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Characteristics, History, and Health
Portuguese Pointer
The Portuguese Pointer, also known as Perdigueiro Português, is a breed of dog that hails from Portugal. It is a gun dog and is used for hunting. As the name suggests, it points out game for hunters, and is esteemed for its sharp scent detection and its agility. The Portuguese Pointer's roots stretch back hundreds of years. This breed was developed in the Iberian Peninsula and it's thought to be a direct descendant of the old Spanish and Italian pointing dogs from the 12th century, bred by royal falconers for hunting small game. The breed significantly influenced the development of the English Pointer, when some dogs were gifted to British wine merchants in the 18th century, as well as the Labrador Retriever.
Main Info
- Origin
- Iberian Peninsula
- Alternate Names
- Perdiguero Portugués
- Life Expectancy
- 14 years
- Average Male Height
- 20.5-22 inches
- Average Female Height
- 20.5-22 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 35-59 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 35-59 pounds
- Coat Length
- Short
- Coat Type
- Smooth
- Coat Colors
- Yellow, Light Yellow, Red Yellow
- Coat Pattern
- White Markings
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Portuguese Pointers are generally healthy and robust, though like many breeds can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia. It is also important to test them for autoimmune thyroiditis, hyperuricosoria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration. Genetic screening is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.
Personality and Behavior
Portuguese Pointers are generally healthy and robust, though like many breeds can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia. It is also important to test them for autoimmune thyroiditis, hyperuricosoria, degenerative myelopathy, and progressive rod-cone degeneration. Genetic screening is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs.
Fun Facts
Portuguese Pointers are considered one of the oldest gun dogs, with their lineage dating back to the 12th century.
They have a unique way of pointing out their game - they use their entire body, not just their muzzle.
Even though they're an old breed, Portuguese Pointers were only recognized by the American Kennel Club in 2015.
According to the UKC, the Portuguese name for this breed is “Perdigueiro Português,” derived from “perdigon,” the Portuguese word for “partridge.”
References
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/portuguese-pointer/ https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/PORTUGUESE-POINTING-DOG-187.html
https://www.ukcdogs.com/portuguese-pointer
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