The German Shorthaired Pointer is an early example of fine German engineering. He was created in Germany in the mid- to the late 19th century to be a multipurpose hunting dog. The GSP was probably derived from the German bird dog crossed with various German scenthounds. English Pointers were brought in to give the new breed some elegance.
Besides being a super hunting dog, the German Shorthair is a standout in the show ring. Two German Shorthairs have taken Best in Show at Westminster Kennel Club: Ch. Kan-Point’s VJK Autumn Roses (Carlee) in 2005 and Ch. Gretchenhof Columbia River in 1974.
The GSP has been hunted with success on a variety of quarry: game birds, possum, rabbit, raccoon, and even deer. With his webbed feet and sleek but sturdy construction, the GSP burnishes his résumé as one of dogdom’s finest swimmers. Emblematic of the breed’s eager versatility was Marvin, a GSP from North Carolina, who in late 2013 achieved his 75th AKC title.