 70 pounds (25 – 32 kg)  ; bitches: 45 – 60 pounds (20 – 27 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1930
• Shedding: average shedder
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; best with large sized yard; best with an active family

Personality of the German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Breed

The German Shorthaired Pointer, also known as the German Short-haired Pointing Dog, Deutsch Kurzhaar, or the GSP, is one dog that could live its entire life, day in and day out, simply running around hunting in the field.

The temperament of this animal is one that makes an excellent watchdog, has an abundance of energy, and requires heavy exercise.  It is a devoted and loyal family pet that may prove to be a little too boisterous for small children.  And because of its genetic design for hunting, the German Shorthaired Pointer may get a bit aggressive with other household pets, especially those that are smaller in size.

History of the German Shorthaired Pointer Dog Breed

The German Shorthaired Pointer is probably the most skilled hunter of all dog breeds.  It is versatile and has the ability to trail, retrieve, point, and even kill game if necessary. These attributes are the result of specific blending of breeds during the 17th century.

The first mixes produced a large hound-like dog from combining the Spanish Pointer with the Hannover Hound. The dogs that came from this mixture had the natural ability to trail and point at the same time. They also showed a heavy interest in birds and various mammals. When trailing, the dogs would bay and dispatch wounded prey (and fox).

Early breeders all had one thing in common: they wanted to create a Pointer that could be an “all purpose hunter”. However, not everyone agreed on the best way to do it. Many crosses were made with the English Pointer, although controversial, but it did bestow upon a breed with very stylish physical characteristics which also hunted nose-up.

One of the downsides to this mix was that the dogs had a dislike of water and avoided attacking quarry. In time, however, further breeding of the dogs help eliminate these unwanted characteristics of the Pointer.

Sometime during the early 1800′s, at the German Derby, there were two specific Deutsch Kurzhaars (the name that the Pointer was originally called) that had distinguished themselves from all of the other pointing breeds. Their names were Treff and Nero. These two Pointers are said to be the parents of today’s German Shorthaired Pointer. Their descendants helped get the breed recognized in Germany in the late 1800s.

The first German Shorthaired Pointers started to show up in the United States sometime in the 1920s. The breed gained recognition by the AKC in 1930.  Soon enough, the dog’s reputation as being the ideal hunting dog grew in popularity. Due to its hunting skills, combined with its aesthetic look, this dog has become quite popular.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1930.

The German Shorthaired Pointer Care and Grooming

As you can probably guess, care and maintenance of the German Shorthaired Pointer requires lots of exercise on a daily basis. This dog thrives on mental stimulation just as much as it does physical exertion. You can achieve these things by taking your Pointer hunting, running, hiking; anything that gets the animal to play outdoors with its owner.

This is one dog that is not suited for small apartment living.  The ideal situation would be access to a fenced-in yard at all times.

Health Problems of the German Shorthaired Pointer Breed

The average life expectancy of the German Shorthaired Pointer dog breed is about twelve to fifteen years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• lymphedema

Minor health issues include:

• pannus
• vWD (Von Willebrand’s Disease)
• gastric torsion
• OCD
• entropion
• hypothyroidism

These other issues can occur, but are rarely seen:

• thyroid issues
• cardiac problems
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

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• Height (at the shoulders): 22 – 23 inches (56 – 58 cm)
• Weight: 60 – 70 pounds (27 – 32 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 12 – 14 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1915
• Shedding: constant shedder; light shedder; heavy shedder twice per year
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; relatively inactive indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Flat Coated Retriever Dog Breed

There is nothing better than a dog that loves to hunt all day yet end the adventure with boundless affection for its family. The Flat Coated Retriever is such dog. With a sweet and exuberant personality, this breed is one of the most loving members of the sporting group.

Devoted, loyal and playful, the Flat Coated Retriever is the perfect family pet for those that enjoy spending lots of time outdoors, yet loves nothing more than quiet evenings in the house.

Regular, daily exercise is a requirement to keeping this breed happy. The Flat Coated Retriever also has a sensitive mindset which makes it very easy to train.

History of the Flat Coated Retriever

To get a grasp on the history of the Flat Coated Retriever we need to start at Newfoundland, during the 19th century, when retrieving was hugely popular with fisherman who needed trustworthy canines to help bring back fish and other objects from the water.

Cod fisheries used Labradors as the most common dog (not the same Labrador Retriever as we know of today). They also used various sized Newfoundland dogs. In time, technology advanced with its creation of firearms and hunters had the new ability to shoot from short distances and needed a dog that could retrieve the fallen foul.

