Pointer

A Pointer dog in a pointing stance in a natural setting.

Pointer: The Athletic and Graceful Hunting Companion

The Pointer is an athletic and highly skilled sporting breed known for its speed, endurance, and exceptional bird-hunting instincts. Originally developed in England to locate and “point” game birds for hunters, the Pointer combines remarkable athletic ability and intelligence with a friendly and eager-to-please temperament that makes it both an outstanding field dog and a loyal family companion. These energetic and highly trainable dogs thrive with active owners who can provide vigorous daily exercise, mental stimulation, and opportunities for outdoor activity, as Pointers are happiest when they have room to run and a purpose to fulfill. While affectionate and gentle with their families, the breed’s high energy level and strong hunting instincts require consistent training and regular engagement to maintain a balanced temperament. With their sleek athletic build, graceful movement, and enthusiastic personality, the Pointer is an excellent choice for active individuals or families seeking a hardworking and affectionate sporting companion.


⭐ 3 Things You May Not Know About the Pointer

  1. The Pointer is famous for its instinctive “pointing” stance, where it freezes and directs hunters toward hidden game birds.
  2. The breed was developed to cover large areas of ground quickly while hunting, making it one of the fastest and most athletic sporting dogs.
  3. Pointers have influenced the development of many modern pointing breeds used in bird hunting today.

Overview

  • AKC Height: 25-28 inches (males), 23-26 inches (females)

  • AKC Weight: 55-75 pounds (males), 44-65 pounds (females)

  • Colors: Various shades including liver, lemon, black, and orange, often with white markings

  • Life Expectancy: 12-15 years

  • Group: Sporting Group


🐾 Quick Facts About the Pointer

  • Energy Level: Very High — Pointers are athletic sporting dogs that need extensive exercise and outdoor activity.
  • Grooming Needs: Low — Their short smooth coat is easy to maintain with occasional brushing.
  • Good With Kids: Yes — Pointers are generally affectionate, friendly, and gentle with families and children.
  • Trainability: High — Intelligent and eager to work, they respond very well to positive and consistent training.
  • Barking Level: Low to Moderate — Pointers are usually quiet but may bark when excited or alerting.

Jump to Section


History & Origin

The Pointer originated in Europe and was refined primarily in England as a specialized bird-hunting dog capable of locating game birds and instinctively “pointing” hunters toward them. The breed’s exact ancestry remains somewhat uncertain, but it likely descends from a combination of Spanish pointing dogs, foxhounds, greyhounds, and other sporting breeds selectively developed for speed, endurance, and scenting ability.

Early hunters valued the Pointer for its remarkable ability to locate birds and freeze in a rigid stance indicating the location of hidden game. Before firearms became common, pointing dogs helped hunters approach birds for capture using nets. As bird hunting evolved with the use of guns, the Pointer became highly respected for covering large areas of terrain quickly while maintaining strong cooperation with hunters.

English breeders carefully refined the breed during the 18th and 19th centuries, focusing on elegance, athleticism, speed, and efficient field performance. The Pointer developed a lean muscular body, deep chest, and long stride that allowed it to hunt tirelessly across fields, moors, and rough countryside terrain.

Unlike retrievers bred primarily for water work, the Pointer specialized in locating and indicating game with exceptional style and precision. Hunters admired the breed’s graceful movement, intense focus, and ability to work long days in difficult outdoor conditions.

Modern Pointers still retain many characteristics shaped by centuries of sporting work. Their intelligence, athleticism, endurance, and strong bird instincts reflect generations of selective breeding for practical hunting performance and close partnership with people. Beneath the breed’s elegant appearance and smooth coat remains one of the sporting world’s most classic and highly capable bird dogs deeply connected to the hunting traditions of England and Europe.


Breed Traits & Personality

The Pointer, often called the English Pointer, is a medium-to-large sporting breed known for its elegant athletic build, short sleek coat, and remarkable pointing ability. Developed in England for bird hunting, the breed combines speed, endurance, intelligence, and graceful movement with exceptional field performance and natural hunting instincts.

