Portuguese pointing dog

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Here, you will find all the useful information about portuguese pointing dog. 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.

Explore this page to discover everything you need to know.

Overall description of the breed

As its name suggests, the Portuguese Pointer has its roots in Portugal, a direct descendant of the ancient Peninsular Pointer. Breed specialists have been able to find traces of its presence in the Iberian Peninsula since the 12th century, and other types of Pointer probably contributed to its creation, such as the Burgos Pointer or the Italian Pointer.

Known for hundreds of years in the country, the Portuguese Pointer is appreciated for its great hunting qualities and docility. It was favoured by the bourgeoisie for decades, especially in the kennels of the king and the nobility, who used it to hunt small and medium-sized game, as well as for falconry. Called the "Podengo de Mostra" from the 14th century onwards, it is also said to be the origin of the English Pointer. Two centuries later, it inherited the name "perdigueiro", which is rooted in the word "perdiz", which means partridge in the Portuguese language.

The International Cynological Federation registered it definitively on 13 July 1955 and the latest update of the official standard in force was published on 4 November 2008.

The morphology is well balanced, with a solid and harmonious body, an intelligent dog and a tireless walker. It has a beautiful morphological construction, its muscles are fine but powerful. The Portuguese Pointing Dog is a medium-sized dog, rather high on its feet, with a slightly sloping topline at the loins, combined with a broad chest and deep chest, which give it a great deal of presence when it is standing.

The head is well proportioned to the body, with a muzzle of medium length and always square in shape. The Portuguese Pointer's coat is short, hard, close and soft in texture. It is mainly fawn or yellow in colour, with various shades possible, from pale to darker, sometimes with white on various parts of the body, especially on the legs, head, neck and chest.

The Portuguese Pointing Dog is a particularly affectionate companion to its owners, at ease both indoors and outdoors, it is a remarkable hunter and a courageous worker with a strong character that will be employed solely for the purpose of accomplishing the tasks assigned to it. Particularly lively and attentive to his social group, he is a sociable dog with his fellow dogs and other animals in general, close to his masters, he will do everything to show them his love and meet their needs as best he can.

He enjoys playing with his owners, especially long walks in nature or play activities, mainly based on tracking or obedience. One of its primary qualities is versatility, excellent hunter and guardian, it also performs well as a pet, faithful and loyal, the Portuguese Pointer is a reliable and trustworthy life partner.

Adult: The Portuguese Pointing Dog will weigh approximately 20-27 kg (44-59.5 lbs), withers height will be approximately 56 cm (22") maximum for males and 52 cm (20.5") maximum for females.

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Origins

The Portuguese Pointer, or Perdigueiro Português, is a dog breed originating from Portugal. Its roots date back several centuries, and it is considered one of the oldest pointing dog breeds in the country. Probably descended from Iberian hunting dogs crossed with Saint-Hubert dogs imported from Central Europe, this breed was specially developed to meet the needs of local hunters. Its exceptional tracking and game retrieving skills make it an ideal hunting companion. The Portuguese Pointer is not only appreciated for its hunting abilities, but also for its friendly and loyal temperament, making it an excellent pet.

History

The history of the Portuguese Pointer is closely linked to the history of hunting in Portugal. Mentioned in ancient writings dating back to the 16th century, this breed was used by Portuguese nobles for hunting feathered game. Over time, its skills and adaptability made it popular among hunters of all social classes. In the 19th century, the breed was on the verge of extinction due to wars and changes in hunting practices. Fortunately, preservation efforts were undertaken in the early 20th century by passionate dog lovers, allowing this breed to survive and thrive to this day. Today, the Portuguese Pointer is recognized and appreciated not only in Portugal but also internationally.

Standard

The standard of the Portuguese Pointer breed has been established to ensure that these dogs retain their distinctive characteristics. They should have a medium size, with males measuring between 52 and 60 cm and females between 48 and 56 cm at the withers. Their weight generally ranges between 20 and 27 kg. Their coat is short, dense, and smooth, often fawn in color with shades ranging from light yellow to dark brown. Their head is well proportioned with a square muzzle, expressive amber eyes, and V-shaped drooping ears. Their body is well muscled, with a deep chest and a straight back. The tail is usually of medium length and carried low.

Physical characteristics

The Portuguese Pointer has physical characteristics that distinguish it from other pointing dog breeds. Its body is harmonious and well-balanced, giving it great agility and endurance. Its paws are strong and well-developed, allowing for excellent performance on different hunting terrains. The texture of its coat is ideal for protecting it from harsh weather conditions and thorns when in nature. Its wide and powerful muzzle is suited for seizing and retrieving game without injuring it. The expressive and intelligent eyes of the Portuguese Pointer often reveal its gentle nature and keen sense of observation, essential qualities for an effective hunting dog.

