Portuguese Pointer

Perdigueiro Português
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Portuguese Pointer is a versatile hunting breed from Portugal, known for its intelligence, loyalty, and gentle nature. They require significant exercise and thrive on human companionship, making them good family dogs with proper socialization.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Portugal as a versatile hunting dog, used for pointing, retrieving, and tracking.
  • Likely descends from Iberian hunting dogs.
  • Also used as a companion dog.

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female20 to 23 inches (52-58 cm)35 to 55 pounds (16-25 kg)
Male22 to 24 inches (56-60 cm)44 to 66 pounds (20-30 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • Yellow (ranging from light to dark), sometimes with white markings on chest, neck, and legs.
Type
  • Short and dense
Length
  • Short

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Low; occasional brushing
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Proportionate to body, with a square and well-defined stop.
Skull
  • Broad and slightly convex
Ears
  • Triangular, thin, and set on at eye level; folded
Eyes
  • Oval, medium-sized, and dark (usually brown or amber).
Nose
  • Brown or black.
Muzzle
  • Straight and square, in line with the skull.
Teeth
  • Scissor bite
Neck
  • Muscular and well-arched.
Forequarters
  • Muscular and well-developed.
Fore Legs
  • Straight and vertical, with strong bones.
Hindquarters
  • Muscular and well-angulated.
Hind Legs
  • Straight and parallel when viewed from behind.
Feet
  • Oval, with compact, well-arched toes and hard pads.
Tail
  • Thick at base, tapers towards the tip, typically reaching the hock; carried horizontally or slightly curved when moving
Gait
  • Agile and energetic; long, free strides

Temperament

  • Intelligent, loyal, and eager to please.
  • Gentle and affectionate nature.
  • Can be sensitive and needs positive training methods.
  • Can be independent and sometimes stubborn, but also very devoted to their family.

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Very affectionate
Good with Children
  • Good; especially with proper socialization from puppyhood.
Good with Dogs
  • Good; can be wary with unfamiliar dogs if not socialized.
Good with Cats
  • Generally good with cats if raised together, but may chase if not properly socialized.
Openness to Strangers
  • Can be reserved with strangers.
Playfulness Level
  • Moderately playful
Protective Nature
  • Moderately protective of family
Adaptability Level
  • Adapts well to various living situations given adequate exercise; may need time to adjust.

Working Roles

  • Hunting dog (pointing, retrieving, tracking).
  • Companion dog.

Exercise Needs

  • High; needs daily vigorous exercise, including running, walks, and playtime.
  • Prefers large open areas to run, such as fields and large parks

Health

  • Generally healthy breed; may be prone to hip dysplasia and some eye conditions.

Additional Notes

  • Early socialization and training are important for this breed.
  • They thrive on human companionship and don’t do well when left alone for long periods.

References