Are “Pocket Pointers” a thing? Is there really a Miniature German Shorthaired pointer?
Let’s explore where this nickname for the breed came to be and let you know where you can get a Miniature GSP.
But, I should warn you in advance, I have good news and I have bad news. So, with that said, let’s explore all things Miniature GSP’s.
I own a GSP, named Hank. I didn’t know much about German Shorthairs until after I got Hank from a Colorado breeder.
In hindsight, I should have seen the issue coming...
I went to visit Hank and pick him up as an 8-week old puppy. When I entered the house, the mama met me with a big GSP hug we have all come to love.
However, I’m 6ft tall and she and I were face to face! So, as you can guess I ended up with a giant GSP that is borderline a Great Dane lol.
Traditional German Shorthair Pointer Size Stats
Going through this experience of having a giant GSP, got my wife and I into the idea of a “pocket pointer” to add to our family along with Hank.
So, what are the traditional sizes of a German Shorthaired Pointer? Let’s go over each and give you an idea of what you can reasonably expect to get with the GSP pup you bring home.
According to the AKC, a German Shorthaired Pointer should expect to have the following stats regarding height and weight:
- AKC Breed Popularity: Ranks 9 of 197
- Height: 23-25 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female)
- Weight: 55-70 pounds (male), 45-60 pounds (female)
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
Why Miniature German Shorthaired Pointers Are Sought After
Ever see a German Shorthaired Pointer and think “Man, I’d love to have one but they are so big”. Maybe the idea of a Miniature German Shorthaired Pointer sounds perfect!
All the perks of having a GSP without having a large breed dog.
After all, it’s understandable, GSP’s offer so many perks, they are good with families and kids, affectionate, active, full of personality and really make a true “best friend” type of dog breed.
But, many people don’t want a large breed dog for a variety of reasons including wear and tear on furniture, yard size, etc.
Beyond the most common reasons to want a Miniature GSP, it’s worth noting that a smaller German Shorthaired Pointer is actually a great hunter as well with improved versatility above a traditional sized GSP.
A smaller GSP can navigate through a thicker brush as its body takes up less mass and size to fit in narrow spaces.
A smaller hunting bird dog, like a Brittany for example, are excellent hunters due to their small, compact size and fast agility.
Miniature German Shorthaired Pointers Don’t Exist
Remember when I said we have some bad news for you? Well, here it is, “Pocket Pointers” and “Miniature German Shorthaired Pointers” just don’t exist, technically speaking.
There is no dog breed recognized by the American Kennel Club as a Miniature GSP, only the traditional German Shorthaired Pointer is an actual recognized dog breed by the AKC.
Now, with that said, there are some ways you can get your hands on a much smaller GSP, Check out the section below to find out how you locate a Miniature GSP.
How To Get a Miniature German Shorthaired Pointer
Ok, so we established that there is no actual “Mini GSP” breed, but we do know that Pocket Pointers exist, so where do we find a Miniature German Shorthaired Pointer? Well, there are a couple ways to get this done.
Visit GSP Breeders
Like I said earlier, when I went to see the parents of my GSP, Hank, I quickly learned he had TALL parents, that should have given me a clue that I would have a TALL GSP.
So, the first step and easiest would be to contact the local area or regional GSP breeders in your state. Chances are you can learn all you need by just asking about the size of the parents.
Most will be upfront about the potential for their litter to have larger or smaller GSP’s. Additionally, stopping by and just putting your eyes on mom and dad will tell how your GSP will turn out.
Also, once you start conversing with the breeders, it is very likely that if they don’t have the smaller GSP you are looking for, they probably know someone in the business that is breeding smaller GSP’s and can point you in that direction.
If you dont know where to start or want to check out rescues, I found EVERY GSP rescue in the country and put them all together in this National GSP Directory.
Facebook Groups, Reddit, and Forums
Networking with other people has been the key to success in almost all professions since the beginning of time. Fortunately for us, we can now network with the entire country (or world) for most any topic!
