Portuguese Pointer

The Portuguese Pointer originated in Portugal in the 1200s. This dog is so effective at hunting that game suffered a dramatic decline. An ownership ban, from which only royalty was exempt, was imposed in the late 16th century.

The Portuguese Pointer is also called the Perdigueiro. The name Perdiguero comes from the Portuguese word for partridge, which is the breed's main quarry.

This is a medium-sized pointer, which is still kept for working purposes in its homeland. The long haired form is now relatively scarce and is actually considered to be a serious fault in the breed.

The Portuguese Pointer should be between 20 and a half to 22 inches tall and weigh between 35-60 pounds.