Field Spaniel vs German Shorthaired Pointer

Sporting · Medium vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • German Shorthaired Pointer is the larger breed at 55–70 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Field Spaniel.
  • The Field Spaniel typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer has higher daily energy needs.
  • The German Shorthaired Pointer is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitField SpanielGerman Shorthaired Pointer
Group
SportingSporting
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandGermany
Height (male)
18"23–25"
Height (female)
17"21–23"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs55–70 lbs
Weight (female)
35–50 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

About the Field Spaniel

The Field Spaniel is a sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate British spaniel — rare flushing breed, taller than a Cocker. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as sensitive, fun-loving, affectionate.

About the German Shorthaired Pointer

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a friendly, smart, willing-to-please all-around hunting and family dog with a liver-spotted coat. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–70 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, smart, willing to please.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Field Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Ear infections

German Shorthaired Pointer health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Eye conditions
  • Lymphedema