The breed possesses a balanced muscular frame with moderate bone structure, deep chest, long graceful neck, and powerful hindquarters designed for speed, stamina, and efficient movement across open terrain. The Pointer should appear athletic, refined, and naturally coordinated without becoming coarse or fragile.

One of the breed’s most recognizable features is its classic pointing posture, where the body becomes rigid and focused while directing attention toward game birds.

The head is cleanly chiseled with a moderate muzzle, dark expressive eyes, and highly alert intelligent expression. The breed’s face often conveys attentiveness, confidence, and calm determination.

The ears are medium-length, pendant-shaped, and carried close to the head, contributing to the breed’s refined sporting-dog appearance.

The coat is short, smooth, dense, and glossy, lying close to the body and emphasizing the breed’s athletic structure.

Coat colors commonly include liver, lemon, black, or orange combined with white markings or ticking patterns.

The tail is long and tapering, carried with lively motion during activity. Movement should appear smooth, agile, and highly coordinated with excellent endurance and speed.

The Pointer’s athletic structure allows impressive stamina and efficiency during long hours of hunting and outdoor activity.

Although elegant and refined in appearance, the breed remains fundamentally a hardworking sporting dog with powerful instincts and remarkable drive.

Overall, the Pointer projects athleticism, intelligence, grace, and classic sporting-dog character through its sleek structure and focused expression.

For a broader comparison of how this breed’s size compares to others, see our Dog Size & Weight Guide.


Temperament & Personality

The Pointer is known for being affectionate, intelligent, energetic, and highly people-oriented. This breed forms strong emotional bonds with its family and thrives on companionship and active engagement.

With family members, Pointers are typically loving, playful, and emotionally connected. Many individuals strongly enjoy participating in household routines, outdoor adventures, and interactive activities with their people.

The breed is generally socially friendly with both familiar people and strangers when properly socialized.

Pointers are energetic and mentally active dogs that enjoy exploration, movement, and physically engaging outdoor activities.

Because of their sporting heritage, many individuals possess strong environmental awareness and natural bird-finding instincts.

The breed is intelligent and capable of learning quickly, often responding exceptionally well to positive reinforcement training and cooperative activities.

Pointers are emotionally sensitive and generally respond best to calm positive interaction and stable routines. Harsh correction or forceful handling may reduce confidence or create anxiety.

Many individuals coexist very well with children, other dogs, and household pets when properly socialized and supervised.

Because of their highly social and active temperament, the breed generally does not tolerate prolonged boredom or isolation well.

Pointers often maintain playful enthusiastic personalities throughout adulthood while still developing into affectionate dependable companions indoors once exercise needs are properly satisfied.

In the right home, the Pointer becomes a loyal, intelligent, emotionally connected companion with exceptional trainability and lively sporting-dog personality.

For a broader overview of personality differences between breed groups, visit our Dog Breed Temperament Guide.


Exercise & Training Needs

The Pointer is a highly active and intelligent sporting breed that requires substantial daily exercise and mental stimulation to remain physically healthy and behaviorally balanced.

Daily activity should include long walks, running, hiking, obedience exercises, retrieving games, scent work, and mentally engaging activities that challenge both body and mind.

Because of the breed’s intelligence and strong hunting instincts, mental stimulation is especially important. Puzzle toys, advanced obedience exercises, field-style games, and varied routines help prevent boredom and frustration-related behaviors.

Training is generally highly rewarding because Pointers are intelligent eager learners that enjoy cooperative work with people.

Positive reinforcement methods using praise, treats, encouragement, and consistency usually produce excellent long-term results. The breed responds best to engaging relationship-based training rather than harsh correction.

Early socialization is extremely important for encouraging confidence around unfamiliar people, animals, sounds, and environments.

Reliable recall training and impulse control are especially important because many Pointers possess strong prey drive and environmental curiosity.

