Old Danish Pointing Dog
Also known as Gammel Dansk Hønsehund · Chien d'Arret Danois Ancestral · Altdänischer Vorstehhund · Antiguo Perro de Muestra Danés
Denmark, Continental Pointing Dogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 50–60 cm
- Weight
- 26–34 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Gentle
- Calm
- Friendly
- Steady
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Old Danish Pointing Dog
The Old Danish Pointing Dog is a pointer from Denmark, developed on farms to find and point game birds. It has a sturdy, medium-large body, a short coat that is white with brown patches, and drop ears. It is a calm, steady worker and quite rare outside Denmark. It is valued mainly by hunters and enthusiasts in its home country.
Temperament
Typically calm, gentle and friendly, and generally good with family. It is moderately active indoors and works steadily outdoors. Training is usually straightforward.
Exercise
Needs around one to two hours of exercise daily, preferably with a chance to run safely.
Grooming
The Old Danish Pointing Dog has a short, dense coat that is easy to care for. Brush weekly with a firm brush to take out dead hair. Wipe its heavy lips and ears after meals and muddy days.
Care & wellbeing
A calm, steady gundog that has long been kept on Danish farms, it does best with a job to do and a household that includes it. Keep it lean and check its ears after wet fieldwork.
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
- An occasional brush is plenty
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 Old Danish Pointing Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Danish pointing dog bred from older local hunting dogs and Spanish and other pointer types, used to find and indicate game birds. The breed was rebuilt in the 20th century. It is a calm, steady gundog.
Health
The breed can be prone to
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Ear check
Not every Old Danish Pointing Dog 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 Old Danish Pointing Dog right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- 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 Old Danish Pointing Dog get?
Adult Old Danish Pointing Dogs typically stand about 50–60 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 26–34 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Old Danish Pointing Dogs 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 Old Danish Pointing Dog 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 Old Danish Pointing Dog need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Old Danish Pointing Dogs easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Old Danish Pointing Dogs shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Old Danish Pointing Dogs 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 Old Danish Pointing Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Old Danish Pointing Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections. Not every Old Danish Pointing Dog 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
- Denmark
- Type
- Continental Pointing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1969