Character

The Portuguese Pointer is known for its balanced character and friendly temperament. It is naturally sociable, affectionate and very attached to its family. This dog shows great patience and tolerance, making it an excellent companion for children. Its intelligence and desire to please its owners greatly facilitate its education and training. As a hunting dog, it is brave, determined, and has exceptional scenting abilities. It is also known for its loyalty, not hesitating to protect its family members in case of danger. This dog is often described as gentle and loving, while being an excellent worker in the hunting field.

Life expectancy

The Portuguese Pointer's life expectancy is relatively long for a dog of its size, generally ranging between 12 and 14 years. This longevity is largely due to its robustness and excellent overall health. However, like all breeds, it may be prone to certain hereditary conditions such as hip dysplasia or eye problems. To ensure a long and healthy life, it is essential to provide a balanced diet, regular veterinary care, and enough exercise. Portuguese Pointer owners should also be attentive to any signs of illness and consult a veterinarian at the onset of worrying symptoms to ensure their dog remains healthy throughout its life.

Exercise and activity needs

The Portuguese Pointer is an energetic breed that requires a lot of exercise to stay healthy and happy. It needs long daily walks, interactive play sessions, and free time to run and explore. As a hunting dog, it especially enjoys activities that stimulate its hunting instinct, such as fetch games and tracking activities. Agility training and other canine sports can also be beneficial to channel its energy and strengthen its bond with its owner. A lack of exercise can lead to destructive behaviors and anxiety, so it is crucial to provide regular and adequate physical and mental activity.

Recommended diet

The Portuguese Pointer's diet should be balanced and adapted to its high energy needs. A high-quality diet, rich in animal proteins, is essential to support its muscle mass and physical activity. Premium kibbles for active or working dogs are generally recommended. It is also possible to supplement its diet with fresh foods, such as lean meat, vegetables, and fruits. Portions should be adjusted according to its age, weight, level of activity, and overall health. It is important to divide its daily ration into two meals to avoid the risk of stomach torsion, and always provide fresh water freely.

Training and obedience

The Portuguese Pointer is intelligent and eager to please, which makes it relatively easy to train. However, a gentle yet firm approach is essential. Education should start at a young age to establish solid foundations and instill good habits. Positive training methods, based on rewards and motivation, are particularly effective with this breed. Early socialization is also crucial to help them get along well with other animals and people. The Portuguese Pointer excels in hunting-specific training activities, but can also succeed in other disciplines such as agility, tracking, or obedience, thanks to its versatility and enthusiasm.

Behavior with children

The Portuguese Water Dog is known for its gentle and patient behavior with children. Its affectionate and protective nature makes it an excellent companion for families. It is generally very tolerant and can play for long periods with children without showing signs of annoyance. However, as with all breeds, it is important to supervise interactions between dogs and young children to prevent accidental accidents. Teaching children to respect the dog's boundaries, not to disturb him while eating or resting, and to interact with him in an appropriate manner is essential for harmonious cohabitation. With proper socialization and education, the Portuguese Water Dog can become a true friend to the children in the family.

Compatibility with Other Animals

The Portuguese Pointer can get along well with other pets if properly socialized from a young age. Its sociable and friendly nature generally makes interactions with other dogs easier. However, due to its hunting instinct, it may see small animals such as cats or rodents as potential prey. A gradual introduction and initial supervision are recommended to ensure a good relationship. Over time and with proper training, many Portuguese Pointers learn to live in harmony with other pets. It is important to remain vigilant and never leave interactions unsupervised until you are sure of the compatibility between the animals.

Grooming needs

The Portuguese Pointer has a short and dense coat that requires little grooming. A weekly brushing is sufficient to remove dead hair and keep its coat in good condition. During shedding periods in spring and autumn, more frequent brushing may be necessary to manage hair loss. It is also important to regularly check its ears to avoid infections, trim its nails monthly, and brush its teeth several times a week to prevent dental problems. Bathing is only necessary when the dog is particularly dirty, and it is recommended to use shampoos specially formulated for dogs to avoid irritating its skin.