The breed often excels in canine sports and activities including field trials, obedience, agility, rally, scent work, dock diving, and advanced sporting competitions.

Pointers generally thrive best in active homes where companionship, structured engagement, and mentally stimulating activities are consistently provided.

Because of their high energy level and athletic drive, insufficient activity may contribute to excessive barking, restlessness, or destructive behaviors.

Although energetic outdoors, many well-exercised individuals settle calmly indoors once physical and emotional needs have been properly satisfied.

For owners seeking an intelligent, athletic sporting breed with strong trainability and graceful appearance, the Pointer can become an exceptionally rewarding companion.

Learn more on our Dog Training Page.


Grooming Requirements

The Pointer has very low-maintenance grooming requirements due to its short smooth coat.

The glossy coat generally requires weekly brushing using a grooming mitt or soft bristle brush to remove loose hair and maintain healthy skin and coat condition.

The breed sheds lightly to moderately throughout the year, with somewhat heavier seasonal shedding periods during coat transitions.

Bathing is generally needed only periodically because the short coat naturally remains relatively clean and low odor in most individuals.

Routine grooming should also include nail trimming, dental care, ear cleaning, and inspection of the skin for irritation or injury.

Because of the breed’s active outdoor lifestyle, owners should regularly inspect paw pads, nails, joints, and muscle condition following strenuous exercise or field activity.

The short dense coat provides moderate weather protection while still allowing flexibility and athletic movement.

Regular dental hygiene is important for maintaining long-term overall health and comfort.

The sleek glossy coat benefits greatly from proper nutrition, preventive care, and regular maintenance to preserve healthy shine and skin condition.

Regular grooming sessions also provide valuable opportunities to monitor muscle tone, skin health, and overall physical condition throughout life.

With proper grooming, exercise, preventive care, and regular maintenance, the Pointer maintains its healthy coat, athletic condition, and energetic sporting-dog vitality throughout its life.

Learn more on our Dog Grooming Page.


Health Overview & Testing

The Pointer is an intelligent, athletic, and highly energetic sporting breed known for its graceful build, endurance, and natural pointing instinct in the field. Originally developed as a hunting dog for locating game birds, the Pointer is generally considered a hardy and versatile breed, but like many active sporting dogs, it can still be prone to several inherited and structural health concerns. Understanding common Pointer health problems and recommended breeder health testing can help puppy buyers make more informed decisions when selecting a healthy puppy. Because this breed combines speed, stamina, lean athletic structure, and strong hunting instincts, maintaining healthy joints, cardiac wellness, mobility, eye health, and overall body condition is especially important throughout the dog’s life.

Health issues sometimes seen in Pointers may include hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and age-related arthritis. Some individuals may also develop allergies, obesity-related orthopedic stress, hereditary eye concerns, or cruciate ligament injuries later in life. Because the breed is naturally active and highly athletic, maintaining proper conditioning and regular mental stimulation is especially important for supporting long-term orthopedic wellness and emotional balance. While not every Pointer will develop these conditions, understanding the breed’s health tendencies allows owners to make better long-term decisions regarding breeding, exercise, training, nutrition, and preventive veterinary care.


Health Testing & Responsible Breeding

Responsible Pointer breeders should perform appropriate health screenings before breeding in order to reduce the likelihood of inherited conditions being passed to future generations. Many puppy buyers are encouraged to ask about health testing, but they are often unsure which evaluations are most important for this breed. In the Pointer, careful attention to orthopedic, eye, thyroid, neurological, and overall structural health is especially valuable.

Buyers should ask whether the sire and dam have completed OFA or PennHIP hip evaluations, ophthalmologist-performed eye examinations, thyroid testing, and additional neurological or cardiac screening when appropriate. Responsible breeders may also discuss orthopedic longevity, temperament stability, hunting ability, field performance, and overall lifespan within their bloodlines. Some breeders may additionally monitor for hereditary immune-related concerns depending on pedigree history.

