Old Danish Pointer: The Rare and Talented Hunting Dog Breed

The Old Danish Pointer is a rare purebred gun dog that excels in the field yet makes a gentle, devoted companion. With a history dating back to the 1700s, this hardy breed has a lot to offer active owners looking for an exceptional hunting partner.

Although still uncommon outside of Denmark, this breed‘s prowess and versatility is gaining more appreciation. The American Kennel Club added the Old Danish Pointer to its Foundation Stock Service in 2022, the first step toward full recognition.

Whether you‘re interested in hunting, fieldwork or an active family pet, learn all about the lively Old Danish Pointer.

Breed Overview

Characteristics

[Characteristics table]

The sturdy, muscular Old Danish Pointer was developed to be an all-around capable gun dog and tireless worker in the field. Key characteristics include:

• Strong, proportional frame with deep chest and straight, powerful legs
• Medium size, averaging 20-24 inches tall and 55-70 pounds
• Short, dense coat is white with brown spots and speckles
• Long, broad head with moderate stop and lengthy muzzle
• Hanging ears and keen, friendly oval eyes
• Tapered tail customarily docked to 10-15 inches

The Old Danish Pointer‘s efficient trotting gait and muscular hindquarters provide the speed, agility and endurance needed for a full day of hunting. But this sporty physique also makes for an attractive, athletic companion dog.

Breed Origins

Records of the Old Danish Pointer go back to at least 1710 in Denmark. The breed likely descended from other European pointing dogs crossed with local farm and hound dogs. Some even theorize that Romani dogs contributed to the breed‘s development.

Prized for their keen sense of smell, search abilities and pointing stance, Old Danish Pointers were used to locate and point at upland game birds as well as rabbits and hares.

Breed numbers sharply declined by World War II but thankfully, dedicated Danish breeders and the Danish Kennel Club worked to save the national breed from extinction. The 1980s TV series "A Dog‘s Life" and its Old Danish Pointer star also helped restore the breed‘s popularity.

Today, while still rare, the Old Danish Pointer remains cherished in its native country for both hunting and companionship. It‘s also gaining more international interest among sportsmen and dog enthusiasts preserving this historic, capable breed.

Temperament

Old Danish Pointers combine the alert, focused drive of a hunting dog with the gentle, friendly nature of a companion dog. Hallmarks of the breed‘s personality include:

• Intelligent, bold and eager to please
• Deeply devoted and affectionate with family
• Lively, playful and outgoing
• Gentle and patient with children
• Social and accepting of other dogs
• May have a high prey drive toward small animals
• Sensitive and responsive to an encouraging approach

Julie Jensen, President of the Danish Pointing Dog Club of North America, describes them as "kind, cooperative dogs that aim to please." She says while they can be energetic, "they have an ‘off button‘ and settle well in the home."

With proper introductions and socialization, Old Danish Pointers usually get along great with kids, other dogs and family pets. But these former bird dogs may view pet birds and cats as prey.

Bred to work closely with hunters, Old Danish Pointers crave companionship and bond deeply with their humans. They need an active household that provides plenty of interaction and includes them in activities. If left alone too long, they may become anxious or destructive.

Training and Exercise

The athletic, sharp-minded Old Danish Pointer requires dedicated training and daily exercise to be fulfilled. While naturally responsive, they benefit from patient, consistent training using positive reinforcement. Heavy-handed methods may crush their sensitive nature and lead to stubbornness.

Hunting trainer Michael Holbek advises keeping sessions fun and interesting for this intelligent breed. He recommends short, varied lessons that engage their mind and natural instincts.

As high-energy working dogs, Old Danish Pointers need at least an hour of daily exercise. They thrive with active families who enjoy the outdoors through hiking, running, swimming and other sports. Participating in hunting tests, field trials, obedience, tracking and other canine events provides great mental stimulation and bonding time too.