Health

The Portuguese Pointer is generally healthy and robust, but like all breeds, it may be predisposed to certain inherited medical conditions. The most common health problems include hip dysplasia, eye problems such as cataracts, and some skin conditions. Regular veterinary care, including annual exams and necessary vaccinations, is essential to keep your dog healthy. Balanced nutrition, adequate physical activity, and prevention against parasites are also crucial. It is advised to choose a responsible breeder who performs health tests on their breeding dogs to minimize the risks of inherited diseases.

Average price

The average price of a Portuguese Pointer puppy varies depending on several factors, including lineage, breeder reputation, and region. In general, the cost of a puppy can range from 800 to 1500 euros (approximately 900 to 1700 dollars). Puppies from champion bloodlines or with parents holding hunting titles may be more expensive. It is important to do thorough research and choose a reputable breeder who conducts health tests on their breeding dogs. Investing in a quality, well-socialized, and healthy puppy can avoid many long-term problems and ensure a harmonious relationship with your new companion.

Expenses

Annual expenses for a Portuguese Pointer can vary significantly depending on various factors such as healthcare, diet, insurance, and activities. On average, owners can expect to spend between 800 and 1200 euros (900 to 1300 dollars) per year. This includes the costs of high-quality food, regular veterinary visits, preventive parasite medications, and vaccinations. Other expenses may include grooming fees, accessories like collars and leashes, as well as toys and training items. Pet insurance can add an additional expense, but it is often helpful in covering unexpected medical costs.

Name ideas

For a Portuguese Pointer, choosing a name can be a fun and meaningful experience. For example, "Fidalgo", which means noble in Portuguese, could suit a dog with a dignified and elegant character. "Flecha", meaning arrow, could be ideal for a fast and agile dog. "Brisa" evokes a light breeze, perfect for a dog with a gentle temperament. "Luz" means light, and could be appropriate for a dog with a light coat. "Sombra", meaning shadow, could be for a dog with a darker coat. "Ria" refers to a small river, highlighting your dog's love for water. "Estrela", or star, could be perfect for a bright and remarkable dog. "Zé" is a common nickname for José, giving a familiar and affectionate touch. "Vasco", in homage to the famous explorer Vasco de Gama, could suit an adventurous dog. Finally, "Sol" means sun, ideal for a dog shining with joy and energy.

Legislation and regulation

Regarding legislation and regulation, there are no specific restrictions for the Portuguese Pointer in most countries. However, it is always important to check local laws regarding the ownership of hunting dogs and wildlife regulations. In some areas, special permits may be required to use these dogs for hunting purposes. In general, owners must abide by local laws regarding dog registration, mandatory rabies vaccination, and rules on keeping dogs on a leash and picking up waste. It is advised to consult local authorities to ensure compliance with all applicable regulations.

Official recognition

The Portuguese Pointer is officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) under standard No. 187. It is also recognized by other cynological organizations around the world, such as the American Kennel Club (AKC), the United Kennel Club (UKC), and the Kennel Club of the United Kingdom. In Portugal, the official breed club is the Clube Português de Canicultura (CPC), which works closely with breeders to maintain breed standards and promote their health and well-being. Recognition by these different organizations ensures that the Portuguese Pointer is well integrated into the global cynological heritage and respects rigorous breed standards.

Pedigrees

For a Portuguese Pointer, getting a quality pedigree is essential to guarantee the authenticity and purity of the breed. Pedigrees provide detailed information about the dog's ancestors, including their lineage, hunting and show titles, as well as their health test results. Responsible breeders register their litters with breed clubs and cynological organizations, allowing future owners to check their puppy's background. A pedigree recognized by the FCI or another international organization is often a guarantee of quality and seriousness, ensuring that the dog comes from carefully selected and raised lines in accordance with breed standards.

Destination and usage

The Portuguese Pointer is primarily used as a hunting dog, specialized in locating and retrieving game birds. Thanks to its exceptional sense of smell, great endurance, and agility, it is particularly effective on varied and difficult terrains. Outside of hunting, this breed is also appreciated as a companion dog thanks to its gentle and loyal character. Some owners also train it for canine sports such as agility, obedience, and tracking. Its versatility and desire to please make it an excellent candidate for various activities, and it can also be used as a therapy dog due to its calming and affectionate nature.

Prohibitions

To this day, there are no specific prohibitions regarding the Portuguese Pointer in most countries or regions of the world. However, it is always wise to check local regulations before traveling or moving with a hunting dog. Some regions may have restrictions on hunting dogs due to the protection of local wildlife or specific regulations on the importation of animals. It is also advisable to inquire about quarantine and vaccination requirements in foreign countries to avoid any complications during international travel with your Portuguese Pointer.

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