Boy or girl German Shorthaired Pointer?

[holmessweetholmes]

So excited! We are about to put our name on the waiting list for a GSP puppy! Have done lots of research, made sure we're ready, found a lovely, reputable breeder etc.

But we can't decide whether to go for a male or a female. What are the pros and cons of each (generally, or for this particular breed)? Thanks!

[mrslaughan]

Has the breeder given you any insights? Our breeder ( diff breed) gave us insights into the diff....

[holmessweetholmes]

Well she said that she doesn't think it's really true that the males are more boisterous, though a lot of people say they are. She pointed out that obviously the males tend to be bigger. But she thinks the temperament is just down to the individual dog. Which is fine, but it just makes it hard to choose!

[fuckweasel]

I had a bitch and a dog (same mum). Both utterly bonkers, gorgeous and loving. Very different personalities, but that was nothing to do with their sex. Males are usually quite a big bigger and chunkier (and cheaper to spay with less associated problems IMO). Be prepared for lots of training and massive walks to tire them out! They have endless energy.

[holmessweetholmes]

Dh and I both run and we are moving to the Lake District in a couple of weeks so we are hoping to have lots of opportunities to tire the dog, the dc and ourselves out! Loving and bonkers sounds nice !

[holmessweetholmes]

I think we might go for a female, on the grounds of size if nothing else. Now I am musing on potential names...

[Acolyte]

I have 2 GSP botched, litter mates.
They are both different in temperament, one is quite stubborn and defiant, the other is eager to please.
Both have been brilliant dogs, they are 13.5 now and still get excited at walk time.
Our nicknames for them are bouncy and twirly because that is exactly what they do when they are excited, little bounces with the front feet, followed by a twirl around.
Love my dogs

[Acolyte]

Erm, they're not botched, they are bitches!

[mrslaughan]

When we got our dog, (not GWP) our breeder said the girls tended to be bossier, independent and therefore harder to train (but not impossible, its a matter of degrees), whereas the boys tended to be soppier, more devoted to their owners, and therefore easier to train......

Its actually very true for the horse world Mares, Stallions and geldings.....

I would go for a boy, as long as you plan to neuter.

[holmessweetholmes]

Only just saw yor post, mrslaughan. We've put our name down for a girl. We will neuter but the breeder is against doing that until they are 2. She says there is increasing evidence that they need the hormones for growth in the first 2 years and that early neutering can increase the risk of bone cancer and other diseases later in life.
Acolyte - your dogs sound fab! Now I am already thinking about possible names...

[MiddletonPink]

Personally I adore males. I have found them loving, loyal and easier.

[imonaplane]

Got one of each - both fabulous dogs! I think it's just down to personal preference. Good luck with your pup!

[mrslaughan]

Yes there is lots of evidence about waiting to neuter, we have a giant breed and with them you need to wait for at least two seasons, which as they are slow to mature is probably after 2yrs.

Also lots of evidence that you should wait with boys too, and actually probably better not too, but then that just provides diff management ishoos.....

[imonaplane]

Also, meant to say once you have a GSP you will be hooked for life. I have had other breeds and none are as clever, funny, loving and generally bonkers as a GSP! Be prepared for some hard work, but it will be worth it!

[imonaplane]

PS (again!) If you are on Facebook (and I know it's not really the done thing!) German Shorthaired Pointer UK is a great group to join.

[holmessweetholmes]

Ooh thank you imonaplane! Nice to know I've made a good choice. I think they are just beautiful! And have only heard good things about their character.

I am apprehensive about how well we will cope, but am determined to train really well. And the exercise won't be a hardship - I don't work atm and will be pleased to have an excuse to be out roaming the fells and escaping the housework Will check out the FB thing.

[needastrongone]

Just be aware that you will not be able to go out running with your puppy for the first year, and to build up any exercise slowly, given the size of the breed.

Good luck, love GSP's, not as much as my spaniels but love 'em mad and energetic!

[holmessweetholmes]

Yup, no running together for a good while, needastrongone. I'm looking at training videos and puppy advice instead of doing the housework all over the research .