The Portuguese Pointer, or Chien d'arrêt portugais, is an ancient breed originating from the Iberian Peninsula. Valued since the 12th century, it has long been a falconry dog in royal courts. This hunting dog is now recognized for its robustness and efficiency in work, particularly in tracking and pointing game.
✨ Breed Characteristics
Origin: Portugal
Type: Hunting dog
Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
Weight:
- Male: 21-27 kg
- Female: 16-22 kg
Height: 50-56 cm
Life expectancy: 12-14 years
Exercise needs: 2 to 3 hours per day
Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Not suitable for apartment living, prefers outdoor spaces)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐☆☆☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Other animals: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Rather reserved towards other animals)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (Would prefer a large outdoor space)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Requires regular but not excessive maintenance)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Moderate)
- Frequency of care:
- Brushing: Weekly to remove dead hair
- Ear, teeth, claw hygiene: To be monitored regularly
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 800-1200 €
- Average annual cost (veterinarian, accessories, food): 450-650 €
🏡 Important note
The Portuguese Pointer is a dog that needs large spaces to expend energy. It is ideal for families living in the countryside or having a large fenced garden. Its active nature and need for exercise make it an excellent hunting dog, but it can also be a loyal companion if its need for physical activity is well managed.
