Do you enjoy wide open spaces, walks in nature, and long outings in the forest or fields? The Italian Pointer could be the perfect companion. A renowned pointing dog, it appeals to hunting enthusiasts with its remarkable sense of smell, but also to dog lovers with its elegance and balanced temperament. Discover this ancient breed with its unique character.
Appearance: a typically Italian elegance
Also known as the Bracco Italiano or Italian Pointer, the Italian Pointer is among the oldest breeds of pointing dogs in Europe. It is distinguished by the pronounced back of its skull, its long, drooping ears, and its elongated muzzle, reminiscent of that of the Bloodhound.
A hunter with a noble bearing
With its powerful musculature, straight back, and broad chest, the Italian Pointer displays a silhouette that is both robust and elegant. Its long, dynamic trot reinforces this impression of presence and nobility, characteristic of the breed.
Note : Tail docking is unfortunately still practiced on some dogs. In several European countries, such as Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, this procedure is prohibited, except for medical reasons, in order to protect animal welfare.
Coat color
Its coat is short and comes in several colors. Some individuals are entirely white, while others have speckles, spots, or markings in reddish-brown shades. The most common colors are:
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amber,
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brown,
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orange.
Size and weight
Morphology varies according to sex. Females generally measure between 55 and 62 cm, while males reach 58 to 67 cm at the withers. Weight is most often between 25 and 40 kg, depending on the dog's build.
Character: gentle companion with a remarkable sense of smell
Like the Labrador Retriever, the Italian Pointer is known for its calm, sociable, and patient temperament. Sensitive and attentive, it is gentle with children. Despite its imposing size, it integrates perfectly into family life and remains calm even in busy environments.
A very strong hunting instinct
Beneath its peaceful exterior lies a true hunting dog. Its instinct is deeply ingrained, which can make training more demanding if its specific needs are not understood. Always alert, it quickly detects the slightest movement and can spontaneously give chase. A valuable asset for hunters, but a behavior that requires careful management on a daily basis.
Education and activities: the keys to its balance
Curious and passionate about tracking, the Italian Pointer needs freedom and space. Exploring, sniffing, and observing are integral to its well-being. A large, well-fenced garden provides an ideal setting. Regular walks in nature, on a leash, are also essential.
Life in an urban environment, often noisy and lacking in stimulation, is generally not suitable for this breed.
Which activities should be prioritized?
Descended from a line of hunting dogs, the Italian Pointer thrives on having a mission. It excels particularly at bird hunting and is known for its reliability and attentiveness. However, it can flourish perfectly well without hunting, provided it receives sufficient stimulation.
Disciplines such as tracking, mantrailing, or object retrieval allow him to exert himself physically while also using his intelligence and exceptional sense of smell.
Nutrition: meeting your needs as an athlete
An active and muscular dog, the Italian Pointer generally has a good appetite. A balanced diet is essential, especially if it is used for hunting. Its ration must cover all of its nutritional needs: quality protein, vitamins, and minerals.
Since every dog is unique, it is recommended to seek advice from a veterinarian or canine nutrition specialist to adapt its diet to its lifestyle.
Preventing digestive problems
Some German Shorthaired Pointers can be prone to gastric torsion, a serious condition. To reduce the risk, it is advisable to divide their daily ration into several small meals rather than offering one large one.
You can find a wide selection of suitable kibble, wet food and treats on the Zooplus online shop.
Treatment: minimally demanding, but regular.
The Italian Pointer's short, dense coat is easy to care for. Weekly brushing with a soft brush is usually enough to keep its coat clean and shiny.
However, its long, drooping ears require careful attention. Regular checks and gentle cleaning when soiled help prevent infections and ear infections, to which the breed is particularly prone.