The first Pointers of which there is any dependable record appeared in England about 1650, some years before the era of wing-shooting with guns. Coursing with Greyhounds was a favorite sport of those times and the earliest accounts of Pointers reveal that they were taken afield to locate and point hares. When the hare had been found, the Greyhounds were brought up and unleashed, and the game was kicked from cover. In the early 18th century, at least by 1711, wing-shooting had come into vogue, and from that day on, the "shorthair" has been considered by the majority of sportsmen equal if not better than any of the gun dogs.

For the Pointer's lineage, there is no question that the Foxhound, Greyhound and Bloodhound all had a share in the making of this breed. Individuals of the three breeds were probably crossed with the inevitable "setting spaniel" which played a very prominent part in the creation of all our modern bird dogs.

The Pointer, also known as the English Pointer, is bred primarily for sport afield, he should unmistakably look and act the part. The ideal dog gives the immediate impression of compact power and agile grace. Their head is noble, and proudly carried. They have great stamina, courage, and the desire to go.

The pointing urge is so strong in this breed that puppies that are only a few months old may start pointing without having any instruction or training. Exercise is of great importance for these tireless energetic animals. They are more than a match for even the most active family and they should not be taken on as family pets unless they can be guaranteed plenty of vigorous exercise. If under- exercised, this breed can become restless and even destructive. These dogs are not recommended for apartment life. They are moderately active indoors and do best with acreage.

Males should be between 25-28 inches tall, and 55-75 pounds. Females 23-26 inches, and 45-65 pounds. They have a short, dense, smooth coat. The colors can be Liver, lemon, black, orange; either in combination with white or solid colored. Grooming is very simple for this breed. Bathing as needed as well as regular nail trim and ear cleaning are all that are required.

Health concerns in the breed include hip dysplasia, dwarfism, eye problems, thyroid conditions and seizures.