The Pudelpointer is a dog breed native to Germany. The Germans bred it as a hunting dog, specifically as a pointer. The “Pudel” part of the dog's name completes the nod to the dog's mixed-breed ancestry. German breeder Baron von Zeditz came up with the Pudelpointer when he decided to produce his ideal pointing, tracking, and retrieving gun dog that can traverse both land and water. He produced the dog by crossing seven Pudels (“poodles” in English) with scores of pointers. The first Pudelpointer was produced from the union of an English Pointer from Kaiser Frederick III and a German hunting Pudel from a writer of hunting dog books. Since the Pudel had the stronger genes, many more pointers had to be brought in to achieve Zedlitz's intended balance of traits. Bodo Winterhelt introduced the resulting Pudelpointer to the United States in 1956, and today he remains the single most revered authority on the breed. Unlike most dog breeds, the Pudelpointer is primarily bred for function, rather than form. A dog must pass a hunt test that evaluates its field, tracking, and water skills before it is approved for breeding.
The Pudelpointer usually stands at 21 to 26 inches (53 to 66 centimeters) at the withers, and it weighs between 44 and 66 pounds (20 and 30 kilograms). The coat, which is an inch or 1 ½ inches long, is practically weather-resistant, thus being the main factor in the dog's outdoor versatility. To an extent, the coat is even water-repellant. The hairs that compose the coat are straight, wiry, harsh, and lay flat. The Pudelpointer is usually black, chestnut or liver-colored.
Personality
Like its Poodle ancestors, the Pudelpointer is highly intelligent, loves water and retrieving, and is easy to train. It also has the great desire to hunt, great pointing instinct, and an outstanding nose, just like its English Pointer forefathers. Despite its hunting pedigree, the Pudelpointer makes for a great domestic companion, as well. Daily exercise or activity is strongly recommended to keep the dog away from idleness and promote a healthy way of life.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12 - 14 years |
| Nicknames: | Poodle-pointer |
Pudelpointer Build Information
The Pudelpointer usually stands at 21 to 26 inches (53 to 66 centimeters) at the withers, and it weighs between 44 and 66 pounds (20 and 30 kilograms). The coat, which is an inch or 1 ½ inches long, is practically weather-resistant, thus being the main factor in the dog's outdoor versatility. To an extent, the coat is even water-repellant. The hairs that compose the coat are straight, wiry, harsh, and lay flat. The Pudelpointer is usually black, chestnut or liver-colored.
| Size: | Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
Like its Poodle ancestors, the Pudelpointer is highly intelligent, loves water and retrieving, and is easy to train. It also has the great desire to hunt, great pointing instinct, and an outstanding nose, just like its English Pointer forefathers. Despite its hunting pedigree, the Pudelpointer makes for a great domestic companion, as well. Daily exercise or activity is strongly recommended to keep the dog away from idleness and promote a healthy way of life.
| Activity Level: | Active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Kid friendly |
Appearance
The Pudelpointer is not a major shedder, and its coat is rather short-haired. So, it needs little grooming. A combing or brushing session from time to time might be needed to get rid of dead or loose hair.
| Shedding: | Little |
| Grooming: | Low maintenance |
Pudelpointer Common Health Conditions
Generally the Pudelpointer is a healthy dog breed; it does not suffer from common health problems or peculiarities.
Pudelpointer Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Bodo Winterhelt founded the Pudelpointer Club of North America (PCNA) in 1977. The PCNA is the oldest recognized authority for the breed. The American Kennel Club (AKC) does not recognize the Pudelpointer, even though it's not of its own will. Breeders believe that such recognition could deemphasize the dog's functionality in favor of its looks, thus turning it into a show breed. The typical lifespan of a Pudelpointer is 12 to 14 years
| Training: | Easy to train |