15 Stunning Pointing Dogs You’ll Want to See in Action

Whether you’re a seasoned upland hunter, a fan of versatile working breeds, or just someone who appreciates a good “bird dog” stance, pointing dogs hold a special place in the canine world.

With their keen noses, elegant athleticism, and that classic freeze-frame point that signals “game ahead,” these breeds have been prized for centuries across continents.

But not all pointing dogs are the same—far from it. From the windswept fields of England to the rugged forests of Central Europe, pointing breeds have been developed and refined to meet local hunting traditions, terrains, and prey.

Some are fast and fiery, built for open ground and swift birds. Others are slower, more methodical, designed to work thick underbrush or track game across water and snow.

Yet they all share a common gift: the innate ability to locate and indicate prey without chasing it. What’s more, pointing dogs tend to be incredibly loyal and intelligent, making them excellent companions off the field too.

Many thrive in active households and form strong bonds with their people, as long as their boundless energy and working instincts are properly channeled.

In this list, we’re highlighting 15 pointing dog breeds from around the world—some well-known, others you may have never heard of, but all impressive in their own right.

Each brings its own story, style, and skill set to the table.

Whether you’re looking to add a pointing breed to your life or simply want to admire these remarkable dogs from afar, this list will give you a global tour of one of the most fascinating groups in the dog world.

1. German Shorthaired Pointer (Germany)

The German Shorthaired Pointer is the ultimate multitasker in the world of sporting dogs. Agile, powerful, and intelligent, this breed excels in pointing, retrieving, and tracking.

Their keen nose and high stamina make them ideal for all types of terrain, whether it’s water, fields, or dense cover.

Not only are they masters in the field, but GSPs also shine as family companions. They’re friendly, affectionate, and great with kids—though their energy means they thrive best with active families.

With a short, easy-care coat and a love for exercise, this German native continues to top popularity charts among hunters and dog lovers alike.

2. English Pointer (England)

Sleek, fast, and poised like a statue mid-hunt, the English Pointer embodies elegance and purpose.

With origins tracing back to 17th-century England, this breed was developed to point gamebirds with precise, dramatic style. They’re known for their endurance and explosive speed in open country.

English Pointers are laser-focused in the field but sweetly mellow at home. They form strong bonds with their humans, though they need plenty of physical and mental exercise to stay happy.

Their short coat makes grooming a breeze, and their athletic frame is as beautiful in motion as it is standing still—frozen in the iconic point.

3. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (France/Netherlands)

Built for harsh terrain and tough weather, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is the rugged all-terrain vehicle of pointing breeds.

Bred in the late 19th century, this dog was designed for versatility—combining pointing, retrieving, and tracking into one wiry, durable package.

Their distinctive harsh coat and expressive eyebrows give them a scruffy charm. Beyond looks, they’re hardworking, loyal, and eager to please. Griffs are particularly attached to their families and tend to be great with children.

While their energy level is high, they’re also extremely trainable and willing, making them a favorite among hunters and outdoorsy dog owners.

4. Vizsla (Hungary)

Nicknamed the “Velcro dog” for their intense devotion to their people, Vizslas are elegant yet hardworking pointers. Originally bred by Hungarian nobles for falconry and upland hunting, they combine a graceful appearance with raw athletic power.

Their sleek golden-rust coat is as striking as their performance in the field. Vizslas are fast, agile, and incredibly eager to please.

They thrive in active households and love having a job to do—whether that’s pointing birds or joining you for a long trail run. Social and affectionate, they don’t like being left alone for long.

5. Weimaraner (Germany)

The Weimaraner is known for its stunning silver-gray coat and haunting amber or blue-gray eyes—but this breed is far more than just looks.

Originally bred for large game like boar and deer, they transitioned into bird pointing with ease thanks to their intelligence and drive.

Weimaraners are fearless, energetic, and require a lot of physical and mental stimulation.

Their pointing instinct is strong, and their stamina seemingly endless. While they can be headstrong, they bond deeply with their families and do best with firm, consistent training. This breed thrives with confident owners who enjoy outdoor adventure.

6. Brittany (France)

Compact, bouncy, and bursting with enthusiasm, the Brittany is a favorite among upland hunters. Despite often being referred to as a “Brittany Spaniel,” it’s technically a pointing breed—one of the few with true dual talents in pointing and flushing.

With a soft expression and a constantly wagging tail, Brittanys are affectionate and energetic. They crave human companionship and are great with kids. Their moderate size and cheerful nature make them well-suited for both field and family life.

Agile and fast, they’re perfect for hunters who need a quick, close-working partner in the field.

7. Spinone Italiano (Italy)

With its bearded face and soulful eyes, the Spinone Italiano might look more like a philosopher than a hunting dog—but don’t let the appearance fool you.

This ancient Italian breed is a steady, reliable pointer and retriever, especially in rugged or wet terrain.

