Although battue shooting has thousands of votaries there are still many men to be found who love to shoot over dogs, realising more pleasure from seeing the work of a well-trained Pointer or Setter than in counting up an enormous bag at the end of the day. The Pointer is supposed to have come from Spain early in the eighteenth century, and his stamina and scenting powers make him an invaluable dog. As a companion the Setter is more lovable and intelligent.

His Work

He has always been used for one specific class of work, that of finding game by his scenting powers, and then "pointing" it. He will hunt indefatigably without tiring, covering a vast extent of ground in the course of a day. Undoubtedly he is much faster than he was years ago, being cleaner in build. It is questionable, however, if he has improved in his scenting capacity. A good dog should quarter the ground thoroughly as he works, so as to leave no birds behind him.

His Points

From a working point of view, and this is what we have to look at primarily, first consideration must be paid to those points that will enable him to last without tiring. Head long, with a distinct depression or "stop" between the eyes; skull wide between the ears; eyes large and intelligent- looking; ears of fine texture placed high; neck long and muscular; fore-legs straight and heavy in bone; feet round and hard; shoulders clean and sloping; body powerful, with ribs well sprung; loin slightly arched and very strong; thighs and second thighs full of muscle; stifles long and well bent.