Do German Shorthaired Pointers Make Good Pets?

Known for being smart, friendly and willing to please, the German Shorthaired Pointer has a great reputation amongst pets. Loved for their ability to literally point, they may seem like a fun dog to have around. But much consideration goes into preparing to add this breed of dog to your family.

With a dog who is good-natured and easygoing, it seems like a no brainer that this would make a good pet for your family. But largely bred to be a hunting dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer has lots of energy and fits best with a similarly athletic owner who will take him hiking, biking, or running.

A simple walk around your block is barely even a warm-up for a spirited pointer. If they have too much confinement, it can lead to destructive chewing, hyperactivity, and barking. Bored Shorthairs are notorious for chewing through drywall, ripping out stuffing from sofas, and turning the yard into a wasteland of giant craters.

Young pointers up to almost two years old frolic and jump with great force, and things can go flying, even people. So be aware if you have young children. Make sure the pointer gets lots of physical activity.

German Shorthaired Pointers are able to learn a great deal, but they have independent minds and are easily distracted by exciting sounds, sights, scents. Some German Shorthairs are stubborn and obstinate and some can be scheming. You must demonstrate to them, through complete consistency, that what you say is what you mean.

They are very smart dogs, even varying in their barks. For example, if they meet with a stranger, they will either give you a warning, protective bark or a welcoming bark depending on if they feel friendly toward the stranger or not. But they are not aggressive with people, only sometimes with strange dogs and some cats.

With pointers, obedience training is vital for implanting self-discipline and control, for this dog can be a bundle of extreme energy. While being exceedingly trainable, they are also easily distracted and can lose focus. So his owner needs to be patient yet firm.

These dogs are truly lovable and make fine companions for sports, like hunting. After good training, they do as they are told and love their master unconditionally. They would make a great addition to any family, they just need the right circumstances so they can grow happy and do their best to please their master.

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Do Basset Hounds Make Good Pets?

Basset hounds are said to be some of the most friendly and amicable dogs to have in a family. They are said to be friendly and while some are somber, most are good-natured, peaceful, and able to get along with anyone. Bassets are good to have around children, older people, and even guests to your home as well. You do not have to worry about this lovable dog attacking the neighbors.

Below you will find some facts on the basset and why they make the perfect family pet.

Characteristics of the Basset Hound

• They are a strong breed that is small to medium size with short legs that make them even more adorable

• Very good-natured, even above other breeds, so perfect to have around children

• Gets along well with not only people, but other animals as well

Other Characteristics to Watch for

Of course, as with any type of animal, the Basset has other characteristics to watch for. These don't make him any less of the perfect family pet, but some people can be picky.

• This hound snores

• They can be stubborn and just look at you when you give an order

• Basset hounds are notorious for drooling and slobbering, it is one of the things that makes them so cute

• They also tend to be hard to house train, but just like any breed can be taught with patience and firmness

Basset hounds make the perfect pet for someone who has a family to consider. If you give them the love, attention, and affection they deserve, then they will make you a loyal family pet. The hound is great with children and will adapt quickly to other family pets.

Do not leave the animal pinned in a yard for too long, because they do tend to bay and howl quite loudly, which may disturb the neighbors.

If you are looking for a dog breed that is gentle, playful, and sweet, then a basset hound may just be the breed for you and your family. Sure, they have their own set of problems, but these lovable animals with the soulful eyes are hard to resist, quickly worming their way into your heart.

So, yes, basset hounds make great family pets. From their playful ways to their stubbornness and "what's in it for me," attitude, you can't find a better pet to become a pet parent too if you are looking.

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