Kurzhaar (German Shorthaired Pointer)

The German Shorthaired Pointer, also known as the Kurzhaar, is a breed that strikes the ideal mix between charm and athleticism. This dog is more than just a lovely face thanks to its muscular, sleek body and eye-catching coat patterns. They are well-known for having boundless energy and being adaptable, which makes them great friends for both outdoor enthusiasts and active families.

The Kurzhaar was developed originally for hunting in Germany, and it possesses a keen sense of tracking and retrieval. They perform well in a variety of dog sports, from agility to obedience, thanks to their excellent sense of smell and intelligence. These dogs, however, are playful and loving creatures that thrive on company and human interaction; they’re not just workaholics.

If you’re thinking about bringing a Kurzhaar into your home, be ready for an active and fascinating companion. For them to remain happy and healthy, they need regular exercise and mental stimulation. They can grow up to be devoted and caring members of your family with the correct upbringing and training. Let’s examine more closely at what makes this breed unique and what you need to know before bringing one into your house.

Feature	Description
Breed	German Shorthaired Pointer
Size	Medium to large
Coat	Short, dense, and water-resistant
Color	Varies; often liver and white
Temperament	Intelligent and energetic
Exercise Needs	High; loves running and playing
Trainability	Highly trainable and eager to please
Good With Kids	Yes, very friendly
Life Expectancy	10-14 years

Brief information about the Kurzhaar breed

The German Kurzhaar, or hunting dog, is a graceful, well-built animal. A dog that is purebred is good for any kind of hunting. However, you must consider the uniqueness of its physiology. If not, you will be dissatisfied with your four-legged helper.

Country🇩🇪

German breeders developed the Kurzhaar breed. Germany is its home country.

Group

The Kurzhaar’s abilities reveal the breed to which it belongs. This hunter works everywhere. The dog belongs to the FCI’s seventh group. This serves as an example of a continental pointer.

Wool

The Kurzhaar breed of dogs has short hair. However, their fur is hard and thick. It shields the dog from potential injuries sustained while hunting and fits like a shell.

Colors

The Kurzhaar has an extremely distinctive color. It acts as a defining characteristic of the breed. Let us enumerate the primary hues of the Kurzhaar:

• black Kurzhaar;
• brown Kurzhaar;
• chocolate-piebald Kurzhaar.

Colors in black and white are more prevalent. However, you must realize that the dog is always spotted. The spots’ locations might vary greatly. This implies that the animal is never a single color. It is imperative that markings be present. Examine the contrasting areas more closely if you happen to spot a black or white Kurzhaar, for instance. Should there be none, do not purchase a puppy.

There should be special consideration for brown Kurzhaars. They could appear monochrome. However, in this instance, the head ought to have some spots. They are usually about the same size as coffee beans, but that is irrelevant. The color complies with the requirements. One characteristic that sets the breed apart are the speckles.

Sizes

The Kurzhaar’s sizes enable it to be categorized as a large breed. At the withers, the height is between 62 and 64 cm. The upper limit is 66 cm.

Weight

With such a notable height, how much does an adult Kurzhaar weigh? Body weight: 32 kg is the upper limit. The animal should weigh between 27 and 30 kg on average. For Kurzhaars who are female, the values decrease. The dog ought to be slim and lean. Overweight is not acceptable.

Temperament

The Kurzhaar is an extremely active and spirited dog breed. Her actions might appear insufficient. She has the ability to act haughtily. Requires a skilled breeder who can channel her boundless energy.

The Kurzhaar dog breed adapts well to the confines of a prison. However, you will need to consider the traits of the breed. The pet’s excessive activity and short hair are the main causes of the problems. A constant low temperature is intolerable for dogs.

Fertility

Let’s keep an eye on how many puppies the Kurzhaar produces. According to most breeders’ accounts of their experiences, a bitch gives birth to eight to twelve babies. Puppies in the largest litter ever recorded numbered over 15. Puppies have light fur at birth. It will become a deeper shade as it ages. When they are six months old, puppies can be adopted into a new home. It is not advised to take very young children.

Life expectancy

The duration of a Kurzhaar’s stay at home is determined by the kind of lifestyle the dogs lead. They have a lot of energy and curiosity. They are prone to mishaps and injuries. However, a Kurzhaar’s average lifespan is 10–12 years if they receive the right care. Take care to prevent the dog from becoming overly cold.

Use

The Kurzhaar dog is a popular breed for hunting everywhere. demonstrates success in hunting woodcocks, quails, and partridges while working with feathered game. It can be used for blood trail hunting with the right training.

