The AKC has grouped all of the breeds that it registers into seven categories, or groups, roughly based on function and heritage. Breeds are grouped together because they share traits of form and function or a common heritage.
The Portuguese Pointer is considered a medium-sized dog. As a sporting dog, they have quite a bit of energy, especially when young. Their affectionate nature is so intense that the Portuguese standard describes it as sometimes “inappropriate and inconvenient.” This breed is very hardy and is capable of great endurance and devotion. Calm and very sociable, they can be somewhat haughty towards other dogs. Curious by nature, they work with persistence and vivacity and are always a keen hunter that stays in close contact with his handler.
Club Contact Details
Club: Portuguese Pointer Club of America
Name: Temple DaSilva
Email: GreenFallsHollow@comcast.net
The Portuguese Pointer should do well on a high-quality dog food, whether commercially manufactured or home-prepared with your veterinarian’s supervision and approval. Any diet should be appropriate to the dog’s age (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are prone to getting overweight, so watch your dog’s calorie consumption and weight level. Treats can be an important aid in training, but giving too many can cause obesity. Learn about which human foods are safe for dogs, and which are not. Check with your vet if you have any concerns about your dog’s weight or diet. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.
Portuguese Pointers require minimal grooming due to their short, tight coats, but they all seem to enjoy a nice brushing with a rubber curry-type brush anyway, which also helps remove dead hair. In general, their hard coat is good at repelling dirt, so frequent baths are not needed. Routine attention to nails, teeth, and ears is expected.
The Portuguese Pointer is a sporting dog and as such, enjoys running and hunting, even if it’s just pointing butterflies in the backyard or running on a hike. As they do still retain very strong hunting instincts, off-lead, safe exercise is key to a happy dog, mentally and physically. Young dogs have quite a bit of energy, especially males, but the breed does very well living calmly as a house dog as long as they are allowed daily outdoor exercise.
The Portuguese Pointer is an extremely kind and devoted sporting dog. They are very smart and quite easy to train. Due to their very affectionate nature, they can be considered a “soft” dog, often requiring a more gentle approach to training.
Portuguese Pointers are generally a very robust, healthy breed. There are no health issues specific to the breed, though care should be taken to ensure breeding dogs and their relatives are free of known health issues including seizures, hip dysplasia, and early-onset cancers or autoimmune diseases.
Recommended Health Tests From Parent Club
