The German Shorthaired Pointer, or GSP, and the Weimaraner are two similar breeds. Both originated from Germany, both are gun dogs, and both make adorable companions, yet excellent guard dogs. If you’re wondering what their differences are, then let us help you get to know more about them through this article.
To dive deeper into the Weimaraner’s unique qualities, visit our detailed Weimaraner dog breed guide covering their temperament, grooming, and training needs
Appearance
At a glance, these two breeds look very similar. Both possess an athletic and sturdy stance, although the Weimaraner looks more unique than the GSP.
Built for stamina and speed, the Weimaraner is an elegant-looking breed. Also known as the “Gray Ghost” because of its appearance, the Weim has a short, smooth, and thin coat that fits like skin all over his body. The color varies from blue-gray, silver-gray, or charcoal-blue. According to the AKC, they should not be black but can be long-haired.
They have webbed paws and their eye color can be any of these: amber, blue-gray, or gray.
Meanwhile, the GSP also has a short coat that is liver and white speckles or dappling in color. It has floppy ears, brown eyes, and a docked tail. Like the Weim, GSP looks dashing with his sleek and muscular stance.
Size
In terms of size, Weimaraner is a bit bigger than GSP. They are considered large breeds, while the GSPs range from medium to large.
Male Weimaraners stand at 23 to 28 inches tall (58-70 cm), while females stand at 22 to 26 inches tall (57-65 cm). Their weight varies from 55 to 89 lbs (25-40 kg).
On the other hand, GSPs stand at 20 to 25 inches tall (53-63 cm), weighing between 44 to 71 lbs (20-32 kg).
Life Span
Both dogs can be lifelong companions, so long that their needs are met by their families. With almost the same life span, GSPs can live between 12 to 14 years, while Weims have a life expectancy of 11 to 14 years.
Shedding
Weimaraners and GSPs are moderate shedders, though GSPs may shed all year-round in warm climates. Elsewhere, despite their coats being short, both are seasonal shedders so expect loose hairs all over your house during shedding season.
Temperament
These fun-loving, energetic, and people-oriented dog breeds love to please their owners and are easy to train. Both are known for being loyal and devoted to their families. They love to be included in family activities. If not, you can clearly see the disappointment through their actions.
Both dogs also make excellent guard dogs. Though it might not be aggressive on the intruder, the GSP will bark to alert you that something is wrong.
Meanwhile, the Weimaraner, being a brave and courageous dog, has the tendency to confront a threat with action.
Keep in mind that a properly socialized and trained dog won’t get in trouble unless provoked.
Intelligence
Both dogs are highly intelligent and eager to please their people, thus making them highly trainable dogs. Although their intelligence means that they can easily pick up bad behaviors as well, like how to open doors or escape the yard.
Their intelligence should come with early training to ensure that they grow into a well-rounded dog.
Activity Level
Both the Weimaraners and GSPs have high energy levels and stamina, which means they need vigorous activities per day.
Aside from taking them to a walk, it is also recommended to get them to participate in canine sports, such as agility and flyball. You can also take them hiking, hunting, or jogging. It is essential to meet their physical needs, otherwise, they can become nervous and develop destructive behaviors, such as barking, digging, and chewing.
Trainability
GSPs are very scent-driven. If properly trained, they make excellent detection or sniffer dogs detect materials, such as explosives, illegal drugs, and contraband electronics.
Meanwhile, Weims are very obedient dogs, though sometimes they will not instantly pick up what you teach them, so they’ll try to guess it first. That said, it is important to get their full attention in order to have a successful training session.
Exercise Needs
Both dogs require huge amounts of physical exercise and mental stimulation to keep themselves healthy and fit. They are very active, and short walks would not suffice their needs. Instead, allow them to get involved in vigorous activities, including hunting, swimming, hiking, playing fetch, or participating in dog sports.
With enough exercise and mental stimulation, both dogs will make excellent house pets.
Grooming
Because of their short coats, GSPs and Weims are easy to groom. Brush their hair at least twice a week to keep their hair healthy and shiny. Bathing should only be done when necessary.
Regularly check their ears for wax and mites, clip their nails, and brush their teeth twice or thrice a week.
Good With Family
As mentioned, both breeds are active and energetic dogs, which means they make excellent playmates for older children. They may not do so well with toddlers and younger children, however, due to their large size which may lead to accidents.
When it comes to other animals in the house, these large breeds may see them as prey, especially the smaller animals. Their natural hunting instinct combined with the presence of small animals may lead to dangerous situations. That said, if you have other pets in your houses, such as cats, smaller canines, rabbits, and birds, then neither of these dogs is suitable for you. Some dogs might be mellow though, but it is not worth the risk.
With other breeds of their size, the GSP and Weim can get along well with them, provided that they are socialized early and properly trained.
Apartment Living
Both dogs are not suitable for condo and apartment dwellers mainly due to their large size. They need a home with a large, securely fenced yard where they can expel their energies through running and playing.
Also, keep in mind that they are house dogs, which means they should not live in the kennel or backyard. The GSP and Wein should live indoors near their families.
Health Problems
Although generally considered as healthy breeds, the GSP and Weimaraner can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, as well as bloat which can be deadly if not treated immediately. In addition, Weim is prone to a lot and frequent health problems compared to the GSP.
Weimaraners can suffer from eye diseases, thyroid problems, skin allergies, ear infections, and hunting accidents such as sprains, strains, and cuts.
On the other hand, the GSP may experience heart diseases, eye problems, parvo, and cone degeneration which leads to day-blindness.
That said, it is important that your dog, regardless of the breed, regularly visits the veterinarian in order to prolong their lives.
Final Thoughts
By now, I hope you have decided which of these two German breeds is for you. Regardless of your choice, both will make awesome household pets as well as guardian dogs provided that their needs are met, including daily exercise, healthy diet, proper training, regular check-ups, as well as lots of love, time, and affection from their families.
