German spaniel

Welcome to our page dedicated to the breed of dog german spaniel!

Here, you will find all the useful information about german spaniel. This descriptive profile will allow you to discover the aspects of this breed. You can notably consult information about the average price, monthly and annual upkeep expenses, their health, name ideas, as well as their official recognition by competent authorities.

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Overall description of the breed

The German Spaniel is a breed of Germanic origin that has been present in Europe for several centuries. Little is known about its true ancestors, but its original name "Wachtelhund" (quail dog) comes mainly from its use for hunting birds.

It was not until the 19th century that professional breeding began, with some exceptional dogs like Lord Augusta L forming part of the foundation of the breed as we know it today. Breeders such as Frederic Roberth and Rudolf Friess have helped the standard to evolve in the right direction and set the characteristics of the perfect German hunting dog.

The International Cynological Federation officially recognized the breed and registered it definitively on December 3, 1954, the last update of the official standard in force was published on July 24, 1996.

The German Hound, or "Wachtelhund" as it was originally called, is a robustly built, vigorous dog, a remarkable hunter of small and medium-sized game. Its conception and morphological development were rigorously and exclusively designed for predatory activities. Its body is longer than it is tall, inscribable in a rectangle, with a straight, strongly built topline and a slightly sloping croup. The ribcage is long, broad and deep, descending below the elbow, the ribs well sprung, neither barrel-shaped nor thin.

The head is of medium length and flat, with a strong muzzle, never pointed, not shorter than the skull, and a faint stop. The coat is medium long, slightly wavy, occasionally curly (Astrakhan), or long-haired, always lying flat on the whole body. The brown colour of his coat was dominant at the time of the first litters dating back several decades, it is only later that the red or russet tint made their appearance. The coat is lined with a thick, dense undercoat, the tail is long and covered with abundant hair.

The German Spaniel is an affectionate companion, always attentive to its owners, particularly docile, and a good hunter, all of which make it a very reliable and trustworthy teammate.

Jovial by nature, he is not a fearful or aggressive dog towards man, close to his family circle, he needs to feel loved to feel good in his paws.

Courageous and willing, he will not miss an opportunity to spend time on long walks with his family or his tracking partner, but will also be calm in his home.

Versatile and loyal, the Deutscher Wachtelhund is a true hunting enthusiast, always friendly and self-confident in his natural environment, but also a great everyday companion for the whole family.

Adult: The German Spaniel will weigh approximately 18-25 kg (40-55 lbs), with a height at the withers of approximately 48-54 cm (18-21") for males and 45-51 cm (17.5-20") for females.

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Origins

The German Spaniel, or Deutscher Wachtelhund, has its origins in Germany, where it was developed in the 19th century. This breed descends from traditional German hunting dogs, selected for their exceptional skills in hunting feathered game. Known for its versatility, it is able to work on land and in water, making it an ideal companion for hunters. Its ability to hunt in various environments makes it a valuable dog for hunting enthusiasts.

History

The history of the German Spaniel dates back to the late 19th century, when German breeders set out to recreate an old versatile hunting dog breed. Selection work was carried out by Friedrich Roberth, who aimed to develop a dog capable of hunting all kinds of game. Through carefully planned crosses with local hunting dogs, the German Spaniel became a distinct breed in 1903. Since then, it has been recognized for its exceptional abilities and adaptability, gaining popularity among European hunters.

Standard

The standard of the German Spaniel breed defines a medium-sized dog, with a height at the withers of 45 to 54 cm and a weight ranging from 18 to 25 kg. It has a well-proportioned head with a powerful muzzle, drooping ears, and expressive dark brown eyes. Its body is muscular and robust, designed for endurance and speed. Its dense and wavy coat, often brown or brown with white markings, is adapted to the difficult and varied conditions it may encounter during hunting.

Physical characteristics

The German Wirehaired Pointer is distinguished by its robust physical characteristics suitable for hunting. It has a dense and wavy coat that protects it from bad weather and undergrowth, often in brown or roan color. Its musculature is well developed, allowing it to run quickly and swim efficiently. Its drooping ears and expressive eyes demonstrate its intelligence and liveliness. Its strong legs and resistant paw pads allow it to cover long distances on various terrains, making it an ideal companion for hunters.

Character

The German Wirehaired Pointer is known for its energetic, intelligent, and loyal character. It is a passionate hunting dog, always ready to work hard and with determination. Its gentle and affectionate nature also makes it an excellent family companion. It is sociable and gets along well with other dogs, but its hunting instinct can sometimes make it a little too enthusiastic. It requires firm and consistent training to channel its energy and intelligence. Its desire to please and its devotion make it an easy dog to train and live with.

Life expectancy

The average life expectancy of the German Spaniel is generally between 12 and 14 years, which is relatively long for a dog of this size. To maximize its longevity, it is essential to provide it with a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and plenty of exercise. Disease prevention and good hygiene also contribute to maintaining its health. With proper attention to its physical and mental needs, this dog can live a long and active life, accompanying its owner on many hunting and outdoor adventures.

Exercise and activity needs

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a very active dog that needs a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. It requires at least one to two hours of intense activity per day, including long walks, retrieval games, and swimming sessions. As a hunting dog, it particularly enjoys activities that stimulate its natural instinct, such as simulated hunting courses or tracking games. Without sufficient exercise, it can become destructive or develop undesirable behaviors. An active and committed owner is therefore essential for this energetic breed.

Recommended diet

To maintain the German Spaniel's health, a diet rich in proteins and nutrients is essential. High-quality kibble, specifically formulated for active dogs, is recommended to meet their energy needs. It is also beneficial to incorporate fresh foods such as lean meat, vegetables, and whole grains for a balanced diet. Dietary supplements, such as omega-3 and vitamins, can support the health of their coat and joints. Portions should be adjusted according to their activity level to avoid obesity.

