German Shorthaired Pointer Dogs Available for Adoption in Chelsea, Michigan

Socialization: Jenna is initially shy when meeting adult men, but does allow them to approach her. She loves women, but can be shy upon meeting any new people. She is fine with the few kids I have introduced her to but is not a fan of teenage boys (girls are fine). She will bark at them and back away. She will bark in the house when someone walks by with a dog but she is easily redirected and stops quickly. Jenna loves the dog park, especially when she can find a friend who likes to play chase with her. If a dog comes up to her that she is isn't interested in getting to know, she will just keep on walking along with us. She isn't submissive to other dogs but gives everyone a fair chance to get to know her and decides then. She has given up trying to play with our resident dog (not her thing) but loves when the neighbor's dog is out. When on a walk Jenna will look at other dogs along the way but not react. Jenna has not been introduced to cats here. She really wants to chase any squirrels or rabbits that come into the yard or on a walk - so maybe she would be ok with a dog-savvy feline friend but I can't be sure.

Training: Jenna has great recall when at the dog park and in the yard. She knows "sit" and is getting the hang of "down" too. She is treat-motivated and wants to learn if that means more snacks. She is attentive and wants to please. She is well behaved on a leash in public places as well as on a walk. We crate Jenna for meals as she eats much quicker than our other dog. We do also crate her when we leave, as I am not quite sure what the two of them might get up to. She settles nicely in her crate and seems content when we get back home. She is not crated overnight. Jenna has never had an accident in the house since we have had her and goes by the back door to be let out. She will try to counter surf but her short stature doesn't allow her to get in too much trouble - we are working on it. Jenna does love to chew on a nylabone or play with toys, so as long as she has appropriate choices available to her, she hasn't chewed anything she shouldn't.

Activity requirements: Jenna usually gets two walks a day totaling 1.5 - 2 miles. She walks very well on the leash. She is learning our work routine and gets happy when she knows it is time to go to the trails. Jenna also enjoys roaming around the yard and get a good run at the dog park. She is not high energy at all, so if there is a consistent exercise routine in place she is very calm in the house and likes to snooze in her bed or a sunny spot by the window. She also likes to just be outside watching all the comings and goings and laying on a blanket in the sun.

Fence requirements: We are currently training Jenna to our invisible fence and she seems to be picking it up quickly. We can drop the long lead in the yard and let her wander (but I just worry she will bolt if she kicks up a rabbit). I think Jenna would be fine with a consistent exercise routine and not need to be out in the yard too much if there is no fence, but a home with either a physical or an invisible fence would also be fine for her.

Personality: Jenna is very attached to us already. She has bonded quickly and learned couches, beds, and blankets are all the best things. She is such a little girl she doesn't take up much room and loves to be near anyone who is sitting down. If she can be touching you, all the better. She is very watchful and will keep an eye on what you are doing and where you are. She co-exists well with our resident setter and is happy to share space when the setter allows it. Jenna won't go running to meet a new person but when she chooses you to be hers, you know it with a constant companion and shadow.

Health history: Jenna is spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccinations, and on monthly heartworm prevention. Jenna has had no heath concerns and received a clean bill of health (and admiration) from our local vet. Her next leishmaniasis test is due in Janaury 2027.

This dog originates from Greece where Leishmaniasis is endemic. They tested negative before coming to the USA, but the parasite can remain dormant in the system for many years, so potential adopters must be willing to commit to annual testing for the next 7 years. Typically, the test needs to be sent to a special lab, but any regular vet can draw the blood and send it to the lab. The cost of the test seems to vary widely by area, but is approximately $150-$250. or if your vet is willing to send the test to a veterinary college lab, cost can be as low as $80.

Foster comments: Jenna is only 22" at the shoulder and 31 lbs. - everyone who meets her assumes she is an 8 mo old Pointer puppy and not a 2 year old. She gets a lot of "she's so little!" comments. Jenna isn't the kind of dog to give you kisses and show much excitement, but she is showing to be very loyal and loving her new life with a family. She has been fine with all the sights and sounds of home life, it's just the teenage boys she cannot seem to come to terms with. We have been working on it and I believe she will come around. Jenna is very laid back and watchful in a curious way. She would prefer if you were home with her more often than not, but does very well on car rides and in public places if she can go with you. Jenna is very willing to learn and will watch you intently to see what you want her to do. When your attention isn't on her she is content to go find a bone or toy and occupy herself for awhile and then take a nap. She is our first German Shorthaired Pointer foster and seems to have none of the typical "high-energy needs" everyone warned us about. Even though Jenna may look like a perennial puppy, you can tell she has had a litter of pups herself, and has seen some things in her previous life - if you have space and love for Jenna I believe she will be a loyal friend for someone.

Foster comments: Waukesha, WI

Transport note: We are able to arrange volunteer transport to get dogs from their foster home to their adopter as long as the adopter and the foster are within a 1,000 mile radius of each other and the adopter is located in the USA. If the adopter is more than 1,000 miles from the foster home, adoption would only be possible if the adopter is willing to drive the distance beyond the 1,000-mile transport limit. Long distance adoptions may also be possible if the adopter is willing to pay for a flight to get their dog from the foster home to their location if the foster feels this is an appropriate arrangement for the specific dog. Canadian adopters would have to drive into the USA to pick up their dog, as we do not transport outside of the USA.

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile and intelligent sporting dog breed known for its athleticism and hunting abilities. With a striking coat that is typically liver and white, these dogs are energetic, loyal, and make excellent companions for active families. They excel in various canine sports, such as agility and field trials, and are eager to please their owners. Their keen sense of smell and natural hunting instincts make them ideal for hunting birds and small game. Socialization and mental stimulation are essential for the well being of this breed.