Pointer

Like every breed, the Pointer is not the right fit for every home. Based on the breed’s typical traits:

• Use reward-based training and keep it interesting.
• Make a reliable recall a priority, as their hunting instinct is strong.
• Try pet gundog classes or scent work to let them use their natural talents.
• Socialise puppies well so they fit into family life.

• Children

  Usually better with older, calmer children.

• Other dogs

  Usually sociable with other dogs.

• Cats and small pets

  Varies with the individual dog.

• Flats and smaller homes

  Usually needs a roomy home.

• Garden

  A garden is helpful.

• Being left alone

  Usually copes only with short periods alone.

• First-time owners

  Some dog experience helps.

Not yet reviewed by a vet. This is general information, not veterinary advice: speak to your vet about your own dog’s health.

• Hip dysplasia

  Looseness of the hip joint caused by poor development, which eventually leads to arthritis. Hip testing under the BVA/KC Hip Dysplasia Scheme is part of the Royal Kennel Club's best-practice testing.

• Gastric dilatation volvulus (GDV)

  Often called bloat, this is where the stomach twists, trapping its contents and gas. It is an emergency that needs urgent veterinary attention, and it is often seen in large, deep-chested breeds.

• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)

  A gradual deterioration of the retina, which can start with night blindness and progress to total blindness.

• Hypothyroidism

  An underactive thyroid gland that does not produce enough thyroid hormone, which can lead to low energy, weight gain and skin problems.

• Other eye conditions

  The breed can be prone to entropion, where the eyelids turn inwards, and cataracts, which make the lens cloudy.

• Wobbler syndrome

  An abnormality of the bones in the neck, which can cause incoordination of the hind legs or paralysis.

Responsible breeders and rescues are happy to talk about health, and any pressure to decide quickly is a reason to walk away. Before taking a Pointer home, it is reasonable to ask about:

• Health testing of the parents. Ask which health tests the parents have had for conditions known in the breed, and to see the results.
• Veterinary and vaccination records. Puppies should have had a first vaccination and a vet check, with records you can take home.
• Microchip information. In England, Scotland and Wales puppies must be microchipped and registered by eight weeks old. Ask who the chip is registered to and how the transfer works.
• Registration paperwork. Registration papers, where they apply, record pedigree. They do not by themselves prove health or how a puppy was raised.

There are two costs: bringing a Pointer home, and looking after one well. Puppy prices depend on the breeder, health testing and demand; the adverts below show what sellers are asking today.

Ongoing costs are the ones new owners most often underestimate: food, insurance (which usually rises with age), routine vet care, vaccinations and parasite treatment, dental care, grooming, training, bedding and equipment, and boarding or a sitter for holidays. Budget for the whole of the dog’s life, typically from 12 years, not just the first year.

If you have decided the Pointer suits your life, take the same care choosing where your dog comes from. Meet the puppy in person, see it with its mother, and look at how the litter is raised.

• Check who you are dealing with: every Mypetzilla advert shows the seller type and what we have checked.
• Ask about health testing, vaccinations and the microchip before you commit.
• Take your time. Do not be rushed by deposits or "last one left" stories.
• Meet in person before paying anything, and keep conversations on Mypetzilla.

Pointers do come up for adoption, through rescue organisations, breed rescues and private rehoming, often because an owner’s circumstances have changed rather than any fault of the dog. An adult dog arrives as a known quantity: its size, coat and character are already on show.

Rescues will usually talk you through the dog’s history, any medical care, and the home it needs, including children, other animals and time alone. Be honest about your circumstances: a good rescue would rather place a dog once, well.