Unlike some breeds selected primarily for appearance alone, responsible Pointer breeding programs often place strong emphasis on athletic soundness, stable temperament, and working ability because the breed was developed for physically demanding bird-hunting work requiring endurance, speed, and precision. Ethical breeders understand that preserving the Pointer involves much more than maintaining appearance or movement style — it also includes protecting healthy function, emotional stability, sensory wellness, and long-term vitality.

Before Pointer puppies are placed into new homes, they should receive a complete veterinary wellness examination that evaluates the heart, eyes, joints, neurological responses, bite alignment, parasite status, overall structure, and general physical development. Because athletic sporting breeds place stress on developing bones and joints during growth, proper nutrition and carefully managed exercise during puppyhood are especially important. Puppies should also leave with age-appropriate vaccinations, deworming records, feeding guidance, and recommendations for safe socialization, grooming, and physical conditioning during development.

A responsible Pointer breeder should willingly provide documentation of completed health clearances and openly discuss inherited health concerns affecting the breed. Puppy buyers should be cautious of breeders who avoid health discussions, refuse to provide testing information, or claim their dogs are completely free of health problems. Ethical breeding focuses on reducing inherited risk through careful selection, health screening, pedigree knowledge, and lifelong breeder support rather than making unrealistic promises.


Preventive Care & Long-Term Wellness

Maintaining healthy body condition and regular exercise is especially important for the Pointer because this breed is naturally energetic, athletic, and mentally active. Without sufficient physical activity and mental stimulation, some individuals may become anxious, destructive, vocal, or emotionally frustrated. Regular exercise helps support cardiovascular fitness, muscle tone, coordination, joint stability, and emotional well-being throughout life.

The Pointer is also an intelligent and highly trainable breed that benefits from regular mental stimulation and structured interaction. Walks, hiking, retrieving games, scent work, obedience training, puzzle toys, field activities, and interactive play all contribute to emotional balance and long-term wellness.

The breed’s short coat requires relatively simple grooming maintenance, including regular brushing and routine skin monitoring to maintain healthy coat condition. Grooming sessions also provide an excellent opportunity to monitor for parasites, lumps, skin irritation, coat-quality changes, or developing health concerns.

Because Pointers are naturally energetic and driven hunting dogs, early training and socialization are especially important for developing emotional stability, confidence, and reliable behavior.

Routine veterinary examinations throughout adulthood and senior years remain important for monitoring mobility, orthopedic wellness, thyroid function, eye condition, neurological health, and overall quality of life. Early detection of developing health concerns often allows for more successful long-term management and improved outcomes.


Lifespan & Senior Pointer Care

The Pointer often lives approximately 12 to 15 years when responsibly bred and properly cared for. Senior Pointers may gradually develop arthritis, reduced stamina, hearing decline, vision changes, muscle loss, or decreased mobility as they age. Some older dogs may also become more prone to orthopedic stiffness or endocrine-related concerns during the senior years.

As Pointers enter their senior years, many owners focus on maintaining moderate low-impact exercise, healthy weight management, supportive bedding, joint support, continued mental stimulation, and routine wellness monitoring. Because the breed often remains mentally active and emotionally connected throughout life, continued companionship and purposeful activity remain especially important even during old age.

With attentive care, preventive veterinary support, responsible breeding, and a healthy lifestyle, many Pointers continue to thrive as affectionate, energetic, and highly devoted companions throughout their lives.


Is This Breed Right for You?

The Pointer is an intelligent, energetic, and highly versatile sporting breed known for its athletic ability, pointing instinct, and strong bond with its family. Originally developed for bird hunting and field work, the Pointer thrives when given exercise, companionship, structure, and opportunities to stay mentally and physically engaged.