Unlike speedier breeds, the Spinone works methodically and thoroughly, making it ideal for dense cover and slower-paced hunts. Its wiry coat protects it from the elements, while its calm demeanor makes it an excellent family companion.

Though not the flashiest in the field, its endurance, nose, and heart make it a favorite of hunters who appreciate consistency.

8. Pudelpointer (Germany)

The Pudelpointer is a hidden gem in the pointing world—a purposeful cross between the Poodle and the English Pointer.

It combines the intelligence and water-retrieving ability of the Poodle with the field drive and pointing instinct of the Pointer.

Developed in the late 1800s, the breed is versatile, trainable, and less prone to shedding than many other pointers. Pudelpointers are known for their biddable nature, eagerness to hunt, and adaptability to family life.

While not as flashy or widespread as other breeds, they’re a favorite of those who value a dependable and multifaceted gun dog.

9. Large Münsterländer (Germany)

Bred for versatility, the Large Münsterländer can track, retrieve, and point with equal precision. Descended from the German Longhaired Pointer, this breed is known for its black-and-white coat, feathered tail, and noble bearing.

In the field, they’re bold and energetic, capable of working in thick brush or over water. At home, they’re affectionate and social, bonding closely with their people.

This breed does best in active households that can meet its high energy needs. With proper training and plenty of stimulation, the Large Münsterländer makes both an exceptional hunting partner and a loyal family dog.

10. Slovakian Rough Haired Pointer (Slovakia)

Also known as the Slovenský Hrubosrstý Stavac, this breed is one of the newer additions to the pointing dog world.

Developed after World War II, it was bred to be a rugged, multipurpose hunting companion suited to the mountains and forests of Slovakia.

Its distinctive gray coat and rough texture give it a weather-resistant edge, while its calm, focused demeanor makes it a reliable pointer in the field. Slovakian Rough Haired Pointers are steady and intelligent, thriving with firm, positive training.

They bond deeply with their families and are well-suited to hunters looking for a loyal, all-around performer.

11. Cesky Fousek (Czech Republic)

The Cesky Fousek is one of the Czech Republic’s national treasures when it comes to gun dogs. Known for its shaggy facial hair and dense, wiry coat, this breed is built for hard work in difficult terrain. It points with intensity and retrieves with commitment.

In addition to its hunting prowess, the Cesky Fousek is intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please.

It’s a fantastic family dog for active households and typically does well with other dogs. While not as widely known outside Europe, it’s a favorite among those who value versatility and grit in the field.

12. Ariege Pointer (France)

Hailing from the mountainous Ariege region in southern France, the Ariege Pointer—also known as the Braque de l’Ariège—is a powerful and elegant hunter.

Recognizable by its white coat marked with orange or liver, it has a lean, athletic build designed for speed and endurance.

This breed is highly driven in the field, with a strong pointing instinct and impressive scenting ability.

While it’s less common than other French pointers, it’s gaining fans for its intensity and elegance. With the right training and exercise, the Ariege Pointer is a devoted hunting partner and an affectionate pet.

13. Portuguese Pointer (Portugal)

The Portuguese Pointer, or Perdigueiro Português, is a rustic and loyal gundog with centuries of hunting tradition behind it.

Bred for partridge hunting in the Iberian countryside, this medium-sized breed is known for its square build, expressive face, and distinctive short, dense coat.

Though not as flashy as some modern pointers, it’s deeply intuitive in the field—working close to the hunter and locking into a steady point with natural ease.

Portuguese Pointers are affectionate, loyal, and highly attuned to their owner’s cues. Their calm demeanor and eager-to-please attitude make them great companions for those who value quiet confidence over flair.

14. Braque d’Auvergne (France)

The Braque d’Auvergne is a striking black-and-white pointer with roots in the volcanic Auvergne region of central France. Sleek and athletic, it boasts a strong nose and a smooth, sweeping gait that makes covering ground seem effortless.

In the field, it’s a steady and focused worker, bred to point game precisely and hold patiently. At home, the Braque d’Auvergne is gentle, loyal, and affectionate—often forming tight bonds with family members.

It’s a lesser-known gem among pointing breeds, perfect for hunters who want a dependable dog with a calm, even temperament.

15. Burgos Pointer (Spain)

The Burgos Pointer, or Perdiguero de Burgos, is a traditional Spanish hunting dog that’s been tracking gamebirds across the Iberian Peninsula for centuries.

Sturdy and composed, it’s known for its droopy ears, solemn eyes, and dual-toned ticking on its short coat.

Unlike more high-strung pointers, this breed is calm and deliberate. It works at a slower pace but with thoroughness and focus, making it perfect for patient hunts in dense or dry terrain.

Burgos Pointers are gentle, obedient, and easy to train—ideal for first-time owners who want a devoted partner with an old-world charm.