Differences Between German Shorthaired & English Pointers

German shorthaired pointers and English pointers both possess extraordinary scenting ability and a strong desire to please. While they may seem similar in many ways, they vastly differ in temperament and color. Whether you are looking for a family dog or a hunting dog that will excel in the field, understanding the pros and cons of each breed will help you choose the best dog for your needs.

  1. Coat and Color

    • A German shorthaired pointer typically has a liver coat, or a lighter coat speckled with darker spots or markings. He may also have areas of white on his coat, which is acceptable. An English pointer has a combination of white or solid color with liver, red, orange or black in the coat. A German shorthair with solid liver, red, orange or black is frowned upon by breed standards. While the coats of both breeds are short and dense, the English pointer's is slightly sleeker.

    Temperament

    • English pointers, while devoted to man, have a fierce desire to work and have a very active mind. A German shorthaired tends to be more affable and calm, yet still requires an exercise program if he is not used out in the field for hunting. The English pointer breed can appear aloof, independent and focused on his job while a German shorthaired will look to his master for approval and affection.

    Size and Conformation

    • While English pointers and German shorthaireds are similar in size, German shorthaireds are slightly smaller when mature. The median line between the eyes of a German shorthaired is shallower, and the occipital bone is more subtle, than an English pointer's. An English pointer has a long, straight tail; while the German shorthaired breed standard is a docked tail. A German shorthaired's docked tail should not bend toward the head of the dog, while it is acceptable if an English pointer's tail does.

    Additional Traits

    • English pointers are bred to be useful hunting birds. German shorthaireds not only assist on bird hunts but also retrieve birds. A German shorthaired is skilled at tracking other wild animals, such as rabbits. English pointers traditionally hunt in groups, thereby working together, while German shorthaireds hunt independently. You will commonly find a German shorthaired pointer hunting close to his master, while a pack of English pointers will be tracking as a unit with a party of hunters training behind.