German Longhaired Pointer
The German Longhaired Pointer is described by the AKC as versatile, calm, family-oriented, originally from Germany.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 22-28 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 55-80 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Versatile / Calm / Family-Oriented [1] |
| AKC group | Foundation Stock Service [1] |
| Origin | Germany [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 211 of 202 [2] |
| AKC status | Foundation Stock Service (not yet fully recognized) [1] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
GLPs are, indeed, high energy with good breeding and have tremendous hunting drive and desire. They need a considerable amount of exercise and attention and need to be in the households of avid bird hunters. They are not suitable for occasional hunters. [1]
Grooming
The German Longhair requires regular upkeep, especially if he is hunting through various terrain and heavy cover. His long coat attracts burs afield, which may require trimming to remove, and the base of his ears are prone to develop knots. When hunted in heavy cover, his full tail can develop abrasions. [1]
Health issues to budget for
German Longhaired Pointers are a robust breed, with no known congenital problems to date. Working with a responsible breeder, those wishing to own a German Longhaired Pointer can gain the education they need to know about specific health concerns within the breed. Good breeders utilize genetic testing of their breeding stock to reduce the likelihood of disease in their puppies. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC lists the German Longhaired Pointer in its Foundation Stock Service, a record-keeping program for breeds that are not yet fully AKC-recognized. [1]
- It ranked No. 211 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- The AKC lists Germany as the breed's country of origin. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
- ✅ Multi-dog homes (AKC good-with-other-dogs 4/5)
Common questions
How long do German Longhaired Pointers live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a German Longhaired Pointer get?
AKC breed information lists height 22-28 inches and weight 55-80 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a German Longhaired Pointer?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the German Longhaired Pointer, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.