Best Dog Beds for German Shorthaired Pointers
Dog Beds Provide Comfort for Dogs!
Introduction
The best dog beds for German shorthaired pointers are those that provide adequate support, especially for their joints and preferences. Orthopedic beds are best.
The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is a versatile and athletic breed known for its intelligence, loyalty, and exceptional hunting abilities. Beyond their hunting prowess, they are friendly, affectionate companions, making them excellent family pets for active households.
Their high energy levels and keen intelligence require regular exercise and mental stimulation to thrive happily. The GSPs are medium to large-sized with a sleek, short coat that can be liver or liver and white in color.
In this guide we will cover the facts you may not know about GSPs, their cost of ownership, best dog beds, and health conditions potential owners should know about.
Best Beds for German Shorthaired Pointer
When choosing a dog bed for your German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP), it’s important to consider several factors to ensure it meets their needs for comfort, support, and durability. Here are the key things owners should look for when buying a dog bed for GSP dogs:
- Size: GSPs are medium to large-sized dogs, so the bed should be large enough for them to stretch out comfortably. Measure your dog from nose to tail when they are fully stretched out and choose a bed that allows them to lie down without their limbs hanging off the edges.
- Support: Look for beds with adequate support, especially if your GSP is older or has joint issues. Orthopedic beds with memory foam or supportive foam can help alleviate pressure points and provide comfort, particularly for dogs prone to hip dysplasia or arthritis.
- Durability: GSPs are active dogs with a tendency to chew and dig, so the bed should be made from durable materials that can withstand their activity level. Consider beds with strong seams, chew-resistant fabrics, and sturdy construction.
- Ease of Cleaning: Choose a bed that is easy to clean, as GSPs can get dirty from outdoor activities. Removable covers that are machine washable are convenient, and beds with waterproof or water-resistant liners can help protect against accidents.
- Comfort and Padding: Opt for beds with ample padding or cushioning to provide comfort for your GSP, especially if they like to curl up or lean against something while sleeping. Beds with bolsters or raised edges can offer a sense of security and support for their head and neck.
- Temperature Control: Consider your climate and your GSP’s preferences. Beds with cooling gel inserts or elevated designs that allow for airflow can help keep your dog cool in warmer weather, while beds with plush fabrics provide warmth in colder temperatures.
- Safety: Ensure the bed is free from hazardous materials or choking hazards. Avoid beds with loose stuffing or small removable parts that your GSP could ingest.
- Location and Use: Decide whether the bed will primarily be used indoors or outdoors. Choose a bed that suits your GSP’s habits and where they prefer to rest, whether it’s in a crate, a designated area in the house, or on a porch.
- Brand Reputation and Reviews: Research reputable brands known for quality dog beds. Read reviews from other owners, particularly those with GSPs or similar breeds, to get insights into durability, comfort, and overall satisfaction.
- Budget: While quality is important, consider your budget when selecting a dog bed. Look for a balance between cost and quality to ensure you’re getting a bed that will last and provide comfort for your GSP.
- Look for The CertiPUR-US Seal: When considering purchasing an orthopedic dog bed, look for the CertiPUR-US seal. This means that the materials used do not contain any toxins or chemicals that are harmful to humans and pets.
By considering these factors, you can choose a dog bed that meets the specific needs and preferences of your German Shorthaired Pointer, providing them with a comfortable and supportive place to rest and relax.
Recommended Dog Bed Brands
When recommending dog beds for German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) owners, it’s important to consider their size, activity level, sleeping style, and comfort needs. Here are some excellent brand options that are often recommended for GSPs:
- K&H Pet Products Original Pet Cot: This elevated dog bed is great for GSPs because it keeps them off the ground, which can be beneficial for air circulation and joint support. It’s durable, easy to clean, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Big Barker 7″ Orthopedic Dog Bed: Known for its orthopedic support, the Big Barker bed is excellent for large breeds like GSPs. It’s designed to provide comfort and joint relief, making it ideal for older or arthritic dogs.
- FurHaven Orthopedic Sofa Pet Bed: This sofa-style bed offers orthopedic support with a cozy bolster for GSPs who like to lean or curl up. It’s made with soft, supportive foam and comes in various sizes to accommodate your dog’s needs.
- PetFusion Ultimate Dog Bed: Featuring a solid memory foam base and supportive bolsters, this bed provides comfort and helps alleviate pressure points. It’s durable, easy to clean, and suitable for medium to large dogs like GSPs.
- AmazonBasics Elevated Cooling Pet Bed: Another elevated option, this bed helps keep GSPs cool with its mesh fabric and raised platform. It’s lightweight, portable, and easy to assemble, making it suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
- Orvis Memory Foam Bolster Dog Bed: Known for its quality and comfort, this bed combines memory foam with a bolster for GSPs who like to rest their heads. It’s durable, supportive, and available in different sizes to accommodate larger breeds.
- Kuranda Dog Bed: Made with a durable PVC frame and ballistic nylon fabric, the Kuranda bed is excellent for GSPs who might chew on their beds. It’s elevated, easy to clean, and provides good orthopedic support.
