Some remarkable characteristics of the Pointer are the breed’s exceptionally high energy level, directness of purpose and zest for life. However, there are also the more subtle and telling things that make the Pointer the unique breed that it is. Living with the breed reveals both the Pointer’s innate intelligence and uncanny ability to work things out.

      The average Pointer doesn’t “need” people: he accepts them. If it were possible to ask your Pointer if he required some assistance, the answer might well be, “I can manage that by myself very well, thank you.” A Pointer might think this is so; however, a Pointer must have direction and discipline. You must never forget that this is a dog carefully bred through history for speed, stamina and intelligence—admirable but lethal qualities if not properly channeled.

      The Pointer’s striking appearance has, in many cases, been the reason for selecting the breed as a household pet. Unfortunately, too often the needs of the breed are ignored. The owner of a Pointer must respond to this highly intelligent breed’s athleticism. If he cannot guarantee his dog at least one hour of daily exercise, then there must be someone in the household who can. Then and only then can the Pointer become the ideal family dog. Otherwise, the potential owner should consider a different, less active breed.

      If such care and training can be provided, it is still important not to act hastily. For the Pointer who is destined to be an all-around family and house dog, it is better to choose from a breeder who has selected for characteristics that include an eye to the show ring and companionship rather than from a breeder who is concentrating exclusively on hunting. Hunting dogs may be far too active for the family who doesn’t require a sporting companion, though it is necessary to screen show breeders carefully as well.

      People are attracted to the Pointer for many reasons: his beauty and deportment are legendary. Other owners wax lyrical about the intelligence and ability of Pointers in the field and even in day-to-day life. Besides these attributes, there is a wide range of beautiful colors and markings from which to choose.

      However, all of these characteristics do not constitute reason enough for anyone to purchase a Pointer without the prospective owner’s conducting a little self-evaluation as well.

      This is not a breed that can be left home alone all day long and then be taken out for a ten-minute walk in the evening. Many generations of selective breeding make the Pointer a dog that must run. The breed, no matter from what lines it may come, show or field, has the innate desire to experience the great outdoors and perform its duties as a hunter of game. A Pointer can be a great companion and close friend for his entire life, but only if the owner is ready to invest the time, patience and exercise outdoors required to bring the breed to its full potential.

      Pointer pups are very cute. Their floppy ears, elastic physiques and waggy-tail personalities make them irresistible. Indeed, Pointer puppies are the subject of calendars and greeting cards printed around the world each year. It is important to realize, however, that a Pointer puppy will spend only a very small part of his day sitting and looking cute. The far greater part of the day will be spent investigating, digging, chewing, eating and needing to go outdoors, only to immediately insist that he be let back in. Any prospective owner should also remember that puppies experience just as many of the aches and pains and sniffles as any human child on the way to maturity.

      It takes time and planning to fulfill the day-to-day needs of a puppy or grown dog. This says nothing of the time required for the many lessons a Pointer must be taught by his master before he understands what he may and may not do.

      Some breeds live simply to please their masters in that they always seem ready, willing and able to respond to commands. The Pointer, however, has to know that you are serious about what you ask him to do, and he may have to think about it as well. What is vital to remember is that your Pointer puppy, or even adult, will depend wholly on you for everything he needs and every lesson he must learn. If you are not ready to accept this responsibility, you are not ready to own a Pointer. It will only result in household damage and drudgery on your part, and what should be a joyful relationship will result in a frustrating situation for both you and your dog.

      The Pointer is a very active dog that requires plenty of outdoor exercise; an hour each day is the absolute minimum.

      Failure to understand the amount of time and consideration a well-cared-for dog requires is one of the primary reasons for the number of unwanted canines that lose their lives in animal shelters. Given proper consideration beforehand, the purchase of a dog can bring many years of companionship and comfort as well as the unconditional love and devotion that no other animal can match.

       MENTAL AND PHYSICAL

      Everything in the Pointer’s history contributed to the mental and physical characteristics that have produced both an industrious, efficient hunting dog and a fine household companion. Generations of selection on that basis give us dogs that embody what makes a Pointer a Pointer.

      Before any family brings a dog into their home, they should give very serious consideration to three extremely important questions:

      1. Does the person who will ultimately be responsible for the dog’s day-to-day care really want a dog?

      The children in the family may vociferously claim that they desperately want a dog; however, will they be doing more than just playing with the dog once he arrives? Pet care can be an excellent way to teach children responsibility, but it should not be forgotten that, in their enthusiasm to have a puppy, children are likely to promise almost anything. It is what will happen after the novelty of owning a new dog has worn off that must be considered.

      In many active families the ultimate responsibility for the family dog often falls on one person. This appears to be the case even in the homes where both parents work outside the home. This person may not relish any more duties than he or she already has.

      2. Does the lifestyle and schedule of the household lend itself to the demands of proper dog care?

      There must always be someone available to see to a dog’s basic needs: feeding, exercise, training

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