German Shorthaired Pointer Price Guide (Puppies & Adults) & Ownership Costs

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a sporting dog that is well renowned for its versatility in the field. This dog type excels at hunting a wide variety of game and is also an excellent retriever whether by land or by sea. Deeply devoted to its family, affectionate, and loving, the German Shorthaired Pointer has high energy levels and requires a family that enjoys a very active lifestyle. Best suited to experienced dog owners, the German Shorthaired Pointer makes an excellent family pet; however, this dog breed does not do well if left alone for long periods of time and is incompatible with apartment life.

Thinking the German Shorthaired Pointer is the dog for you? Read on to learn more about how much you can expect to pay for this sweet-natured, active sporting breed.

How Much is a German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy? $600-$5000+

If you have your heart set on adding a German Shorthaired Pointer to your home, the first step you should take is finding where the best breeders are located and how much you can expect to pay for one of their puppies. A simple Google search will quickly indicate that there is a lot of diversity in pricing for German Shorthaired Pointer puppies. Though it is true that purchasing a puppy from a reputable breeder of German Shorthaired Pointers will likely mean a more costly upfront expense, this initial high cost may save you a lot of heartache and money down the road.

Though dog breeding occurs on a worldwide scale; presently, it is an unregulated industry. This means that since there is no universal governing body that each breeder is at liberty to establish the price they feel is fair for their puppies. Because of this, you will see a wide range of pricing from breeder to breeder and even from state to state. There are many reasons why this is so.

How do breeders decide how much to charge for their puppies?

A lot of different factors combine to help a breeder determine a final price for one of their German Shorthaired Pointer puppies. As with all things in life, price does not necessarily dictate quality, and this is particularly true when it comes to the purchase of a pup. However, the old adage you get what you pay for carries with it a lot of wisdom. Though you may be able to find a puppy for sale for a very low price, chances are you will spend far more than you saved on your initial purchase price down the road.

The purchase price for a puppy from a reputable breeder ensures your pup was born and raised in the ideal conditions to prepare it for life as a cherished and confident canine companion. Reputable breeders raise each of their puppies with love and are committed to providing the appropriate care, nutrition, and socialization during your pup’s critical first weeks of life. These important steps ensure your puppy develops a personality that views the world with confidence and enthusiasm instead of fear. This process involves a significant investment of time, money, and resources, and as a result, the purchase price to obtain one of these puppies will be higher.

Most often, the price requested for a puppy is determined by the investment made into that particular breeder’s breed, their own dogs, and their puppies.

Factors that may play a role in this final number are things like appropriate health testing for both of the parent dogs, stud fees for the sire’s service, pre- and post-natal care for the mother dog, and the expenses involved in whelping and raising a litter well.

The breed standard is very important to a reputable breeder. Ensuring the puppies they produce are true to their correct form, function, and temperament are a vital part of helping to preserve the German Shorthaired Pointer for future generations to enjoy. A breed standard is a written document that outlines in detail what the ideal German Shorthaired Pointer should look and act like. Adherence to this standard means ensuring all breeding stock is of the right conformation, temperament, and health to ensure the future longevity of the breed.

The American Kennel Club’s 9th most popular breed in 2021, the German Shorthaired Pointer excels in its role as both a beloved family companion and a skilled working dog. A dog breed with energy to spare, the German Shorthaired Pointer requires vigorous daily exercise to remain physically and mentally content. A dog of high intelligence, this pooch is a natural at many different activities including conformation, performance sports, field trials, and hunting. The German Shorthaired Pointer bonds deeply to its family and does not do well when left alone for lengthy periods of time.

Because the German Shorthaired Pointer has recently enjoyed great success at the Westminster Kennel Club Show, the breed has seen a resurgence of popularity. When this occurs, some less than scrupulous breeders take advantage of this increase in interest and choose to breed more frequently and inflate the prices for their puppies, allowing for a maximum of profit. Reputable breeders do not allow supply and demand to change their breeding plans or compromise what they feel is best for their dogs. Their prices remain status quo until a dramatic rise in the expenses incurred for breeding, whelping, and appropriately raising a litter becomes untenable, and a slight change in pricing is required to help cover costs.

German Shorthaired Pointer puppies are available throughout the country for a variety of prices. Though some breeders do list their puppies for as little as $600, this is not the norm for this breed. German Shorthaired Pointer puppies may cost as much as $5000 with show quality pups being even higher priced. Generally speaking, the German Shorthaired Pointer puppy is one of the more affordably priced dog types today.