Training and obedience

The education and training of the German Spaniel must begin at a young age to develop good habits and reliable obedience. They are intelligent and eager to please, making them receptive to positive and consistent training. Positive reinforcement methods, such as rewards and praise, are particularly effective. Early socialization is also crucial to get them used to different environments, people, and other animals. Regular and stimulating training is essential to channel their energy and hunting instincts in a constructive way.

Behavior with children

The German Wirehaired Pointer is generally kind and patient with children, making it a good family companion. Its affectionate nature and desire to please allow it to easily integrate into a family. However, due to its energy and hunting instinct, it is important to monitor interactions with young children to avoid rough play. Teaching children to respect the dog and interact with it appropriately is essential. With proper socialization and supervision, it can become a loyal and protective friend for children.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The German Shorthaired Pointer can coexist with other pets, but early socialization is crucial to ensure a good relationship. Its hunting instinct may sometimes lead it to see small animals as prey, so it is important to monitor initial interactions. With dogs of similar or larger size, it may be more comfortable, especially if they are introduced gradually. Owners should be vigilant and supervise meetings with smaller animals to avoid incidents. Proper training and ongoing socialization are essential for a harmonious cohabitation.

Grooming needs

The German Wirehaired Pointer has a dense and wavy coat that requires regular maintenance to stay in good condition. Weekly brushing is recommended to remove dead hair and prevent knots. During shedding seasons, in spring and autumn, more frequent brushing may be necessary. It is also important to check and clean its ears regularly to prevent infections. Baths should be given occasionally, unless the dog gets particularly dirty. Keeping the claws at an appropriate length is also essential for its health and comfort.

Health

The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally healthy, but like all breeds, it can be prone to certain health problems. Common conditions include hip dysplasia, ear infections, and some eye diseases. A balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and plenty of exercise are essential to maintaining its health. Responsible breeders conduct health tests on their breeding dogs to minimize the risks of hereditary diseases. By carefully monitoring your dog's health and reacting quickly to any signs of discomfort, you can help ensure a long and healthy life.

Average price

The average price of a German Spaniel puppy can vary depending on the breeder, bloodline, and region. Generally, a puppy of this breed costs between 800 and 1500 euros, or between 900 and 1700 dollars. This price often includes the first vaccinations, health certificates, and sometimes a pedigree. It is important to choose a reputable breeder who tests their dogs for hereditary diseases and raises their puppies in good conditions. Investing in a well-bred puppy can reduce future costs in healthcare and behavioral issues.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a German Shorthaired Pointer can vary, but on average, they range between 1000 and 1500 euros, or 1100 to 1600 dollars. This includes high-quality food, regular veterinary care, vaccinations, health insurance, grooming products, and accessories such as collars and leashes. Additional costs may arise for training, obedience classes, or specific activities like hunting. Good financial planning is essential to ensure the well-being of your dog and cover all necessary expenses.

Name ideas

Choosing a name for your German Spaniel can reflect its unique qualities. For example, "Hunter" evokes its hunting instinct, while "Blaze" symbolizes its energy and liveliness. "Bruno", meaning "brown" in German, may refer to the typical color of its coat. "Rex", which means "king" in Latin, can emphasize its noble appearance. "Fritz", a classic German name, is simple and elegant. "Shadow" recalls its discreet yet effective role in hunting. "Max" is a strong and short name. "Storm" evokes its power and speed. "Axel" is a Germanic name meaning "peace". "Bolt" for its speed.

Legislation and regulation

In general, the German Spaniel is not subject to any specific restrictions in most countries. However, it is always advisable to check local regulations regarding the possession of hunting dogs. In Germany, its country of origin, there are no specific bans, but owners must comply with laws regarding animal ownership and treatment. It is also important to be informed about hunting and firearm possession regulations if the dog is used for hunting purposes. A good understanding of local laws is essential to avoid legal issues.

Official recognition

The German Spaniel is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard number 104 in group 8, section 2: Retrievers - Flushing Dogs. In the United States, it is recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) and in Canada by the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC). In Germany, the official breed club is the Deutscher Wachtelhund Club, which plays a crucial role in the preservation and promotion of the breed. This global recognition demonstrates the importance of this breed in the world of hunting and working dogs.

Pedigrees

The pedigrees available for the German Spaniel are crucial to ensure the purity of the breed and the health of the puppies. Responsible breeders provide pedigrees detailing the dog's lineage over several generations. These documents include information about the dog's ancestors, their championship titles, their health test results, and sometimes their hunting performances. In Germany, the Deutscher Wachtelhund Club maintains a pedigree registry. For potential buyers, checking the pedigree is essential to ensure they are acquiring a high-quality and well-bred dog.

Destination and usage

The German Wirehaired Pointer is mainly used as a hunting dog thanks to its developed instinct and versatile skills. It excels in feathered game hunting, but can also be used to hunt small and medium sized mammals. In addition to its hunting abilities, it is also appreciated as a companion dog for active families. Its loyal and energetic nature makes it suitable for various roles, including participation in canine sports such as agility and tracking. Its versatility and character make it valuable in many situations.

Prohibitions

The German Spaniel is generally not subject to strict prohibitions, but some regions may have specific regulations regarding hunting dogs or breeds considered potentially dangerous. It is essential to inquire about local laws before acquiring a German Spaniel, especially if you plan to travel or move abroad with him. In some countries, restrictions may apply to large dogs or those used for hunting. Always check with local authorities to avoid legal complications.

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