While affectionate and adaptable, the Pointer is not the ideal fit for every household. Here’s a quick overview to help you decide:

✔ Ideal for:

  • Active owners who enjoy hiking, running, and outdoor activities
  • Families seeking an intelligent and interactive companion
  • People able to provide regular exercise and mental stimulation
  • Owners interested in field work, scent work, or canine sports
  • Homes willing to provide companionship and structure

❌ Not Ideal for:

  • People unable to provide regular exercise and engagement
  • Homes where the dog will frequently be isolated or inactive
  • Owners seeking a low-energy or low-drive companion
  • People unprepared for strong hunting instincts and activity needs
  • Homes unwilling to provide training and supervision

Finding a Responsible Breeder or Rescue

If you’re interested in bringing a dog of this breed into your home, consider adopting from a rescue organization or finding a reputable breeder.

Find a Reliable Rescue:

Read our page about how to adopt from a reliable dog rescue.

Find reliable rescues through our Dog Rescue Directory.

Find a Responsible Breeder:

Read our information page about buying a healthy puppy from a responsible breeder.

Find responsible breeders through our Dog Breeders Directory.


Puppy Considerations

Pointer puppies are playful, curious, and highly energetic from an early age. Early socialization and positive reinforcement training are extremely important to help puppies develop confidence, emotional stability, and appropriate behavior.

Because these puppies mature into athletic and highly driven hunting dogs, early structure and healthy outlets for their energy are especially important. Their curiosity, intelligence, and pointing instincts often become obvious very early in development.

Puppies benefit from:

  • Early socialization with people, dogs, sounds, and environments
  • Positive reinforcement training and structured routines
  • Daily exercise and mentally stimulating activities
  • Confidence-building exercises and interactive play
  • Consistent boundaries and positive behavioral guidance

Because Pointer puppies are highly intelligent and emotionally responsive, calm leadership and consistent training are especially important during development.


Living With a Pointer

Living with a Pointer is often rewarding for owners who appreciate energetic, intelligent, and highly interactive companion dogs. These dogs generally form strong bonds with their families and often enjoy participating in active household routines and outdoor adventures.

The Pointer requires regular physical exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and emotionally balanced. Many enjoy hiking, scent games, field activities, obedience work, puzzle toys, and interactive play with their families.

This breed generally does best in homes where it receives companionship, structure, training, and opportunities to stay mentally occupied. Without enough engagement or exercise, boredom may lead to destructive behavior, excessive barking, anxiety, or emotional frustration.

Although affectionate and social with family members, Pointers may naturally become intensely focused when outdoors or following scents and movement. Early socialization and responsible ownership are important for helping the breed develop into a confident and manageable adult.

Feeding a balanced, high-quality diet and maintaining a healthy weight are important for supporting endurance, mobility, muscle condition, orthopedic wellness, and overall quality of life. Routine veterinary care, exercise, training, grooming, and companionship all contribute to helping the breed thrive.


Final Thoughts…

The Pointer is an affectionate, intelligent, and deeply loyal sporting breed that thrives with owners who appreciate active companionship and outdoor adventure. Their athleticism, enthusiasm, and devotion make them remarkable companions in the right homes.

With proper exercise, preventive care, socialization, training, grooming, and companionship, the Pointer can become a deeply rewarding and highly devoted lifelong companion.

Are you considering adding a Pointer to your family?


🐶 Pointer FAQs


How long do Pointers live?

Pointers typically have a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. With proper nutrition, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care, many live long, healthy lives.

This breed is generally healthy but may be prone to certain inherited conditions such as hip dysplasia or eye issues. Regular health screenings help support long-term wellbeing.

What is the Pointer temperament like?

Pointers are known for being friendly, energetic, and even-tempered. They are enthusiastic sporting dogs with a strong desire to work and please.

They tend to be affectionate with their families and sociable with people. Early socialization helps reinforce confident and well-mannered behavior.

Are Pointers good family dogs?

Pointers can make excellent family dogs in active households. They enjoy companionship and thrive when included in family activities.

They generally do well with children who understand respectful interaction. Adequate exercise and structure help support positive family relationships.