However, there are many more expenses to consider than simply the initial purchase price of your German Shorthaired Pointer. Other costs you will need to keep in mind for the future include veterinary care, vaccinations, training, grooming, food, toys, and much, much more.

How Much Does a German Shorthaired Pointer Puppy Cost? $600-$5000+

The purchase of a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy will be more expensive than what you would pay to obtain an adult, retired breeding or show dog, or a senior. This is quite common regardless of which breed you set your mind on. One of the key factors in the final price you pay for your pup is most often location.

Sometimes, you will be very fortunate and will discover a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy/adult or even a German Shorthaired Pointer mix that has been surrendered to a shelter or a rescue for rehoming. Choosing to rescue a GSP can be the ideal solution for many families. Puppies and adults from shelters or rescues will already be fully vaccinated and are also often already housetrained, an added bonus for you. Adoption rates are typically considerably lower than the purchase price of a German Shorthaired Pointer pup from a reputable breeder, making this a more affordable option for some families.

Another option you could consider is contacting the nearest German Shorthaired Pointer rescue. Often these types of rescues will receive puppies, adults, and seniors into their care that are in need of new loving forever homes.

Companion German Shorthaired Pointer Puppies=$600-$5000+

The lowest price in the United States for German Shorthaired Pointer puppies today is $600. However, this low a price is highly unusual. More typically, you can expect to pay $1200-$1500 for a pet quality German Shorthaired Pointer pup.

Show Potential German Shorthaired Pointer Puppies=$1500+

Some breeders will sell their puppies as “show potential” between the ages of 8 and 16 weeks. Since the German Shorthaired Pointer requires time to mature into its adult frame, it is impossible to determine so young what a puppy’s final conformation will be. If a puppy appears to be show quality at 8 weeks of age, some breeders will sell these puppies as show potential with a contract that stipulates what must happen if the pup does not develop as hoped for. Most often, this contract states that the puppy is to be returned for a refund or a replacement puppy with the breeder rehoming the pup in an appropriate loving pet family.

Why is there a price difference between show and pet quality puppies?

Dog shows were developed with one main purpose in mind: the evaluation of breeding stock. Because of this, there is an expectation placed on the breeder of each dog they sell as show quality. Each time a puppy carrying a breeder’s kennel name walks into a ring with its owner, that breeder’s line and breeding program is being assessed. Because of this pressure placed upon a breeder, they must be willing to sell you one of the best puppies they have produced in a litter, and this comes at a cost.

Showing dogs is a wonderful way for a breeder to obtain an honest evaluation of their breeding program from an objective outside authority. These assessments are of great help in future breeding pairs and help the breeder to continue to strive towards the goal of reaching towards the breed standard.

When a breeder chooses to sell you a show potential puppy, they are releasing their right to use this dog in their breeding program going forward. Because of this, you will pay a higher price tag to obtain a puppy of this quality and with these privileges. The placement of a show quality puppy involves a lot of trust on behalf of the breeder and may mean your breeder will also have to mentor you in the art of dog presentation in the future.

If you wish to purchase a German Shorthaired Pointer puppy to show, you can expect to pay approximately $1500, and most often considerably more, for this privilege.

Guaranteed Show Quality German Shorthaired Pointers (Older Puppies and Young Adults)=$3000+

Some breeders are willing to sell a dog that they will guarantee to be show quality. However, if you are able to find a breeder willing to do this, you can expect to pay a very high price for a dog of this caliber; most often, $3000 or more.

To provide a guarantee that your German Shorthaired Pointer is show quality, a breeder must first wait until the dog is fully developed and mature. At this time, they can then assess if the dog has the required attributes to succeed in the show ring. Among the things your breeder will look for during this time are a correct bite and that both testicles are fully descended in a male. Other characteristics your breeder will want to observe are whether or not the dog develops any disqualifying or distracting faults that may hamper any future wins as a show dog.

When a breeder makes the decision to sell you a guaranteed show quality German Shorthaired Pointer, they are making a significant investment in you. Most breeders who opt to do this will require proof of your commitment to showing the dog since they are sacrificing a high quality GSP that could be useful to their own future show and breeding programs.

Many breeders will only sell dogs of this caliber on a co-ownership. Co-ownership deals can be mutually beneficial; however, it is important that you have a highly detailed contract that outlines what is expected of each party and what will occur if either person defaults on the agreement.

