Did you know that a television show called “DogTown” once rehabilitated a Pointer named Lucas, who eventually became a therapy dog? It’s surprising, isn’t it? Many people might have preconceptions about a breed like the Pointer, labeling them as dangerous. But the story of Lucas demonstrates that it might not be the breed, but the treatment and training a dog receives that influences its behavior.
Let’s not be hasty and simply label a breed based on hearsay or vague notions. Each dog is an individual with its own personality, characteristics, and potential for loyalty or aggression. As such, it wouldn’t be right or accurate to categorize all Pointers, or any breed, as dangerous or docile.
That said, let’s take a closer look at Pointers and why they may or may not be perceived as dangerous.
Pointers originated in England around the 17th century. They were bred to work alongside hunters, and they were particularly adept at pointing towards prey. It’s where they got their name! These dogs were not designed to attack or show aggressiveness. In fact, they are naturally quiet, gentle, and amiable.
This friendly breed displays a mild and good-natured temperament. Pointers are renowned for their intelligence, energy, and agility. They can bond closely with their human families and are generally very loving towards children. These key attributes of the Pointer’s personality make them ideal as family pets rather than securing the tag as a dangerous breed.
But no dog is perfect, no matter the breed, and Pointers do have characteristics that can create an aura of perceived danger if not managed correctly.
Pointers are incredibly energetic, high-stamina dogs. They require substantial exercise daily, or they could grow frustrated and resort to destructive behavior like digging, chewing, or incessant barking. These actions can be mistaken for signs of aggression or danger, when in fact, the poor dog might simply be bored or over-energized.
Training your Pointer early in command obedience and socialization can help alleviate uncontained energy and potential harm they might cause to your property or even themselves. Physical fitness, brain stimulation, and positive reinforcement training are keys to a content, happy, and well-behaved Pointer.
Their size and look can also give people the wrong impression. The Pointer is a powerful, muscular dog. Females typically weigh around 45-65 pounds, while males can be about 55-75 pounds. Standing on all fours, they can be 23 to 28 inches tall. Additionally, their double coat, while short, is dense, which, when combined with their muscular stature, can make them visually intimidating to some. Remember, size doesn’t equate to danger. It’s only by being aware of a dog’s energy level, training, and temperament that you can accurately assess their potential risk factor.
It’s essential to keep in mind that any dog, regardless of breed, can become aggressive or dangerous under certain circumstances. A dog might show aggressive behavior due to fear, protective instincts, over-excitement, or even because they’re in pain. However, Pointers are not inherently aggressive; instead, their hunting instincts might sometimes kick in, leading to potential chase behavior with smaller pets and wildlife, which could mistakenly be construed as aggression.
As a Pointer owner or prospective owner, you shouldn’t worry needlessly about whether Pointers are dangerous. Instead, consider if you’re providing the best environment and care for your dog. Make sure they’re getting a balanced diet, adequate exercise, good health care, enough social interaction, and proper training.
Remember Lucas, the Pointer from “DogTown”? His story shows that we shouldn’t label breeds as dangerous. It’s fairer and more accurate to understand that a dog’s remaining behavior depends on its upbringing, environment, and how it is treated.
In conclusion, a Pointer dog isn’t dangerous by nature. Like any breed, their potential for danger or aggression is influenced far more by their environment, the ways they’re handled, and trained rather than inherent temperament. Therefore, a well-cared for, properly trained and appropriately stimulated Pointer will not pose any more danger than any other breed of dog. Enjoy your Pointers; they are loyal, affectionate, and active companions who will love you back unconditionally!
