German Shorthaired Pointers aren’t longer bred for only hunting purposes. Many people own these dogs as pets because they’re gorgeous, intelligent, and obedient.
The price of this dog breed can vary.
Typically, German Shorthaired Pointers cost between $600 and $1500. However, when considering buying a German Shorthaired Pointer, you should also consider the lifetime expenses of owning this unique dog.
Furthermore, dogs bred for show or who’ve already got training in hunting cost between $3000 and $4000. You can also adopt a German Shorthaired Pointer for less.
Learn more about the adoption and breeding of German Shorthaired Pointers below to make a well-informed choice.
I will also share the costs involved with the ownership, so let’s jump right in.
Is a German Shorthaired Pointer a Good Family Dog?
German Shorthaired Pointers make excellent family pets because they’re friendly, sharp, and energetic.
Also, they’re hunting dogs. Therefore, if you consider purchasing a gun dog, you should know that these dogs need physical and mental stimulation regularly. Otherwise, your canine might become destructive and aggressive.
However, they also love spending time with their human families.
Therefore, a German Shorthaired Pointer will fit your lifestyle perfectly if you have a very active family.
Let’s learn more about these unique dogs.
Personality
The German Shorthaired Pointers have a friendly personality. They’re active, intelligent dogs who enjoy spending time with their favorite people.
Furthermore, these dogs don’t get nervous and aggressive easily. However, these dogs can become bored and chew up your furniture if you don’t provide enough physical and mental stimulation.
Temperament
These canines have high energy levels, so they require physical exercise daily. They’re also intelligent and obedient, so training your German Shorthaired Pointer isn’t hard.
Moreover, German Shorthaired Pointers get along with young kids and other pets in the household if raised together. This dog breed also loves barking and acts protective over owners.
Maintenance
German Shorthaired Pointers shed during shedding season like other breeds. Still, you can’t notice the small hairs in your home.
You can prevent excessive shedding by brushing your canine regularly with a stiff bristle brush. Moreover, you should check your dog’s feet after running and walking outside, as they should be dried thoroughly. Otherwise, your dog can get sick.
Lastly, these dogs develop health problems, such as joint conditions, eye infections, etc. However, if you provide high-quality dog food and walk your dog regularly, they will stay happy and healthy.
Training
German Shorthaired Pointer puppies learn commands quickly. They’re also obedient dogs, so training your German Shorthaired Pointer will be a walk in the park.
However, every dog’s different, and some dogs can display stubbornness. Therefore, it would help if you stay patient and consistent or hire a professional trainer.
Lastly, these canines were initially bred for hunting, so they have a guarding instinct and need obedience training.
Activity
German Shorthaired Pointers have a lot of energy, so regular exercise can help burn off their energy. If your German Shorthaired Pointer doesn’t get enough exercise, they may become bored and destructive.
Simply put, they’re the perfect pet for active families with fenced yards where the canine can run.
Weight
Male German Shorthaired Pointers weigh between 55 and 70 pounds, whereas female dogs can have between 45 and 60 pounds.
As for height, males get between 23 and 25 inches tall. On the other hand, females can reach between 21 and 23 inches in height.
Do German Shorthaired Pointers Get Along With Other Pets?
German Shorthaired Pointer puppies can get along with other animals, especially if raised in the same home. These dogs aren’t aggressive toward existing pets; they’re laid back, friendly, and playful.
However, never leave your German Shorthaired Pointer alone with your kids or smaller pets. These dogs were initially bred for hunting, so they’re hunting dogs.
Most German Shorthaired Pointers will get along with felines, but some dogs might see cats and other small pets, such as rodents, rabbits, and birds, as prey.
How Much is a German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy?
If you’re considering purchasing a German Shorthaired Pointer, but know nothing about the price and ownership costs, don’t worry.
Here’s a breakdown of the price of these dogs and other expenses of owning a German Shorthaired Pointer.
Can I Get a German Shorthaired Pointer for Free?
Unfortunately, you can’t easily find a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy for free.
However, the US has the largest number of German Shorthaired Pointers worldwide, as suggested by the American Kennel Club, so there’s a good chance you know people who own one.
If they have unexpected puppies, you can get one for free, but don’t forget the follow-up costs for high-quality dog food, toys, treats, vet visits, etc.
Can I Adopt a German Shorthaired Pointer?
Americans love German Shorthaired Pointers, so there’s a good chance you can adopt one. You can call your local animal shelters and adopt a homeless German Shorthaired Pointer.
Adopting will cost less than buying a dog. The best part? There’s a high chance that you will get your dog spayed or neutered and vaccinated, saving even more money.
The adoption costs between $50 and $300. Lastly, adopting saves a dog’s life and frees up space for other homeless dogs.
How Much Does a German Shorthaired Pointer Cost From a Reputable Breeder?
German Shorthaired Pointers cost between $600 and $1500, depending on the breeder. Most experienced breeders can breed canines with fewer health issues.
However, they also charge extra and have long waiting lists. Lastly, most dog breeders will require the buyer to purchase the breeding rights or spay or neuter their dog.
What’s the Cost of Initial Setup and Supplies?
These dogs don’t require many supplies. So, you can start with what you have at home. You should buy food and water bowls.
Some owners buy a metal crate for sleeping. These crates can cost up to $100, but it’s a one-time buy. If you bye a container, you should also get bedding.
The initial setup will cost you less than $200.
What’s the Monthly Cost of Owning a German Shorthaired Pointer?
Owning a German Shorthaired Pointer will cost you between $100 and $200 per month. The monthly cost includes food and health care costs.
Your costs will increase if you buy pet insurance, toys, etc.
Additional Costs of Owning a German Shorthaired Pointer
Let’s break down the overall costs of owning a German Shorthaired Pointer, so you can see if caring for this dog fits your family budget.
Health Care Costs
Every pet owner should take their pet to the vet now and then for checkups. Your puppy will need a rabies booster every three years.
Your vet clinic will keep records of your dog’s health and watch out for common health issues in German Shorthaired Pointers, such as hip dysplasia, eye conditions, etc.
The first vet visits during the first year of your GSP puppy will cost between $60 and $170. Yearly vet visits for your adult dog will cost between $120 and $260.
Food Costs
Most German Shorthaired Pointers weigh about 50 pounds. However, some can get as heavy as 75 pounds. So, you would pay between $30 and $60 per month for food.
You should buy high-quality dog food with turkey, chicken, or salmon as the main ingredient. Avoid dog foods with corn as the first ingredient because these foods can cause weight gain.
Grooming Costs
You can bathe and brush your dog at home for free because these dogs don’t shed too much. They don’t have long hair. So, you can take care of their coat with dog shampoo and a good brush.
However, some owners pay between $5 and $10 monthly for professional grooming.
Pet Insurance
Many people forget about insurance because they assume healthy dogs can’t get sick or hurt. However, having one can save you money if your dog needs ultrasounds and x-rays.
These things can cost hundreds of dollars, so you should invest in pet insurance. You will pay between $15 and $50 for pet insurance monthly.
Conclusion
A German Shorthaired Pointer puppy will make any family happy, especially active ones; this breed is known for high energy levels and require regular mental and physical stimulation.
The best part? These high-energy dogs aren’t expensive. You can even find one at local animal shelters and save money.
Lastly, GSPs have a long lifespan of about 12-14 years and fewer health issues than other dogs. Still, consider the ownership costs before getting a German Shorthaired Pointer.