Retired Adult German Shorthaired Pointers=$350-$1000

As dogs age, many breeders make the decision to retire them from their careers as breeding, show, or performance dogs. When this happens, the breeder is looking for the ideal forever home for their cherished pooches. Some breeders sell retired German Shorthaired Pointer adults for the same price as a pet puppy. However, some breeders prefer to offer the dog to pet homes for the cost of the dog’s spay or neuter which is typically around $350 to $1000.

Rescue or Shelter Puppies and Adults=$50-$1000

Sometimes, a German Shorthaired Pointer or GSP mix will end up in rescue or at a local shelter. If you are fortunate enough to discover one here, you can expect to pay $50-$750 for adult dogs. Puppies are most often available for $750-$1000.

Senior German Shorthaired Pointers (8+)=$350-$500

Sadly, the German Shorthaired Pointer can be prone to developing many different types of cancer. However, most often, the breed has excellent longevity, living from 12 to 14 years of age. Adopting a senior German Shorthaired Pointer is an excellent idea for many families and offers definite advantages. Since senior dogs are already housetrained and are naturally lower in energy than a young GSP, you gain a well-adjusted, happy family companion that requires less exercise and that is ready to enjoy the good life by your side.

The average price you will pay for a senior German Shorthaired Pointer is $350 to $550.

Service Dogs= Not recommended for this breed

A high energy, high drive working dog, the German Shorthaired Pointer is not the ideal fit for life as a service of therapy dog.

Should I Get a Male or a Female German Shorthaired Pointer?

For many families, they have a strong preference for one gender of German Shorthaired Pointer over another. There are definite differences between the two sexes which should be considered before making a commitment to purchase a puppy from a breeder.

Male German Shorthaired Pointers are known for being highly sociable, eager to please, and deeply loving and affectionate. They retain their youthful ways for many years, remaining puppy-like and energetic well into their senior years. Males tend to become very attached to their family members with some owners describing them as “Velcro dogs.”

The German Shorthaired Pointer is not a breed that is known to be aggressive; however, males will have stronger personalities and display more protective instincts than their female counterparts. The breed is easy to train, being motivated by food and praise. The male GSP bonds with each member of the family rather than selecting one favorite. Sadly, the male Pointer typically has a shorter life expectancy than the female and may be more prone to suffering from life threatening heart problems.

By comparison, the female German Shorthaired Pointer is equally as sociable as their male counterparts; however, they are more independent minded. Females are not as playful and are not as interested in pleasing their owners. Girls in this breed are not as clingy, preferring their own space and time spent in their own company.

Female German Shorthaired Pointers tend to choose one person in the family as their own. They are naturally aloof with strangers and can be reserved around children. Male GSPs are willingly very devoted while females require you to prove you are worthy of their love and respect.

Why Purchase a Purebred German Shorthaired Pointer?

There are many reasons to consider purchasing a purebred German Shorthaired Pointer puppy from a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders focus on producing puppies that have excellent temperaments, correct structure, and optimal health to ensure the longevity of the breed. They also commit to investing the required time and resources to help their puppies develop into confident and happy pups to fulfill their role as cherished family companions well. Many reputable breeders so highly value the future health of their offspring that in addition to health testing all of their breeding stock, they also provide a written health guarantee, giving you peace of mind as to the future health of your pup and the breed as a whole.

When you purchase a purebred puppy from a reputable breeder, you not only gain a new family pet; you also gain a lifelong support system from someone with a vast amount of experience in the breed. This relationship can be invaluable to you in future. Reputable breeders not only offer you lifetime support but also a commitment to ethical breeding practices, optimal puppy raising conditions, and an investment in whelping and raising each puppy they produce to be healthy, well-adjusted canine members of society.

Unfortunately, all breeds are naturally predisposed to developing certain health conditions. Thankfully, there are pre-screening breeding tests available today that can evaluate a dog’s genetic material and physical health to determine suitability for use in a breeding program. These tests greatly reduce the chances of passing on heritable health problems to the offspring of any breeding pair.

The list of recommended tests for the German Shorthaired Pointer are listed on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website. Another excellent resource for those considering purchasing a German Shorthaired Pointer is the German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America. A passing score on the health tests recommended for the German Shorthaired Pointer gives a vote of confidence that that particular dog can safely be used for breeding. Once the testing is completed, many breeders opt to list their dogs’ results on the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website, a public database.

