Unusual Breed: Pudelpointer

A black male Pudelpointer

A "dead leaf" Pudelpointer pointing

This German breed was originally derived from, as you may have guessed from the name, the poodle and numerous pointer breeds. Seven poodles were used, as well as almost one hundred of the pointers, to create a fairly utilitarian breed that could track, retrieve, and, of course, point. Though it is quite good ad what it was breed for, it has never been a popular breed. Generally, only people who are serious about hunting will own one.

According to standards, the breed should be heavily built and be "dead leaf," brown, or black in color. The coat should be medium-length and rough and is meant to be good protection against the elements. Most of the faults appear to be those that may impede the ability of the dog to work.

In North America, there are stringent standards set forth by the North American Pudelpointer Alliance in order for Pudelpointers to be bred. This includes the dog being healthy, including being free of such abnormalities as hip dysplasia, and be of good temperament. The males must have a working Utility Title, and females must be able to perform the work the breed was intended for. Despite this, hip dysplasia and skin allergies can be of concern in the breed.

Sources are Fédération Cynologique Internationale, North American Pudelpointer Alliance, and Dr. Bruce Fogle's The New Encyclopedia of the Dog. Images are from Wikimedia Commons under creative commons licenses: one, two.