Deutsch Langhaar
Pointing Dog · FCI Group 7 · Purebred · Germany's silky-coated versatile gun dog — an elegant all-rounder on land and water
60–70 lbsWeight
24–26 inHeight
12–14 yrsLifespan
HighEnergy
Pointing Dog · FCI Group 7 · Purebred · Germany's silky-coated versatile gun dog — an elegant all-rounder on land and water
The Deutsch Langhaar (Deutsch Langhaar) is one of Germany's classic versatile hunting breeds, developed in the 19th century from crosses of Spanish pointers, setters, and German water dogs. Unlike its shorthaired and wirehaired cousins, the Deutsch Langhaar has a flowing, silky coat that gives it a distinctly elegant appearance. It is a true all-around gun dog: it points, retrieves, and tracks on both land and water. Gentle, biddable, and deeply devoted to its family, it is equally prized as a companion. FCI recognized (Standard No. 117).
Real Deutsch Langhaar photos — showcasing their elegant silky coats and athletic build.
Gentle, affectionate, and highly intelligent. The Deutsch Langhaar is known for its soft, cooperative nature — it is among the most sensitive and people-oriented of the German pointing breeds. It forms strong bonds with the entire family, is excellent with children, and generally gets along well with other dogs. It dislikes harsh correction and responds best to calm, positive training. A loyal and devoted companion with a calm indoor temperament when well exercised.
High energy. Needs 60–90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. Bred for a full day of hunting across varied terrain, this is an athletic dog that thrives with running, swimming, hiking, and field work. Mental stimulation through nose work, tracking, or retrieving games is equally important. A bored Deutsch Langhaar will find its own entertainment indoors.
The silky, moderately long coat requires brushing 2–3 times per week to prevent tangles, especially on the ears, chest, and legs. The coat is not excessively dense but picks up burrs in the field. Ears need weekly inspection and cleaning. Occasional bathing is sufficient. The breed is a moderate shedder. Nails require regular trimming.
Highly trainable and eager to please. The Deutsch Langhaar excels in field work, obedience, and tracking — it absorbs training quickly and retains commands reliably. Its sensitive nature means positive, reward-based methods work far better than harsh corrections. Early socialization builds confidence. This breed performs at a high level in hunt tests and versatile hunting dog trials.
Generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 12–14 years. Hip and elbow dysplasia occur and should be screened before breeding. Ear infections are common due to the pendant ears and field work. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) has been documented in the breed. Responsible breeders health-test for these conditions. The breed benefits from regular veterinary check-ups.
The Deutsch Langhaar does best on a good-quality complete dog food matched to its age, size, and activity level. As a rough guide, a typical adult eats about 2½–3¾ cups of dry food per day, split into two meals — but a hard-working or very active dog needs more, while a couch companion needs less. Use a large-breed formula and avoid heavy exercise right after meals to reduce the risk of bloat.
Puppies: 3 meals a day of a puppy formula to fuel growth.
Active adults: around 2½–3¾ cups daily, in two meals, adjusted to keep a trim waistline.
Seniors (7+ yrs): slightly fewer calories and, if needed, a joint-supporting formula as they slow down.
Never feed chocolate, grapes or raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, macadamia nuts, or cooked bones. Keep treats to no more than about 10% of daily calories so they don't crowd out balanced nutrition or lead to weight gain.
Where puppies are available, a Deutsch Langhaar from a responsible breeder typically costs around $1,000–$2,500, with rarer bloodlines and imported dogs sitting at the higher end. Rescue or adoption, where possible, is far less — usually a few hundred dollars in fees.
Food, treats & preventatives, routine care and supplies together usually run about $110–$200 per month for a healthy adult, not counting emergencies or boarding.
Over a full lifetime the total cost of ownership generally lands around $18,000–$28,000, including the purchase price. Pet insurance ($15–$45/month) and a small emergency fund are smart ways to cushion against unexpected veterinary bills.