Join a few German Shorthaired Facebook groups, check out the Reddit forum under the r/dogs subreddit and ask around. Someone will know about who is breeding the Pocket Pointers and where to find them.
Disadvantages of a Miniature German Shorthair
If you do decide to get a pocket pointer, understand that since they are not a breed recognized by the AKC, you likely won’t be able to enter your pup into any official events like gundog trials, dog shows, etc.
These events usually have breed classifications needed and having a “Miniature GSP” will only mean you must enter the dog against taller traditional German Shorthairs.
Fact is, most people wont ever enter into those events and they just want all the perks of a GSP without all the size and that’s completely understandable.
So don’t get too caught up in AKC registrations and events.
GSP Items We Love
- Leash: Carhartt
- Memory Foam Bed: Furhaven
- Remote Trainer: SportDOG Brand 425X
- Treat Toy: WEST PAW Zogoflex Qwizl
- Hat: GSP Hat
- Harness: Kurgo Baxter Backpack for Dogs
- Seat Cover: URPOWER
More info:
Carhartt Tradesman Leash: Every dog owner needs a good leash, and all leashes are NOT treated the same.
This Carhartt dog leash is very well made, and is durable enough to deal with a GSP’s strength (yes, pulling too). I’ve had cheap leashes in the past, they aren’t worth it, grab this instead.
Furhaven orthopedic and Memory Foam Bed: If you have a GSP, you know, they LOVE to lay around, cuddle and sleep (when they aren’t running circles around the living room and yard.
This dog bed is so great because GSP’s love to rest their head on “pillows” just like humans and this dog bed has a built-in “pillow” perimeter that my dog uses every day as a pillow. Hank loves this bed.
SportDOG Brand 425X Remote Trainer: You know what sucks more than having your GSP run around the neighborhood or after a rabbit at your local park? Not having the ability to stop your GSP and recall them in an instant.
With the Sport Dog 425x, you have complete control for up to 500 yards (yes, 5 football fields end-to-end). Its battery lasts a LONG time, it’s sleek, lightweight and your pup won’t ever be out of your control with it on.
WEST PAW Zogoflex Qwizl Dog Puzzle Treat Toy: Our GSP’s love to play, even when we may not have the energy to entertain them ourselves. Maybe it’s work, maybe it’s the end of a long day, who knows.
But, all you need to do is give this Kong to your GSP and they will entertain themselves for quite a while, while you finally get some rest. Hank has had this for years now and it’s still kickin!
GSP German Shorthaired Pointer Hat: Represent your GSP pride with this great trucker, snapback style German Shorthaired Pointer ball cap. It’s got a modern look but also shows others your favorite dog breed.
The best part? The glances and smiles from those who also have a GSP, it’s always a conversation starter!
Kurgo Baxter Backpack for Dogs, Saddlebag Back Pack Harness: I don’t know about you, but my GSP loves to adventure with us out here in Colorado. That means hiking, mountain biking, and camping all year.
Our GSP sees this saddle bag break out and he can’t stop wiggling his butt knowing where are headed outdoors.
Toss in the car keys, a snack bar and some kibble, you are on your way to outdoor fun with your pup!
URPOWER Dog Seat Cover Car Seat Cover: Ok, this is last but it is the MOST beneficial item you will get. Don’t, believe me, Take a road trip with your GSP in the back seat. Once you arrive, you will have GSP shedding hair all over your back sweat.
This slick hammock-style seat cover creates a waterproof barrier between your lovely truck’s interior and your GSP’s shedding hair.
Hunting and having a wet GSP? No Problem! Did your GSP decide to chase a goose into the lake? No big deal! This seat cover is a lifesaver.
Conclusion
There you have it! Hopefully this clarified for you the fact that there is no “official” Miniature German Shorthaired Pointer.
BUT, if you’re with your pup not being recognized by the AKC or other events for your specific breed, you can get your hands on a smaller pocket pointer and go live your best life with your Miniature GSP!
