10 Things You Didn’t Know About the Pudelpointer
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The Pudelpointer is a medium-sized breed of gun dog that originates from Germany. This breed is a cross between the German hunting poodle, which is also known as a Pudel, and the English Pointer. These breeds were cross-bred to gain the best attributes of each of the breeds. Although this breed has a relatively long history, it is one of the lesser-known breeds of dogs. Here are ten interesting facts about the Pudelpointer.
1. It Took 30 Years to Perfect the Breed
Baron von Zediltz was a German breeder who began to develop the Pudelpointer in 1881. It was a long process to get exactly what he wanted in terms of personality traits and appearance. In fact, it took him nearly 30 years using seven poodles and almost 100 pointers to achieve the perfect Pudelpointer. Although they are a mixed breed of dog, they classify as a purebred gun dog as they have been bred since the 19th century.
2. They Were Originally Bred as Hunting Dogs
Like most dog breeds, the Pudelpointer was bred with a purpose. This breed was originally intended as a hunting dog and was predominantly kept by hunters and farmers. It is now growing in popularity as a companion dog as they also have a lot of traits that make them great pets. These include loyalty, playfulness, and obedience.
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3. Pudelpointers Are Good Swimmers
A surprising fact that many people do not realize about Pudelpointers, even if they own one themselves, is that they are exceptionally good swimmers and are naturally drawn to water. If you take your Pudelpointer for a walk without a lead near water, they will run off for a quick swim.
4. Their Coat is Low-Maintenance
One of the advantages of Pudelpointers is that they have a low-maintenance coat and this is one of the reasons why people choose to keep one of these dogs. It is a thick double coat that is water-resistant, does not shed, and requires very little grooming. There are different types of Pudelpointer coat, from long and soft to short and wiry.
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5. They Are Available in Many Color Variations
Pudelpointers are available in many different colors although they are usually a solid color with no markings. Some of the colors of Pudelpointer available include black, liver, chestnut, and many shades in between.
6. They Need Lots of Exercise
Pudelpointers are not the best dog to keep if you live in an apartment or you do not have a garden. They need lots of exercise so should ideally live in a house with a garden where they can run around. Experts recommend that a Pudelpointer is taken for a long walk each day and that they can get extra exercise from playing games with their owners.
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7. They Point at Prey
As hunting dogs, a Pudelpointer will sniff out the scent of their prey. When they have found the scent, they will point their nose or paw in the direction of the prey to alert their owners before setting off to catch the prey. Even dogs that have not been trained to hunt will sometimes point with their nose or their paw when they smell a bird or small animal.
8. They Are in the AKC Foundation Stock Service
The American Kennel Club does not recognize the Pudelpointer as a breed for registration, but it is in the Foundation Stock Service. This is the optional recording service that allows breeders to record their dogs even though they are not eligible for American Kennel Club registration. Breeders of Pudelpointers have deliberately avoided recognition by the AKC as they believe that this registration service puts too much emphasis on form rather than the dog’s performance.
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9. They Compete in Canine Sporting Events
Pudelpointers are highly intelligent and very agile. These traits make them a good breed to take part in a variety of canine sporting events. They do not usually take part in dog shows, but competitive events involving retrieving tasks are perfect for this dog.
10. They Are Generally Healthy Dogs
The Pudelpointer is generally considered a healthy dog and they have an average lifespan of 15 years. However, like most dog breeds, they do have some health conditions to which they are more prone. In the case of the Pudelpointer, the most common health conditions that are linked to this breed are hip dysplasia and epilepsy.