It needs somewhere to release its energy. It’s not a bad idea for those seeking a companion dog to have an active lifestyle as well.

Cost

Let’s see how much a Russian Kurzhaar dog costs. This breed has a well-established history of value. It is at the peak of its hunting abilities. Puppies with a pedigree can cost up to 100,000 rubles. A dog in the pet class can be purchased for not too much money. Puppies range in price from $15,000 to $20,000.

It will cost you between 30,000 and 40,000 rubles to breed one person. Everything in this situation is based on how the animals look. A Kurzhaar puppy can also be purchased without proper documentation. However, you should be aware that using such a specimen might not yield results. Nobody is going to promise that one of the non-purebred ancestors’ genes won’t surface. Such puppies are available for purchase on Avito for either no money at all or a nominal fee.

Kurzhaar: photo

Around the world, Kurzhaar hunting dogs are highly renowned. This breed’s sense of smell is very good. It is unmatched in the hunting of game birds. Still, it will serve more people than just hunters.

A picture of the Kurzhaar attests to the fact that he is a devoted friend and wonderful companion. A classy, attractive man will be your devoted friend and participant in all family get-togethers. The most important thing is to consider the traits of the breed and follow advice from dog handlers.

History of the Kurzhaar breed

The Kurzhaar breed of hunting dogs rose to fame in antiquity. The precise genealogy of the contemporary German Kurzhaar is unknown. The first people were probably brought from Asia and arrived in the Mediterranean. Their short hair is explained, in part, by this fact.

During the early days of firearms, Kurzhaar hunting became popular among the local nobility. At that point, dogs started to be classified into smaller groups based on the types of hunting they were effective at.

The outstanding qualities of the German Kurzhaar pointer set it apart for successful hunting of birds of all sizes. Scientists are certain that they have inherited the genes of the Spanish Pointer and the Bracco Italiano, who are thought to be their ancestors. The previous delegates left behind their color. Coffee-colored dogs were common at that time.

Additionally, there are versions that include breeds that were used in the selection process:

• English Pointer;
• Weimaraner;
• Hungarian Vizsla.

The Dalmatian gene is another factor that explains the spotted color. Furthermore, we can assert that the Dalmatians are related thanks to the Kurzhaar’s appearance.

It should be noted that breeders did not believe that worrying about a dog’s appearance was necessary. The most important thing was that she had an excellent sense of smell. And Kurzhaars are the most advanced in its development. These were extremely expensive specimens, equal in value to an Arabian horse.

When researching the history of the German Kurzhaar, it is important to realize that the earliest examples can be found in descriptions under different names. Their nickname was "smooth-haired pointers." The 19th century was the only time the breed was given its current name. It was given to new individuals by breeders so they could identify their Drahthaars.

Representatives of the breed started to receive special treatment as early as the 1870s. They were listed on the German Kennel Club’s (GKC) roster.

The nobles developed a fondness for the dogs. Albrecht Solms-Braunfeld in particular had a deep affection for these creatures and supported breeders who worked to advance the breed.

At this Hamburg prince’s request, the first official documentation about the breed, including a detailed description, was prepared. Then it was evident: the dog had cemented itself as a member of the dog community. It evolved into a status symbol for members of upper society.

Prominent breeders hardly ever used their hunting skills. Kurzhaars participated in canine demonstrations. For fun, they were taken on hunts. Numerous dogs perished. The owners disregarded the safety protocols. Dogs suffer from negative temperatures and extended hypothermia.

In 1912, the first breed standard was accepted. Ten years later, the breed started to travel the globe and even reached North America. The German pointers’ magnificence astounded Charles Thornton. He was a well-known breeder who contributed to efforts to advance the breed. His efforts resulted in Kurzhaars being listed with the AKC.

Breeders’ efforts were nearly completely cut off. The World War started. The dogs turned into unique examples. Cold and hunger killed them. Moreover, the dogs were extremely depressed after losing their owner. A large number of them perished.

As a result, the breed faced extinction. Kurzhaars were recognized by the English Kennel Club only in 1948. After being categorized as a gundog breed, efforts were made to increase their population.

Kurzhaars were a popular and well-known breed by the end of the 20th century. There were more and more important people. Puppies from purebreds are now less expensive. However, popularity did not cause people to lose their passion for hunting.

These days, Kurzhaars are cherished by those who long for a dependable and quick friend, a proactive hunting partner. Hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and people who enjoy an active lifestyle can all benefit from this breed.

