Deutsch Kurzhaar vs German Shorthaired Pointer: Are they the same?

Are you interested in learning more about Deutsch Kurzhaar vs. German Shorthaired Pointer? It’s worth mentioning that Deutsch Kurzhaar (DK) is a German hunting dog that originated in the 19th century. The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is similar to the North American version or cousin of the Deutsch Kurhzaar. Despite this, both have similar features and characteristics. Some people mistakenly believe that GSP and TK are different species, but they are not! If you want to learn more about this breed and its history, keep reading!

History of the DK German Shorthaired Pointer and GSP

The German Kurzhaar is a breed whose roots go back to 1870, marking the end of the Franco-Prussian War. At the end of the war, however, Germany was unified as a nation, and this time more attention was paid to race in an organized sense.

Near the middle of the 19th century, hunting in Germany and Europe, in general, ceased to be the exclusive business of rich landowners. As a result, there was a need for a truly versatile hunting dog – an all-purpose jack that could perform many tasks for the average hunter. The breed was favored over “special” dog breeds such as hounds, retrievers and pointers. To this end, German hunters have worked for many years to breed a versatile breed that can find the ground game and small game, take all game shots from both land and water, and work well as a guard dog for the injured large game forest, too.

These hunters combined different bloodlines of existing species to achieve their desired goals. There is no record or complete agreement as to which previous breeds may have been used to create the German Kurzhaar. It seems that early in the breed’s development, there were no breed guidelines to tell those trying to find a German Kurzhaar friend what to do. Thus, the consistency of those well used varies from manufacturer to manufacturer or region to region. Most agree that the breed is a hybrid of the Hanoverian Swiss Pointer, the Old Spanish Pointer, the Old German Pointer, and the English Pointer. Some sources even suggest that the fox was used to reduce body composition and increase speed. The result was the wonderful breed we know today as the German Kurzhaar (German Shorthair).

The GSP is considered the 11th most popular breed in the American Kennel Club registries. The breed is third among AKC sporting breeds after the Labrador and Golden Retriever, and the GSP is the most popular pointer breed.

Nature and characteristics of Deutsch Kurzhaar vs German Shorthaired Pointer

Now that you know that Deutsch Kurzhaar and GSP are the same breeds, let’s take a look at their characteristics. This way, you can decide whether this dog breed is right for you or not.

If you are planning to get a puppy, it is always advisable to know the nature of the dog’s breed. Also, if you are a new pet parent, it will help you to raise and train them properly.

The following are the nature and characteristics of Deutsch Kurzhaar vs German Shorthaired Pointer:

Appearance

Having large noses, floppy, broad ears, long muzzles and almond-shaped eyes, Deutsch Kurzhaars are well-balanced breeds. Standard pointers are a little bit larger than these. They have a short, dense, fine coat that can be liver-colored (brown) or smooth (even with a mixture of white and pigmented hair), mottled (spots of black hair on white areas) or mottled. The coat is waterproof, long on the tail and on its base. 

 Males are usually 23 to 25 inches (63.5 cm) tall, and females are 21 to 23 inches (58.42 cm). A male German Shorthair typically weighs between 55 and 70 pounds (31.75 kg), while females are slightly lighter and typically weigh between 45 and 60 pounds (27.22 kg).

Temperament

Deutsch Kurzhaar (The German Shorthaired Pointer) was bred as a hunting dog, but they are loving companions that do well in families. These dogs love to be outside with the family and get along great with children. They are excellent watchdogs and will bark if someone approaches the property. They only bark to alert their owners that someone is approaching – their bark is not aggressive. Because the breed is human-centered, separation anxiety is a common problem.

They are very dependent on their family and can become depressed if left alone. This anxiety often manifests itself through excessive barking, digging and chewing. Although these dogs get along well with people, they do not get along well with small dogs or cats as they may chase them. Males can be aggressive, so if you are planning to get another dog, it is better to bring only a female.

Training

Although the DK has the genetics for unparalleled hunting versatility, it needs the right training and environment to show it. DKs or GSPs mature faster than other pointers, but owners should resist the urge to train them too quickly or on a schedule. Focus first on the principles of obedience. Only then should you return to simple fieldwork. Do not move on to more advanced skills until this foundation is firmly established and proven.

Deutsch Kurzhaars are cute and friendly dogs, always up for an adventure. This regal breed is easy to train, eager to please and a wonderful family dog.

Grooming

The German Kurzhaar or GSP has a short coat that makes grooming easier. She throws up sometimes, which is normal as long as she doesn’t throw up more than usual. Bathe them once or twice a week. If it gets dirty, clean it with gloves. Due to its short coat, it does not require special care.

Use a stiff brush when brushing their coat to help remove dead and loose hair while keeping the coat looking nice and healthy. Excessive bathing should be avoided as it will break down their hair’s natural oils. These dogs should be bathed only when necessary. You can use chamomile wood to scrub the coat for a shiny coat.

Health

Usually, The German Kurzhaar or GSP lives 12-14 years. Although they are generally healthy and hardy dogs, breeding them risks developing various hereditary disorders. Some of them suffer from hereditary diseases such as genetic eye diseases, cancer, epilepsy, hip dysplasia and skin diseases. Their females that are not spayed are more likely to develop breast cancer, although breeding the female reduces that risk.

Diarrhea is a common health problem in the breed due to the depth of the chest. Avoid feeding these dogs before or after training to avoid bloat. GSP should be fed several small meals instead of one or two large meals. Owners should ensure that these dogs do not drink too much water while eating dry food.

Chocolate should not be given to this breed or any other dog to avoid other health risks. Regular examinations and vaccinations ensure the safety and longevity of dogs.

Conclusion

At the end of the article, your doubts between GSP and Deutsch Kurzhaar have been answered. You now know that both are the same species and have similar features and characteristics. GSP is the North American version, while DK is its German one.

This breed was created in the 19th century and bred for hunting purposes. Today, this dog breed is popular as a hunting dog and a very athletic dog. This breed became popular at exhibitions. GSP are obedient, affectionate, and friendly, making them great companion dogs. If you are thinking of this breed, go for it! But make sure you give them enough physical activity and exercise.