St.Germain Pointing Dog

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The St.Germain Pointing Dog is a medium to large dog breed that is a versatile hunter used for hunting as a gun dog and pointer for hunting other small game. The dog was developed around 1830 from French pointers descended from the royal packs of King Louis XV and the English Pointer, brought to France by Mr. de Girardin, a master huntsman for King Charles X. The breed was named after Saint-Germain-en-Laye Forest keepers who bred the products of cross mentioned.

The St.Germain Pointing Dog is also known to be called the Braque Saint-Germain. Of all the French pointers, this English-French mix is the most elegant. The breed is now very rare because it is not very widespread although it was very common in the early twentieth century. Also, it competes with the English Pointer which is a similar dog in appearance and abilities. Initially, the name given to the breed was Compiegne Pointer. But then it was changed to Saint Germain Pointer when the dogs were taken to the forested areas of Saint Germain for further development.

These dogs can passionately hunt in any types of terrain. They are prepared and tireless working dogs. The dog is very affectionate, loyal and obedient to their humans and they are capable to show great affection once it gets into a family. They can get along well other dogs and other house pets. Occasionally, the dog can show stubbornness but they are generally gentle and friendly with children although they will be reserved when it comes to strangers.

These dogs are very intelligent making them easy to train with a firm and consistent training. Early socialization and obedience training would also be beneficial to avoid the dog from becoming unruly. Long walks are also recommended especially if the dog lives in a small space where there is not enough space for them to run around.

Color

The St. Germain Pointing Dog's coat color is Dull White with Orange (Fawn) markings. Some ticking is allowed but is not preferred. Their ears are Fawn allowing some White. Black in coat is not allowed for dogs when shown.

Coat

The dog's coat is short, think and glossy but it is not too fine. It requires very minimal grooming and maintenance. However, their coat does not provide sufficient insulation when wet. Thus, the dog should never be used for water retrieving or taken hunting during extremely cold weather.

Personality

The St.Germain Pointing Dog is an absolute hunting dog. The dog retrieves with a soft mouth and hunts for partridge, woodcock and pheasants with passion in any kind of terrain. They are dogs that are willing and tireless worker. These dogs are loyal, obedient and affectionate to their humans. It will show great affection once the dog gets attached to a human family. These dogs are very friendly and gentle to children but they will be reserved with strangers. They can also tolerate dogs and other house pets. Thus, the dog makes a wonderful family pet and a dependable watchdog. However, these dogs can be stubborn sometimes. The dog will shower his family with love and affection but they would expect that it will be returned. This dog will not appreciate to be ignored for quite a time.

Care

The St.Germain Pointing Dog breed requires very minimal maintenance since their coat is short. Brushing their coat occasionally and rubbing down with a damp cloth should be sufficient to maintain the hair condition at its best. The dog's coat however, does not provide sufficient insulation. These dogs can put up with the hot weather but not the extreme wet and cold weather conditions. Thus, the dog should never be taken hunting during extremely cold weather or for water retrieving. Bathing should only be done when necessary. Too much water and shampoo is not recommended as it will remove the natural oils of the dog's skin. The breed is known to be generally healthy and free from any genetic diseases. They are sometimes prone to hip dysplasia and ear infections because of their long drooping ears. Make sure to check it daily and after any activity done in the outdoors. You will also want to care for the dog's soft mouth which helps them to fetch the prey without damaging its body.

Training

The dog can be stubborn sometimes. Early socialization and obedience training is necessary to develop a well mannered dog. This breed is highly trainable with a firm and consistent training while not being harsh. Training tracking dogs to track should be done naturally: the object instead is to motivate it properly and teach it to maintain focus on a single track and ignore others that might seem more interesting to an untrained dog. The dog must be motivated to continue searching for a scent for a long period of time as this can actually be very fatiguing for a dog.

Activity

These dogs require long, daily walks if he lives in the city. This hunting dog will do best with activities wherein they can exercise the body, nose and its mind. They need to be taken for long walks emphasizing that the dog is a pack member by heeding them beside or behind the handler. A securely fenced yard would also benefit the dog to help with his exercise needs. Play will surely fulfill the dog's exercise needs; however, as any other breed, their primal instinct to walk will still need to be satisfied.