Kurzhaar: breed description

The Kurzhaar breed is described as a stately, graceful animal:

• The maximum height of a male is 66 cm. Girls are slightly shorter, but the difference is insignificant.
• Kurzhaar dogs have a spotted color. The main tone varies from almost black to the color of coffee with milk. The presence of spots is mandatory. Dogs with speckles are not rejected by judging in the rings. This is the norm.
• The coat should be short and hard. The maximum hair length is 2 cm. The coat is dense, the hairs do not stick out. This is a smooth-haired breed.
• The Kurzhaar breed standard pays close attention to the color of the nose. The color of the individual is taken into account. So, brown, black, beige and even marble pigmentation of the nose will not be a reason for culling if the animal"s fur color matches the requirements.
• Kurzhaar – the owner of flat, hanging ears. This means that the breeder must pay special attention to the hygiene of the hearing organs. Not only timely cleaning will be required, but also artificial ventilation. Ideally, the tips of the ears should reach the dog"s lips.
• The eyes are usually brown. It is interesting that young individuals have a lighter color of the iris. By this feature, you can distinguish an adult dog from a youngster who is just gaining strength.
• The jaw is developed, the dentition is complete, the bite is scissor-shaped. It is important that the pet has all the teeth in place.
• The tail is long, thick at the base, does not curl. Hunting representatives have it docked, but for elite specimens this requirement is not necessary.

Disqualification will occur for the following deviations:

• short or excessively long ears;
• lack of teeth;
• lack of speckles, spots;
• solid white color;
• presence of dewlap;
• slouching;
• wavy or long hair.

When evaluating each representative, they are generally very strict. All along, Kurzhaars have been show dogs. Any departure from the standard is deemed unacceptable by breeders.

How to choose a Kurzhaar puppy?

You shouldn’t rely solely on your cursory understanding if you’re looking for information on how to tell if a Kurzhaar is not purebred. Puppies of the Kurzhaar breed should only be purchased when a dog handler familiar with the breed is present.

Never adopt a child from an unidentified parent. Making contact with specialized nurseries is preferable. The truth is that a lot of breed traits don’t show up until later in life. Therefore, it is challenging to predict the type of Kurzhaar puppies based solely on their color. Infants are light at birth, but they will eventually grow darker. Keep in mind that a specimen is worth more the darker its coat.

You can have white puppies for free. This is a flaw. Breeding will not be permitted for them. However, they can make good companions or hunting partners.

Bringing a cowardly or vicious puppy inside the house is unacceptable. Choose an active, curious child. It shouldn’t, however, be the biggest or smallest member of the litter. The puppy should ideally be curious and approach you to smell.

A lot of Kurzhaars don’t move into new homes until they are six months old. At this point, the person’s psyche is stable and the color has already been expressed. Still, it’s best for the infant to find a new home as soon as possible. It requires early socialization and training.

Dogs under six months old have poor condition adaptation. By nature, they are very loving. It would be preferable for you to take a kennel dog in this situation that has never had an owner.

How should I select a Kurzhaar puppy?

It is thought that the closest relative is a dog that resembles a Kurzhaar. The Kurzhaar and Drahthaar are comparable because of this. On purpose, they were split into two distinct breeds. Langhaar and Weimaraner are comparable as well. Studies reveal the existence of shared characteristics.

Particularly when they are still puppies, a white dog with speckles can easily be mistaken for a Dalmatian. Keep in mind that Kurzhaars are an expensive breed and use caution when making your selection.

Kurzhaar, the German name for the Shorthaired Pointer, is an amazing breed. These dogs, who are well-known for being gregarious and active, are excellent companions for busy households. They make devoted pets and exceptional working dogs because of their intelligence and desire to please, which frequently come through in training.

The adaptability of the Kurzhaar is one of their greatest charms. They perform well in a variety of settings, including hunting, dog sports, and outdoor enjoyment. They require a lot of exercise due to their athleticism, but they also enjoy relaxing on the couch after a fun-filled day.

Not only does the German Shorthaired Pointer have an elegant coat that requires little care, but it is also incredibly useful. Their amiable nature enables them to get along with children and other pets, fostering a happy home. All things considered, this breed perfectly captures the spirit of adventure and companionship.

Active families and outdoor enthusiasts will find the German Shorthaired Pointer to be an excellent companion due to its boundless energy and versatility. Because of its strong drive and keen intelligence, this breed excels in hunting and other sports, but it also needs love and companionship at home. Prospective owners can create a fulfilling environment for their pets and themselves by having a thorough understanding of their unique needs and characteristics.

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