- Serta Ortho Quilted Couch Pet Bed: This couch-style bed offers orthopedic support with a quilted surface for comfort. It’s designed to provide joint relief and is suitable for medium to large-sized dogs like GSPs.
- Majestic Pet Bagel Dog Bed: Featuring a cozy bolster design, this bed is comfortable and supportive for GSPs who like to curl up or lean against something. It’s made with durable materials and is machine washable for easy maintenance.
- BarksBar Orthopedic Dog Bed: With a solid orthopedic foam base and plush bolster, this bed provides comfort and support for GSPs. It’s designed to relieve joint pain and is easy to clean.
These beds vary in style, material, and features, so choosing one depends on your GSP’s preferences and needs. It’s important to select a bed that provides adequate support, comfort, and durability to ensure your GSP has a cozy place to rest and relax.
Facts About German Shorthaired Pointers
We now share some interesting facts about the German Shorthaired Pointer:
- Average Lifespan: 10- 12 years
- Popularity: They are the 10th most popular dog breed in the United States according to the American Kennel Club.
- Height Males: 23 – 25 inches
- Height Females: 21 – 23 inches
- Weight Males: 55 – 70 lbs.
- Weight Females: 45 – 60 lbs.
- This dog breed is not for apartment dwellers as they need room to roam in the yard.
- Versatile Hunting Dogs: GSPs are renowned for their versatility in hunting. They excel in various types of hunting including pointing, retrieving, and tracking both on land and in water.
- Athletic and Energetic: These dogs are highly athletic and require plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. They thrive in active households where they can participate in running, hiking, and other outdoor activities.
- Intelligent and Trainable: GSPs are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. They are highly trainable and excel in obedience training and various dog sports like agility and field trials.
- Distinctive Appearance: They have a sleek, muscular build with a short coat that is either liver or liver and white in color. Their coat is dense and water-resistant, making them suitable for various weather conditions.
- Family Companions: Despite their hunting prowess, GSPs are affectionate and loyal companions to their families. They are known for their gentle and friendly demeanor, especially with children.
- Excellent Swimmers: GSPs have webbed feet and a natural affinity for water. They are excellent swimmers, making them suitable for hunting waterfowl and participating in water-based activities.
- High Energy Levels: Due to their hunting heritage, GSPs have high energy levels and require mental and physical stimulation. Daily exercise is crucial to prevent boredom and behavioral issues.
- Health and Longevity: On average, GSPs live between 12 to 14 years. They are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic health issues such as hip dysplasia and bloat.
- History and Origin: German Shorthaired Pointers originated in Germany in the 19th century. They were developed through crossbreeding various pointing dogs to create an all-around hunting dog capable of working on both land and water.
- Popular in Sports and Shows: GSPs are not only beloved hunting companions but also popular in competitive dog sports and shows. They often compete and excel in events such as field trials, obedience trials, and conformation shows.
These facts highlight the GSP’s unique blend of athleticism, intelligence, and affectionate nature, making them a favorite among active families and hunters.
Health Concerns
Most German Shorthaired Pointers are tough, healthy dogs, but the breed can be subject to a number of hereditary disorders. German Shorthaired Pointers (GSPs) can be prone to certain genetic and acquired health conditions. Here are some potential health issues that GSPs may face:
- Hip Dysplasia: A common orthopedic condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop properly, leading to discomfort and mobility issues.
- Elbow Dysplasia: Another orthopedic condition affecting the elbow joint, causing pain and lameness.
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): A serious and potentially life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow.
- Hypothyroidism: A thyroid gland disorder that can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.
- Entropion: An eye condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing irritation and sometimes leading to corneal ulcers.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): A group of genetic diseases that cause the retina of the eye to degenerate slowly over time, eventually leading to blindness.
- Von Willebrand’s Disease: A blood clotting disorder that can result in excessive bleeding and difficulty clotting after injuries or surgery.
- Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD): A joint disorder that can affect young, rapidly growing dogs, causing joint pain and lameness.
- Epilepsy: A neurological condition that can cause seizures, which may vary in severity and frequency.
- Allergies: GSPs can be prone to skin allergies, which may manifest as itching, redness, and skin infections.
- Separation Anxiety: These dogs must not be left alone for a long periods of time away from their owners. This social breed enjoys being part of family activities and can become clingy or destructive when they feel isolated. They will develop separation anxiety which is a condition you want to avoid.
It’s important for GSP owners to be aware of these potential health conditions and work closely with their veterinarian to monitor their dog’s health, provide appropriate care, and address any issues promptly. Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, exercise, and responsible breeding practices can help mitigate some of these risks.
Costs of Ownership of GSP Dogs
If you are considering ownership of and German Shorthaired Pointer, it is important that you know some of the costs up front. The estimated costs of owning a German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) for one year can vary depending on various factors such as location, quality of care, and individual needs of the dog. Here’s a breakdown of typical expenses:
- Initial Costs:
- Adoption or Purchase: This can range widely depending on whether you adopt from a shelter or purchase from a breeder. Adoption fees can range from $50 to $300, while purchasing from a reputable breeder can cost anywhere from $800 to $2,000 or more, depending on the lineage and breeder reputation.
