04/27/2026
We're going to make up for some lost time today with a 3-for-1 post. While their breed names might suggest that they are all the same EXCEPT for coat, that is not the case. German Shorthaired Pointers (GSP), German Wirehaired Pointers (GWP), and German Longhaired Pointers (GLP) are distinct breeds with different histories, temperaments, and physical builds, not just different coats. While they are related, versatile hunting dogs sharing similar ancestry, their breeding focuses on different hunting conditions.
First up the breed probably most-recognized, the German Shorthaired Pointer. The versatile, medium-sized German Shorthaired Pointer is an enthusiastic gundog of all trades who thrives on vigorous exercise, positive training, and a lot of love. GSP people call their aristocratic companions the "perfect pointer." Male German Shorthaired Pointers stand between 23 and 25 inches at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 55 to 70 pounds; females run smaller. The coat is solid liver (a reddish brown), or liver and white in distinctive patterns. The dark eyes shine with enthusiasm and friendliness. Built to work long days in the field or at the lake, GSPs are known for power, speed, agility, and endurance. "Noble" and "aristocratic" are words often used to describe the overall look. GSPs make happy, trainable pets who bond firmly to their family. They are always up for physical activities like running, swimming, organized dog sports; in fact, anything that will burn some of their boundless energy while spending outdoors time with a human buddy.
https://gspca.org/
Next up, the German Wirehaired Pointer. With his sporty weatherproof coat and can-do attitude, the noble German Wirehaired Pointer is a versatile, sturdy gundog who thrives on outdoor activity. Around the house, the GWP is an eager, affectionate, and amusing family companion. Standing as high as 26 inches at the shoulder, GWPs are a bit taller and heavier than their close relative, the German Shorthaired Pointer. GWPs are balanced, well muscled, resilient, agile, and generally built to beat the bushes all day long without tiring. The harsh wire coat protects against thorny underbrush and foul weather, and the shaggy beard and eyebrows complete an intelligent, worldly expression. "The need for running in the great outdoors is a must!" says one veteran owner. "This breed will not be happy to be on the couch all day." GWPs are bright and eager, but their independent, inquisitive nature might frustrate novice owners. A good fit for those looking for a loving companion who enjoys sports and togetherness.
https://gwpca.com/
Last up, the breed probably least known about, the German Longhaired Pointer. A good way to describe the German Longhaired Pointer is that, in appearance, it's Continental Europe's version of a Setter: a pointing dog with full tail and a long coat with dense guard hairs and a moderate undercoat. One noteworthy difference is the GLP's affection for swimming and, therefore, waterfowl hunting. Coat color reflects the mixture of markings similar to a German Shorthaired Pointer.
German Longhaired Pointers are a gun dog and as such, they are expected to search, point, track and retrieve game. They can excel in all types of hunting situations: waterfowl hunting, searching for upland game birds, or retrieving furred game in the woods or prairies, typically rabbit and squirrel in North America. They have a unique ability in being able to switch from a calm household pet to a fiery, passionate hunter. Having been bred for hunting for over a century, they are a superior, tried and tested hunting companion.
https://germanlonghairedpointer.com/