English Pointer Progression: Growth Chart, Milestones, and Training Tips

English pointers , otherwise known simply as pointers, are often thought of as the ultimate sporting dog. They combine power with grace and carry themselves with regal poise! They also make friendly and versatile pets – if you can cope with their high energy. You should do your research before taking on a pointer pup. Start by consulting other owners or preferably an experienced breeder. To give you an idea of what to expect, we have provided an English Pointer growth chart. You can use it to get a rough idea about English Pointer progression along with some milestones and training tips.

Breed Summary

The English Pointer is named after its ‘pointing’ posture but the exact origins of the breed are uncertain. There are written references to ‘pointing’ dogs dating back to the Middle Ages in Europe. We do know that British Army officers took Spanish pointers back home with them at the end of the War of Spanish Succession. Here, they were developed for shooting sports. They were first imported to the U.S. in the 1860s and the American Pointer Club was established in 1938 .

English Pointer Growth and Weight Chart by Age

It is perfectly normal for new puppy owners to be concerned about their pup’s weight especially if it is their first dog. Healthy pointer pups should gain weight quickly during their first six months. On the other hand, if their weight gain is too rapid, it can cause health problems in later life. It is very important that you take your pup for regular checks so that a vet can monitor their weight and general development. Here we have provided a very rough guide on what pointer pups should weigh at specific ages.

When Will My English Pointer Stop Growing?

It is normal for pointer pups to stop growing at about 12 to 18 months of age. However, they continue to gain weight and fill out after that. By the time they reach around two years, they should stop gaining weight. A combination of genetics, environment, and diet dictates exactly how big your pup will grow.

How Big Will My English Pointer Be When It’s Fully Grown?

The breed standard for pointers requires them to have a long and muscular neck, thin and sloping shoulders, and a strong and solid back. Male dogs should be 25-28 inches high and weigh 55 to 75 pounds. Females should be 23-26 inches high and weigh 44 to 65 pounds.

When Should My English Pointer Be Spayed or Neutered?

If you are not going to breed from your English pointer, you will need to decide whether to have them spayed or neutered and when to do this. Consult a vet who has experience with this breed to get the best advice for your individual pup. For larger dogs like the pointer, the current advice from the American Kennel Club is that it may be best to wait to carry out the procedure until the age of 12-18 months. However, they also state that they “promote the professional judgment of the veterinarian in developing an informed, case-by-case assessment of each individual patient, taking into account all the potential risks and benefits of spay/neuter.”

When Should My English Pointer Be House Broken?

All pups are different and whilst some English pointers get the hang of house training right away, others find it more challenging. If this happens to you, crate training is the best option. Typically, all pups are housebroken by six months of age and some a lot earlier.

When Should My English Pointer Stop Eating Puppy Food

English pointer pups should be fed on high-quality food designed specifically for large breed pups. This will ensure that they do not put on too much weight too quickly. Check the feeding guidance on the packet for the correct daily amounts. The packaging will also indicate when to transition to adult food. This should be done gradually over a period of 10 days to prevent stomach upsets. Also, check with your vet about when to transition to adult food. Even as adults, pointers should have two or three meals a day as opposed to one.

When Will My English Pointer Start Losing Teeth?

Losing baby teeth is a developmental milestone for pointer pups. It usually happens at about three months. They should have all of their adult teeth by six months. It would be best to get some chew toys at this time!

When Should I Start Training My English Pointer?

You can start training a pointer pup at just a few months old but be calm and consistent and keep training sessions short. It is also important to socialize your pup and introduce them to lots of sounds and environments in a positive way. Obedience training is part of that.

What Cues Should I Teach My English Pointer First?

Pointers are intelligent dogs that are generally easy to train. However, they are sporting dogs and require vigorous physical and mental exercise to keep them healthy and happy. Teaching the recall command is very important from a young age. If this is delayed, some pointers will never get the hang of it. Use positive techniques such as clicker training.

When Will My English Pointer Calm Down?

English pointers will never stop being high-energy vigorous dogs! They need to be exercised every single day to prevent that energy from spilling over into unwanted behavior such as barking and chewing. That said, according to the American Pointer Club, they show mature behavior within the home by 30 months. At around five years of age, most settle down and understand how to work in the field.

Common Health Issues Your English Pointer Might Experience

Pointers are a robust breed developed for hard work in the field and with a life expectancy of 12-14 years or even more. The American Pointer Club recommends health tests for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and autoimmune thyroiditis.

Other health issues that you should be mindful of are:

• Luxating patella – where knee caps pop out of place
• Hereditary Sensory Neuropathy – a rare disease that starts as skin problems
• Spinal Muscle Atrophy – causing weakness and difficulty eating
• Deafness
• Gastric Dilation-Volvulus – where, after a large meal, the stomach dilates and can block blood from reaching the heart.

Pictures of English Pointers as Puppies

Pictures of English Pointers at 6 Months

Pictures of Fully Grown English Pointers

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