Deutsch Langhaar
Germany, Continental Pointing Dogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 60–66 cm
- Weight
- 25–35 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Steady
- Affectionate
- Keen to please
- Versatile
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Deutsch Langhaar
The Deutsch Langhaar, or German Longhaired Pointer, is a versatile gundog from Germany bred to find, point and retrieve game on land and in water. It is a sturdy, elegant dog with a long, flat or slightly wavy coat, usually brown or brown and white, with feathering on the ears, legs and tail. It is kept mainly by hunters.
Temperament
Calm, steady and affectionate with family, usually more laid-back than other pointers. It is keen to please and trains well, but needs work to do. Reserved with strangers and may be protective.
Exercise
Needs at least one to two hours a day, including off-lead running, retrieving and scent work. It does best in an active home or with hunters.
Grooming
The longer, slightly wavy coat is straight on the body and feathers on the legs, tail and ears. Brush through weekly and look for burrs and seeds in the feathering after field work.
Care & wellbeing
Check long ears often, especially after water or woodland.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 30 kg adult- Water
- 1.2 L–1.8 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,440 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- Brushing a few times a week
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Deutsch Langhaar
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A German long-haired pointing breed developed as an all-round hunting dog for fieldwork, water retrieving and tracking. It is calm and steady, and was shaped for a long coat that gave protection in cover.
Health
The breed can be prone to
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scores
- Eye tests
Not every Deutsch Langhaar is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Deutsch Langhaar right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Deutsch Langhaar get?
Adult Deutsch Langhaars typically stand about 60–66 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 25–35 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Deutsch Langhaars live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Deutsch Langhaar need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Deutsch Langhaar need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Deutsch Langhaars easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Deutsch Langhaars shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Deutsch Langhaars good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Deutsch Langhaar live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Deutsch Langhaars have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections. Not every Deutsch Langhaar is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Germany
- Type
- Continental Pointing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954