All German Shorthaired Point puppies born to parents that are AKC registered may be registered with the American Kennel Club. Though this is not required, there are benefits to be gained if you choose to do so. Among the programs AKC offers as perks to the owners of registered puppies are microchip tracking programs like AKC Reunite as well as discounts and promotions on products and services including pet insurance.

Does Location Make a Difference When It Comes to Price?

Location most definitely plays a role in how much you will pay for your German Shorthaired Pointer puppy. GSPs are not as popular as some breed types and can be a little more difficult to locate. With this in mind, states that have a larger concentration of breeders will often have lower prices for those pups than in areas where there are very few.

Another factor that can impact the cost of a puppy are the expenses the breeder must pay to breed, whelp, and raise the litter. Though some costs are standardized such as microchips and AKC registration, other fees are set by the city and state the breeder lives in. This means that a breeder in Idaho may pay significantly more money for things such as vaccinations, microchip insertion, puppy food, veterinary care, health certificates, whelping expenses, and prenatal care than a breeder that lives in Colorado.

German Shorthaired Pointer Price List by Location (US State)

Virginia	$1200-$3500
Missouri	$1500-$2000
Pennsylvania	$1500-$2000
Michigan	$1200-$3000
New York	$3000-$5000
Ohio	$1200-$1500
Indiana	$1200-$1800
Florida	$1500-$2000
Texas	$1800-$2250
Georgia	$1200-$1500
North Carolina	$1500-$4000
Oregon	$1500-$2500
Washington	$600-$1500
California	$1600-$2200
Idaho	$900-$1400
Minnesota	$1200-$1500

German Shorthaired Pointer Ownership Costs

Here is a breakdown of what you can expect to spend per month for these items for a Bulldog:

Dog food (kibble)	$150
Dog food (raw)	$150
Dog treats and chews	$50
Toys	$50
Grooming	$100
Vet	$0-$200
Health insurance	$50-$75

The price you pay for your German Shorthaired Pointer puppy is only a small expense compared to the costs you will face throughout the life of your dog. Since Bulldog live from 12 to 14 years, you will have many years of fun, and many bills to pay, in your future.

Here is an approximate breakdown of what you can expect to pay for your dog:

Puppy supplies=$650+

Puppy supplies is a term that refers to such items as training treats, a leash and collar, a crate, pee pads, and toys.

Puppy vaccinations=$250

The two sets of vaccinations remaining in your pup’s puppy series plus an additional two dewormings will cost you approximately $250.

Puppy training=$100-$600+

Puppy socialization and manners classes range in price from $25 to $100 per class and are taught in blocks of 4-6 weeks.

Ongoing adult training/dog sports=$500-$2500+

From dog performance sports to conformation, scent work, tracking, and more, the sky’s the limit when it comes to fun things to do with your dog. As an average, you will pay from $500-$2500+ per year for additional training and/or participation in dog sports.

Veterinary fees=$100-200+ annually

An annual health exam is a must for every dog. This number should be increased to twice yearly during the senior years.

Because accidents and illnesses can occur, it is wise to budget an additional $3000-$5000 for emergency vet care.

Insurance=$50-$75 per month

The average pet insurance policy costs approximately $50-$75 per month. Over a lifespan of 10 years, that total comes to $9,000. Bear in mind that your premiums may increase as your dog ages. Also, most insurance plans also have deductibles which must first be satisfied before you receive any refunds for monies paid out for veterinary care.

Food=$150+ per month

A dog food suited to the needs of the German Shorthaired Pointer will cost between $100-$150 each month.

Grooming=$100

A dog breed that sheds moderately, the German Shorthaired Pointer has low grooming requirements. A brush with a firm bristled brush several times a week and a bath on an as needed basis is all the German Shorthaired Pointer will require to look and feel its best. The tools required for these jobs should cost around $100.

What to Know Before Buying a German Shorthaired Pointer

The final thing to keep in mind before committing to purchase a German Shorthaired Pointer is the health issues that can plague this sweet, happy breed.

Among the health problems that can plague the German Shorthaired Pointer are:

• Hip dysplasia
• Cancer
• Lymphedema
• Entropion
• Von Willebrand’s Disease
• Gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat/torsion)

Summary

Is the German Shorthaired Pointer the only breed for you? If so, it’s time to start the search for the perfect puppy for you. Whether you choose to purchase your dog from a reputable breeder, a rescue, or shelter, it’s important to note that prices can vary quite widely. As an average, you can expect to pay $600 to $5000+ for a puppy and $50 to $1000 for a rescue.