Portuguese Pointer

One of the Iberian Peninsula’s oldest pointing breeds, the Portuguese Pointer (Perdigueiro Português) developed alongside traditional bird hunting, especially partridge. Written references date back several centuries; by the 18th–19th centuries the breed was prized for its partnership in the field—searching methodically, freezing on scent, and retrieving fallen birds. Modern fanciers restored the breed in the 20th century, and today it’s recognized in Europe (FCI) and maintained by dedicated hunters and enthusiasts worldwide, though it remains uncommon in North America.

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A medium, squarely built pointing dog with a noble head and dense, close coat.

• Weight: 44–60 lb (male), 35–55 lb (female)
• Height: 22–24 in (male), 20.5–23 in (female)
• Coat Type: Short, dense, and weather-resistant; minimal feathering
• Coat Colors: Shades of yellow/fawn (light to dark), chestnut; often with white markings or ticking
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Broad, square muzzle; pronounced stop; low-set triangular ears; muscular neck and forechest; medium tail carried level (historically docked in some regions)

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Low-maintenance coat, but routine care keeps skin and ears healthy.

• Brushing: Weekly with a rubber curry or soft brush to remove dander and maintain shine
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or after muddy hunts/swims
• Ear Care: Clean and dry weekly (prone to moisture after field work and swimming)
• Nails/Teeth: Trim nails every 3–4 weeks; brush teeth 2–3×/week
• Shedding: Low to moderate year-round; seasonal uptick in spring/fall

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A high-drive working athlete that needs daily outlets.

• Daily Exercise: 60–90 minutes (mix of brisk walks, off-leash runs in secure areas, field drills)
• Ideal Activities: Field pointing work, tracking, nose work, hiking, canicross, fetch/retrieves, obedience
• Suitability: Best for active homes; apartment life only with robust exercise and enrichment

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Eager, people-focused, and responsive—make it positive and purposeful.

• Approach: Reward-based training; clear criteria; short, varied sessions
• Key Skills: Reliable recall around birds/wildlife, steadiness to flush/shot, delivery to hand, settle on mat (off-switch at home)
• Socialization: Early exposure to people, dogs, travel, gunfire (professionally introduced)
• Mental Work: Scent games, pattern drills, problem-solving with bumpers/wing hides

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Fuel the worker while keeping a lean, field-ready physique.

• Food Type: High-quality performance kibble or balanced fresh diet for active medium breeds
• Daily Quantity: ~2–3 cups/day split into two meals (adjust to workload and season)
• Diet Advice: Prioritize animal protein; add omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/joints; avoid heavy exercise 60–90 minutes before/after meals to reduce bloat risk

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Rare in Canada; expect waitlists and consider international contacts.

• Breeders: Seek preservation breeders who hunt or test dogs and provide health results (hips/eyes) and lifetime support
• Adoption: Look to sporting-dog rescues; inquire with pointing-dog clubs for rehoming networks
• Canadian Resources: Canadian Kennel Club directory (limited listings), provincial hunting/retriever/pointing clubs, European breed club referrals

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Generally robust; routine screening is still important.

• Common Issues: Hip dysplasia, occasional elbow dysplasia, ear infections (moisture), eye conditions (check with ophthalmologist)
• Life Expectancy: 12–14 years
• Recommended Testing: Hips (and elbows where available); ophthalmologist (CAER) exams; routine ear/skin checks for active field dogs

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Are Portuguese Pointers good family dogs?
Yes—affectionate and gentle with family when well exercised and trained.

Do Portuguese Pointers shed?
Light to moderate; a weekly brush keeps hair and dander down.

How much exercise does a Portuguese Pointer need?
Plan for 60–90 minutes daily plus brain work (scent games/field drills).

Are Portuguese Pointers hypoallergenic?
No.

Portuguese Pointer vs. German Shorthaired Pointer—what’s different?
The Portuguese Pointer is typically more compact with a denser, closer coat and a softer, highly partner-oriented field style; individual lines vary.

Do they get along with other pets?
Generally yes with early socialization, but supervise around small animals due to prey drive.

Are they easy to train?
Yes—very biddable with positive methods and clear structure.

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