Do Pointers shed a lot?

Pointers are low to moderate shedders. Their short, smooth coat sheds lightly throughout the year.

Occasional brushing helps remove loose hair and keeps the coat healthy. Grooming needs are minimal compared to many breeds.

Are Pointers easy to train?

Pointers are intelligent and eager to learn, making them generally responsive to training. They do best with consistent and positive methods.

Positive reinforcement and regular mental stimulation help maintain focus. Training works best when paired with sufficient physical exercise.


Similar Breeds You Might Like

If you’re interested in the Pointer, you may also enjoy learning about these similar sporting breeds:

  • German Shorthaired Pointer – A versatile hunting breed known for energy and intelligence.
  • English Setter – A graceful sporting dog valued for friendliness and stamina.
  • Vizsla – An affectionate, athletic breed with strong hunting instincts.

🐾 Lisa’s Picks for Pointers

As someone who has worked with dogs for over 50 years—including more than 20 years helping with housebreaking and everyday care—I’m often asked for product recommendations. I’ve found that a few simple items can make a big difference in a dog’s comfort and daily routine.

If you have a Pointer or are planning to bring one into your home, these products and tips can help support your journey together.

🛏️ 1. Dog Beds

👉 My Tip:  Waterproof Bed Protection (My Personal Favorite Trick)

One thing I personally do is use twin-size waterproof mattress covers over larger dog beds. They’re easy to wash, protect the bed beneath, and save money long-term—especially helpful for puppies, seniors, or heavy shedders. You can find different colors and patterns that fit your decor.

For tiny dog beds, you can use waterproof pillow covers that fit over the beds to protect them and save money long-term.

I use the same idea around the house, too. Washable, waterproof couch covers are a simple way to protect furniture from dirt, shedding, and accidents—especially helpful with puppies, seniors, or dogs that love the couch.

Orthopedic Foam Dog Beds:
A high-quality orthopedic bed is one of the best investments you can make for your dog. I recommend these for every breed, once they are out of the chewing stage, especially as they age. They provide joint support, improve comfort, and help dogs truly rest.

Tough Dog Beds for Dogs That Chew:
If your dog tends to chew or destroy their bedding, a standard plush bed may not last long. In these cases, I recommend tough, chew-resistant dog beds made with reinforced materials.
These are designed to hold up better against digging, scratching, and chewing, and can save you from constantly replacing beds. While no bed is completely indestructible, choosing a more durable option can make a big difference.

Puppies need Simple Washable Bedding:
For young puppies that are still learning house training, I often suggest starting with simple, washable blankets instead of an expensive dog bed.
Thick towels, fleece throws, or washable pads work very well during this stage. They’re easy to clean, quick to replace, and help protect your main dog beds until your puppy is more reliable. Once house training is more consistent, you can transition to a more permanent, supportive bed.

🐾 Lisa’s Picks for Akitas

As someone who has worked with dogs for over 50 years—including more than 20 years helping with housebreaking and everyday care—I’m often asked for product recommendations. I’ve found that a few simple items can make a big difference in a dog’s comfort and daily routine.

If you have an Akita or are planning to bring one into your home, these products and tips can help support your journey together.

🛏️ 1. Dog Beds

👉 My Tip:  Waterproof Bed Protection (My Personal Favorite Trick)

One thing I personally do is use twin-size waterproof mattress covers over larger dog beds. They’re easy to wash, protect the bed beneath, and save money long-term—especially helpful for puppies, seniors, or heavy shedders. You can find different colors and patterns that fit your decor.

For tiny dog beds, you can use waterproof pillow covers that fit over the beds to protect them and save money long-term.

I use the same idea around the house, too. Washable, waterproof couch covers are a simple way to protect furniture from dirt, shedding, and accidents—especially helpful with puppies, seniors, or dogs that love the couch.