Access to a securely fenced yard is ideal for off-leash romping and play sessions in between walks, jogs and training. Puzzle toys, treat dispensers and interactive games help prevent boredom when relaxing indoors.

Grooming and Care

The Old Danish Pointer‘s practical coat is very low-maintenance. Weekly brushing and occasional baths keep the short hair clean and glossy. They shed moderately year-round but regular brushing minimizes loose hair around the house.

Other grooming needs include regular nail trims, ear cleanings and dental care. With their hanging ears, it‘s important to check weekly for wax build-up, dirt and irritation to prevent infections.

Veterinarians recommend professional dental cleanings and daily tooth brushing, as the breed can be prone to periodontal disease. Introduce tooth brushing early on so it‘s an accepted part of the routine.

Preventive care should include staying current on vaccinations, heartworm testing and flea/tick control. The Old Danish Pointer‘s deep chest makes them more susceptible to bloat, a potentially life-threatening condition. Feeding smaller meals and avoiding exercise around mealtimes can help reduce the risk.

Health and Lifespan

The hardy Old Danish Pointer is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years. But like all dogs, they are prone to certain hereditary conditions. Responsible breeders screen for hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia and eye disorders to produce the healthiest pups possible.

Other health issues reported in the breed include:

• Patellar luxation
• Hypothyroidism
• Epilepsy
• Allergies

Keeping your Old Danish Pointer at a lean, fit weight and providing veterinarian-recommended preventive care supports a long, healthy life. As an active breed, they may sustain field injuries, so check them over after hunting or sporting activities.

Diet and Nutrition

Feed your Old Danish Pointer a high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food. Kibble formulated for active or sporting breeds provides the protein and fat they need to fuel their energy. The amount varies based on age, activity and metabolism but averages 2-3 cups per day divided into 2 meals.

Avoid free-feeding to prevent overeating and obesity. Use treats judiciously in training but don‘t exceed 10% of their daily caloric intake. Keep fresh water accessible at all times, especially during and after exercise.

As deep-chested dogs, Old Danish Pointers have a higher risk of bloat and gastric torsion. Feeding multiple meals a day, using a slow-feeder bowl and limiting activity around mealtimes can minimize the chances of this serious condition developing.

Your veterinarian is the best resource for tailoring a diet plan to your dog‘s individual needs. They can advise on amount, type of food and supplements based on your Old Danish Pointer‘s age, health and lifestyle.

Choosing an Old Danish Pointer

If you‘re interested in bringing home an Old Danish Pointer, it‘s crucial to find an ethical breeder committed to the health and welfare of the breed. Responsible breeders extensively health test their dogs to minimize the risk of inherited diseases. They also temperament test to ensure mentally sound, stable puppies.

Expect a good breeder to ask you lots of questions about your lifestyle, home and plans for the dog. They should willingly share health clearances and pedigree information. Be very cautious of anyone offering to ship a puppy sight unseen or at a bargain price – these are red flags for puppy mills.

The Danish Pointing Dog Club of North America and Danish Kennel Club are great resources for locating reputable breeders in Denmark and the US. The Fédération Cynologique Internationale also recognizes the breed.

Adult rescue dogs sometimes become available when owners can no longer care for them. Contacting breed clubs can connect you with any Old Danish Pointers in need of re-homing.

Is the Old Danish Pointer right for you?

Active singles, couples and families looking for a versatile hunting companion or sporty pet may find their perfect match in the Old Danish Pointer. Their intelligence, work ethic and desire to please make them very trainable partners in the field and beyond.

At home, the affectionate Old Danish Pointer is a playful, patient family dog that appreciates being included in his "pack‘s" adventures. But apartment dwellers and those who work long hours away should probably consider a less active, more independent breed.

If you can provide the exercise, training and companionship the lively Old Danish Pointer craves, you‘ll be rewarded with a devoted, capable dog of many talents. From the field to the family room, there‘s a lot to love about this hard-working yet good-natured breed.