- Spaying/Neutering: If not already done, this procedure can cost between $200 to $500.
- Recurring Annual Costs:
- Food: High-quality dog food suitable for GSPs typically costs between $400 to $1,000 annually, depending on the brand and size of your dog.
- Veterinary Care: Annual check-ups, vaccinations, and preventive care such as flea and tick prevention can range from $200 to $600 or more, depending on the health needs of your dog.
- Heartworm Prevention: This can cost around $50 to $200 annually.
- Dental Care: Teeth cleaning and dental care products can range from $100 to $300 annually.
- Medications and Supplements: Costs can vary widely depending on any specific health conditions your dog may have, but budgeting around $100 to $300 annually is a good estimate.
- Grooming: GSPs have short coats that require minimal grooming, but occasional baths, nail trimming, and grooming supplies can add up to around $50 to $100 annually.
- One-Time or Occasional Costs:
- Training Classes: Basic obedience classes or specialized training can range from $50 to $200 per session or course.
- Bedding/Crates: Initial purchase and occasional replacements can total around $50 to $200.
- Toys and Accessories: Depending on your dog’s preferences, this can range from $50 to $200 annually.
- Emergency Veterinary Care: It’s wise to budget for unexpected medical expenses which can vary greatly but could potentially cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars depending on the severity of the issue.
- Total Estimated Annual Cost:
- Low End: Approximately $1,000 to $1,500
- Average: Approximately $1,500 to $3,000
- High End: Above $3,000 (especially if there are significant veterinary expenses)
These estimates provide a general idea of the costs associated with owning a German Shorthaired Pointer for one year. It’s important to budget and plan for these expenses to ensure your dog receives proper care and attention throughout its life.
Conclusion
If you are a potential GSP owner, you now know a lot about this breed of dog. You know their health conditions, facts about the breed, and the costs associated with ownership. Training and socialization is important to this breed.
You must find the time for this training. Keeping your dog active and stimulated is a must. If you cannot provide the time for their daily exercise, it is best to look for another type of dog breed.
Dog ownership can be rewarding. However, this breed of dog likes to run and roam because of their breeding. They are natural hunting dogs and like to go on hikes with their owners.
Because of their health conditions, we recommend that you purchase an orthopedic dog bed. One final tip, when placing the bed in the home, be sure it is out of the way of heavy traffic and drafty areas.
You can read about our other dog breed information articles by clicking HERE!
Shop Dog Beds
Shop dog beds for your dog by selecting or clicking on any bed of choice. You will be taken to Amazon where you can read customer reviews and answered questions and place the order.
As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Your purchase price is the same as if you shop directly on Amazon.
The price at time of publish is included below to give you an idea of what the price is; however, it is subject to change.
Shop Rectangle Dog Beds
Laifug Large Grey Orthopedic Rectangle Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00
Laifug Large Blue Orthopedic Rectangle Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $110.00
The Dogs Bed XL Grey Orthopedic Rectangle Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $185.00
KOPEKS Jumbo Orthopedic Rectangular Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $110.00
Big Barker XL Orthopedic Rectangle Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $240.00
Big Barker XL Burgundy Orthopedic Rectangle Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $200.00
Serta XL Brown Orthopedic Rectangle Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $80.00
DogBed4Less XL Blue Orthopedic Rectangle Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $80.00
K9 Ballistics XL Sandstone Orthopedic Crate Pad
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $159.00
Shop Bolster Dog Beds
Brindle XL Gray Orthopedic Bolster Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $79.00
Bedsure XL Blue Orthopedic Bolster Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $76.00
Bedsure XL Grey Orthopedic Bolster Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $60.00
Lesure XL Navy Orthopedic Bolster Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $40.00
Yiruka XL Grey Orthopedic Bolster Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $55.00
Yitahome XL Brown Orthopedic Bolster Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $37.00
Furhaven XL Gray Orthopedic Bolster Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $130.00
PetFusion XL Grey Orthopedic Bolster Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $60.00
Furhaven Jumbo Blue Orthopedic Bolster Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $60.00
Shop Elevated Dog Beds
K9 Ballistics Chew Proof Elevated Small Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $129.00
Bedsure Medium Elevated Dog Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $33.00
Veehoo Medium Elevated Dog Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $45.00
K&H Pet Products Elevated Bolster Dog Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $57.00
Kuranda Elevated Chew Proof Small Dog Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $134.00
Coolaroo Small Elevated Dog Bed
Price At Time of Publish $130.00 $21.00
Related Articles
- Are Crates Bad for Dogs
- Christmas Presents for My Dog
- Dog Parasite Symptoms
- How To Clean Dog Beds
- Ingredients To Avoid In Dog Treats
- Puppy Proofing Your House
- Signs Your Dog Is Ill
- Using Alexa for Dog Behaviors
- When Should A Dog Bed Be Replaced
Go back to the Dog Luxury Beds home page.