Orthopedic Foam Dog Beds:
A high-quality orthopedic bed is one of the best investments you can make for your dog. I recommend these for every breed, once they are out of the chewing stage, especially as they age. They provide joint support, improve comfort, and help dogs truly rest.

Tough Dog Beds for Dogs That Chew:
If your dog tends to chew or destroy their bedding, a standard plush bed may not last long. In these cases, I recommend tough, chew-resistant dog beds made with reinforced materials.
These are designed to hold up better against digging, scratching, and chewing, and can save you from constantly replacing beds. While no bed is completely indestructible, choosing a more durable option can make a big difference.

Puppies need Simple Washable Bedding:
For young puppies that are still learning house training, I often suggest starting with simple, washable blankets instead of an expensive dog bed.
Thick towels, fleece throws, or washable pads work very well during this stage. They’re easy to clean, quick to replace, and help protect your main dog beds until your puppy is more reliable. Once house training is more consistent, you can transition to a more permanent, supportive bed.

✂️ 2. Proper Grooming Tools for the Pointer Coat

Pointers have a short, smooth coat that is easy to maintain, but regular grooming helps keep the coat and skin healthy.

A rubber grooming brush or soft brush works well to remove loose hair and dirt while maintaining the coat’s natural shine. A grooming mitt can also help distribute natural oils and keep the coat sleek and healthy. A metal comb may be used lightly for detail work if needed.

Pointers are moderate shedders, and regular brushing helps control loose hair while keeping the coat in excellent condition. Because they are active sporting dogs, grooming sessions also provide a good opportunity to check the ears, feet, nails, and skin after outdoor activity.

Regular brushing:

  • Helps remove loose hair and dirt
  • Keeps the coat clean and glossy
  • Maintains healthy skin

🦴 3. Treats (Great for All Dogs)

  • Jerky Treats for Dogs: Almost all dogs love soft, easy-to-break NATURAL jerky treats. They’re perfect for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding. Soft jerky treats provide protein and are easy to chew.

  • Tiny Treats for Small Dogs
    For small dogs, I recommend using very tiny, NATURAL training treats that are soft and easy to chew. This lets you reward often without overfeeding.
  • Stronger Chew Treats for Larger Dogs
    Dogs that enjoy a more robust chewing experience will benefit from stronger chew treats. Some larger dogs may still go through them quickly, while others will take more time—so it often depends on the individual dog.

👉 My Tip: Check Ingredient Labels

I always recommend checking the ingredient label when choosing treats at the store. Dogs don’t need added sugar or artificial ingredients, and some treats can upset their stomach or cause diarrhea. Look for all-natural ingredient labels, and single ingredient or few ingredient labels are preferred.

It’s important to note that even among the same breed, some dogs enjoy chewing more than others, and many have preferences for certain types of chews. If you notice bleeding gums during chewing, it’s a good idea to have your dog examined by a veterinarian to rule out any dental issues.

🧠 4. Enrichment Toys for Mental Stimulation

Pointers are active, so giving them something to do is important.

An enrichment toy can help:

  • Prevent boredom
  • Reduce unwanted behaviors
  • Keep their mind engaged

When choosing an enrichment toy, think about your dog’s personality and needs. Some dogs love puzzle toys and mental challenges, while others are happier with something they can chew or carry around.

🐕 5. Safe, Comfortable Harness, Collar & Leash

From my experience, choosing the right walking gear can make a big difference in both safety and control. Some harnesses and collars are designed to help prevent dogs from slipping out, which is especially important for strong or easily startled dogs, and those are the types I personally recommend for safety.

Harness: A quality, comfortable properly fitted harness can make walks more comfortable and easier to manage—especially for dogs that tend to pull or get excited outdoors. If you have a dog that tries to wiggle out of their harness, search for an “escape proof” harness that has an extra strap towards the back.

Collar: I use and prefer safety martingale collars, as they can help prevent dogs from backing out of their collar while still being more gentle than traditional collars when used correctly.

