The German Shorthaired Pointer is a beloved hunting dog that families adore due to its good nature and undying affection. If you’re considering getting a German Shorthaired Pointer, you may be curious as to the associated costs. We’ll break down how much you can expect to spend on this dog breed to get an idea of how much you should budget for expenses.
About the German Shorthaired Pointer
Breed
The German Shorthaired Pointer is a hunting dog that people have loved for its playfulness, loyalty, and trainability. All in all, a German Shorthaired Pointer makes a great pet. They are usually between 45 to 65 lbs., making them fairly large dogs. They have short, smooth hair and shed an average amount.
Temperament
German Shorthaired Pointers have great temperaments. They get along well with other pets including other dog breeds. They are extremely loyal and loving to their family and do well with children. In addition, they are good-natured, affectionate, and moderately protective.
Health Problems
There are two health problems that are indicative to the breed. These include GDV and hip dysplasia.
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus (GDV)
Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus is a condition that is prevalent in large and deep-chested dogs. It can sometimes be life-threatening. The condition is usually associated with large meals and stomach dilation. When this happens and pressure builds, particularly when the dog is not able to expel gas or excrement, it causes many systemic issues that require immediate veterinary care. The spleen sometimes twists into the stomach to cut off blood circulation.
To prevent GDV in German Shorthaired Pointers, most vets recommend having a gastropexy at the time of sterilization, when the dog is just a puppy. A gastropexy is a surgical procedure in which the stomach is tacked to the right side of the abdomen in order to prevent the twist that causes so many issues. It’s commonly called ‘stomach tacking’. The cost of this procedure ranges from $200 to $400 when done alongside sterilization (spay or neuter). When a gastropexy is performed alone, the price increases to between $800 and $1000.
To treat GDV costs between $1500 and $3000. Without treatment, the condition is life-threatening.
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is another issue that sometimes affects German Shorthaired Pointers, but it is much more manageable than GDV. Treatment for hip dysplasia can range between $500 and $12,000.
Factors That Affect German Shorthaired Pointer Price
Breeder
Choosing a reputable breeder will usually result in a more expensive German Shorthaired Pointer puppy, however, the dog will be much less prone to health issues. German Shorthaired Pointer breeders are typically dedicated to the breed and genuinely care about its well-being.
In addition, most reputable breeders will require you to either purchase breeding rights or agree to have your German Shorthaired Pointer puppy spayed or neutered. A breeder’s reputation is an important consideration.
Sometimes you can find German Shorthaired Pointers at local shelters, which is great because they tend to cost less and you rescue a German Shorthaired Pointer. They are usually not purebred, however, if that is something that matters to you.
Age
Whether you decide to get a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy or an adult or even a senior dog will affect the price. Whatever the age, these dogs will become family members in no time.
Puppy prices are a little higher, and they generally require more training and supplies. Adult dogs will be slightly less expensive, and senior dogs are usually found at animal shelters with minimal cost.
Bloodline
If you are on the market for a purebred dog with champion bloodlines, you can expect to pay a pretty penny for your new furry friend. But it may be worth it if you are interested in the American Kennel Club (AKC) registry.
Purebred dogs will cost more than mixed breed dogs, particularly those with a champion bloodline.
Lifetime Costs of a German Shorthaired Pointer
Feeding
German Shorthaired Pointers are large dogs and can eat quite a bit. You can expect an adult dog to eat 2-3% of his body weight. If your dog weighs 50 lbs., you can expect him to eat between 50 to 75 lbs. of food per month. German Shorthaired Pointers cost between $100 to $180 per month to feed depending on the brand of dog food you buy.
German Shorthaired Pointer puppies eat a little less. You can expect to spend around $80 to $100 per month on puppy chow.
Medical
Routine and preventative vet visits typically cost between $500 and $700 each year, depending on the clinic you go to. These help keep your pet healthy and reduce unnecessary medical expenses.
If you spay or neuter your pet, you should consider getting the gastropexy done at the same time to reduce both costs and invasive surgical procedures on your GSP puppy. Otherwise, medical costs can be very high to treat GDV.
Be forewarned that medical costs associated with hip dysplasia may arise.
Training
Particularly if you want your German Shorthaired Pointer to be a gun dog or a hunter, you will need to invest in training. You will want your dog’s behavior to be friendly, in addition to being sociable with other dogs.
New dog owners will obviously want their German Shorthaired Pointer puppies housebroken. Training will also help with positive reinforcement and canine education.
Training costs differ when considering private versus group lessons. For private lessons, you can expect to pay $40 to $60 per session. The trainer can evaluate how many sessions you should expect to have.
Group lessons typically cost between $25 to $80 per class.
Miscellaneous
There are additional costs that you may want to consider that are associated with owning a German Shorthaired Pointer and other breeds as well. Other expenses can add up quickly, so it’s best to know what they are ahead of time.
German Shorthaired Pointers are high-energy dogs, so it’s important that they get enough exercise. If you don’t have a large outdoor space for them, it’s imperative that they get enough walks. This may mean paying for a dog walker, which can range between $15 and $25 for 30-minute walks. If your GSP dog doesn’t play well with others, private walks will cost more.
If you are a frequent traveler, you will need either a dog sitter or a boarding facility. These prices can range depending on which option you choose. Expect to pay between $30 and $90 per day for dog boarding services. Dog babysitters may be available for an average price of $60 per day while allowing your pet to stay in the comfort of his own home while you are gone.
You will also need to consider whether to purchase medical pet insurance for your shorthaired pointer. The average price of pet insurance is in the range of $300 to $800 annually.
How Much Does a German Shorthaired Pointer Cost?
The price range of purchasing a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy is between $500 and $1000, with an average price of $750. While German Shorthaired Pointer puppies are more expensive, you can sometimes get an adult or senior dog for a little less. Consider looking at your local shelter for a GSP dog if bloodlines don’t matter to you.