The fisher dogs preferred were natural swimmers and retrievers so they were used to cross with British setters and pointers to further enhance the dog’s bird senses. The result is the Wavy Coated Retriever, which quickly grew in popularity in England and the United States.

Sometime toward the end of the 1800s, breeders crossed the Wavy Coated Retriever with breeds that had straighter hair on the coat because it was thought that the wavy coat was not as water repellent as straighter hair.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1915 as a member of the Sporting Group.

The Flat Coated Retriever Care and Grooming

Sporting dogs need a ton of daily exercise and this requirement is no different with the Flat Coated Retriever. Always seeking the chance to hunt and jump into water, this breed is best suited for a family that enjoys plenty of outdoor action.

The coat of these dogs needs only a weekly brushing, and only minor trimming. This breed is an average shedder.

Health Problems of the Flat Coated Retriever Breed

The average life expectancy of the Flat Coated Retriever is about twelve to fourteen years.

There are no major health concerns for this breed.

Minor health issues include:

• gastric torsion
• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)
• hemangiosarcoma
• glaucoma
• osteosarcoma
• patellar luxation
• lymphosarcoma

Veterinarians recommend having the Flat Coated Retriever tested specifically for possible hip, knee and eye problems.

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Flat-Coated Retriever (Comprehensive Owners Guide)

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• Height (at the shoulders): average about 18 inches (46 cm)
• Weight: 35 – 50 pounds (16 – 22.5 kg)
• Life Expectancy: 10 – 12 years
• AKC Group: Sporting Group – AKC recognized in 1894
• Living Conditions: not recommended for apartments; moderately active indoors; best with a large yard

Personality of the Field Spaniel

With high energy levels and equal amounts of playfulness, the Field Spaniel is one of the most friendly breed of dogs that a family can have and are noted as being extremely friendly towards and other pets.  They are easy to train and can be excellent watchdogs. Always willing to please, and enjoy having a job to do, a Field Spaniel would make any home a peaceful one.

History of the Field Spaniel Dog

The Field Spaniel is one dog breed that actually shares much of its early history with a similar breed called the English Cocker Spaniel.  Initially, the only difference between these two dogs was their size. The Field Spaniel was a bit larger due to its blood connection with Land Spaniels that weighed as much as 25 pounds heavier. These larger Spaniels were made up of the Sussex Spaniel, Cocker Spaniel, and English Water Spaniels.

By the late 1800s, after they were recognized as their own separate breed, heavy breeding practices went into the Field Spaniel which resulted in a longer body, shorter legs, and heavier bones.  Such exaggerated breeding techniques caused this dog to lose its hunting abilities and although Field Spaniels were quite popular going into the early 1900s, they teetered on the brink of extinction soon after.

Fortunately, breeders started to cross the Field Spaniel with English Springer Spaniels in order to re-create the original breed. They were successful. Today’s modern Field Spaniel is not only a wonderful looking dog from the old days, they also regained their hunting abilities.

You can thank the following groups of people who undertook the challenge of re-creating the original Field Spaniel, dating back to the 1950s: Gormac Teal, Ronayne Regal, Elmbury Morwena of Rhiwlas, and Colombina of Teffont.

Although the Field Spaniel was introduced to the United States sometime during the latter part of the 1800s, there were no champion dogs from this breed between the years 1916 and 1966. In fact, there were almost no Field Spaniels to be found in America during this time. However, during the late 1960s, this dog started to become more popular but is still considered one of the rarest breeds in existence today.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1894 as a member of the Sporting Group.

The Field Spaniel Dog Breed Care and Grooming

Although Field Spaniels are fairly active dogs and enjoy running around as much as possible, you can satisfy its energy requirements with a couple of brisk walks during the day. Most happy when sleeping inside with its family, Field Spaniels should also have plenty of time to roam free in a fenced-in yard.

Grooming will take solid brushing at least twice per week and the hair of the ears and foot pads should be trimmed up every few months.

Health Problems of the Field Spaniel

The average life expectancy of the Field Spaniel dog breed is about ten to twelve years.

Major health concerns for this breed are:

• CHD (Canine Hip Dysplasia)

Minor health issues include:

• hypothyroidism
• otitis externa

Veterinarians recommend having the Field Spaniel tested specifically for thyroid problems, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye issues, and heart murmurs.

Image courtesy of ccho via Flickr

Field Spaniel (Comprehensive Owner’s Guide)

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