Portuguese Pointer
Adult Size: Females 20-22 inches and 35-48 pounds, Males 20-22 inches and 44-59 pounds
Breed: Portuguese Pointer
Breed Group: FSS (Foundation Stock Service)/Hunting

The Portuguese Pointer is an FSS (Foundation Stock Service) breed. That means it isn’t recognized as an official breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC), but it will be soon. Groups like the Portuguese Pointer Club of America and the Portuguese Pointer Association are committed to obtaining recognition of the breed as well as preserving and celebrating it. For breed standards, breeders and showers can refer to the two breed standards maintained by the FCI and the UKC.

The Portuguese Pointer traces its origin to Portugal. There are indications that this breed was in existence over 1000 years ago. These dogs were bred and used for hunting many different kinds of game. Today, they are heavily favored in Portugal and are still actively used for hunting.

Portuguese Pointers are loyal and versatile. They're as happy hunting as they are living in a routine household. Portuguese Pointers are also extremely affectionate and tolerant of children, but because they are sporting and hunting dogs, they may not be safe around small pets like rodents.

Typically, the Portuguese Pointer is very intelligent and slavishly affectionate. While they are easy to train, they can be very cunning. As with any other dog, they can have minds of their own and will follow their instincts. These dogs are still good for active, first-time dog owners. The Portuguese Pointer is eager to please its owner. They enjoy playing games, particularly fetch or retrieval activities and daily exercise is important.

As with other short-haired dogs, the Portuguese Pointer requires little in the way of brushing. Nails should be kept short. If the dog is used for hunting, care must be taken to examine the feet for injury. Routine inspection for ticks and fleas is also important if the dog goes into wooded areas.

Because the Portuguese Pointer is a rare breed, it is not known to have any major health conditions. As may be expected based on the animal's size, dysplasia and heart problems can develop in later years.

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Portuguese Pointer - Dogs for Sale