Leash: Choose a lightweight leash for small dogs and a sturdier, heavier leash for larger dogs to ensure good control. Nylon leashes are strong and long-lasting. Some leashes also include a comfortable padded handle.

👉 My Tip: Avoid Retractable Leashes

I don’t recommend retractable leashes, as they can break and tangle easily and create safety issues and tripping hazards.

💡 Lisa’s Tip:

You don’t need a lot of products to care for a dog well… just the right ones. Focus on comfort, consistency, and routine, and you’ll make life easier for both you and your dog.


🔎 Affiliate Note

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you choose to purchase, Dog-Breeds.net may earn a small commission that will help us to continue our message of dog owner education—at no extra cost to you.

🦴 3. Treats (Great for All Dogs)

  • Jerky Treats for Dogs: Almost all dogs love soft, easy-to-break NATURAL jerky treats. They’re perfect for rewarding good behavior without overfeeding. Soft jerky treats provide protein and are easy to chew.

  • Tiny Treats for Small Dogs
    For small dogs, I recommend using very tiny, NATURAL training treats that are soft and easy to chew. This lets you reward often without overfeeding.
  • Stronger Chew Treats for Larger Dogs
    Dogs that enjoy a more robust chewing experience will benefit from stronger chew treats. Some larger dogs may still go through them quickly, while others will take more time—so it often depends on the individual dog.

👉 My Tip: Check Ingredient Labels

I always recommend checking the ingredient label when choosing treats at the store. Dogs don’t need added sugar or artificial ingredients, and some treats can upset their stomach or cause diarrhea. Look for all-natural ingredient labels, and single ingredient or few ingredient labels are preferred.

It’s important to note that even among the same breed, some dogs enjoy chewing more than others, and many have preferences for certain types of chews. If you notice bleeding gums during chewing, it’s a good idea to have your dog examined by a veterinarian to rule out any dental issues.

🧠 4. Enrichment Toys for Mental Stimulation

Pointers are active, so giving them something to do is important.

An enrichment toy can help:

  • Prevent boredom
  • Reduce unwanted behaviors
  • Keep their mind engaged

When choosing an enrichment toy, think about your dog’s personality and needs. Some dogs love puzzle toys and mental challenges, while others are happier with something they can chew or carry around.

🐕 5. Safe, Comfortable Harness, Collar & Leash

From my experience, choosing the right walking gear can make a big difference in both safety and control. Some harnesses and collars are designed to help prevent dogs from slipping out, which is especially important for strong or easily startled dogs, and those are the types I personally recommend for safety.

Harness: A quality, comfortable properly fitted harness can make walks more comfortable and easier to manage—especially for dogs that tend to pull or get excited outdoors. If you have a dog that tries to wiggle out of their harness, search for an “escape proof” harness that has an extra strap towards the back.

Collar: I use and prefer safety martingale collars, as they can help prevent dogs from backing out of their collar while still being more gentle than traditional collars when used correctly.

Leash: Choose a lightweight leash for small dogs and a sturdier, heavier leash for larger dogs to ensure good control. Nylon leashes are strong and long-lasting. Some leashes also include a comfortable padded handle.

👉 My Tip: Avoid Retractable Leashes

I don’t recommend retractable leashes, as they can break and tangle easily and create safety issues and tripping hazards.

💡 Lisa’s Tip:

You don’t need a lot of products to care for a dog well… just the right ones. Focus on comfort, consistency, and routine, and you’ll make life easier for both you and your dog.


🔎 Affiliate Note

Some links on this page may be affiliate links. If you choose to purchase, Dog-Breeds.net may earn a small commission that will help us to continue our message of dog owner education—at no extra cost to you.


Learn more about responsible dog ownership, dog health and daily care:

 

Written by Lisa Puskas — Author and founder of Dog-Breeds.net with 50+ years of hands-on experience raising, showing, and training dogs. She is dedicated to preserving dog breeds, educating responsible ownership, and supporting rescue organizations by helping improve long-term adoption success.