Old Spanish Pointer, an extinct Spanish breed of dog is considered the ultimate ancestor to almost all pointing breeds. These large dogs were used to catch birds in nets.

Old Spanish Pointers have a head that is low, dry and has fine ears. They also have a chest with broad shoulders and eyes in drab shades. Their ribs and legs were muscular, with large round ribs.

Origin & History

Roman authors first mentioned the Old Spanish Pointer in the 1st century. Sallustius, Pliny and other ancient writers stated that the dogs used to hunt birds. Muslim Conquerors found them extremely useful centuries after they were first mentioned.

Old Spanish Pointer were used to hunt birds with nets - The Fascinating Story of the Old Spanish Pointer
Old Spanish pointers were used in the past to catch birds by using nets.

With them, the Muslim Conquerors introduced a new technique for hunting falcons. They would then locate birds in the area and stay motionless, waiting for the hunters to arrive with their birds. The birds, such as falcons and vultures, would then mark the location of the prey bird.

The Old Spanish Pointers, which were intended for hunting purposes, were frequently brought to England in the 17th century and later. Thereafter, in the late 19th century, a pointer cinófilo scholar named StonehengueThe breeder of these dogs,, claimed that they were created by breeding lighter and faster samples.

What caused the Old Spanish Pointer to become extinct?

In the early 20th century, the Old Spanish Pointer was extinct due to the Spanish Civil War. These dogs’ population was greatly affected by the civil war.

The three devastating years of the war were only able to be survived by a handful of dogs. The breeders did not care to preserve these dogs, as they no longer served a purpose. Consequently, the remaining breed died from old age.

Temperament, Behavior, & Personailty

It was a loyal dog with a loving temperament. These dogs were very intelligent and learned new things quickly. In addition, the dogs would not back down from defending themselves and their homes against any wild animal. The giant bodies and their suspicious personalities made them the perfect guard dogs.

The Old Spanish Pointer is a hunting breed and needs a lot of exercise. It would easily get bored if it was not entertained. They would also act oddly if they were left home alone and suffer from anxiety.

The Old Spanish Pointer is a child-friendly breed.

The Old Spanish Pointer is a dog that loves children and has a loving, affectionate nature. The Old Spanish Pointer loved to play with children, and gain their attention. Since they were entertained when they played with kids, they didn’t mind fighting. Their body size is something that you should be aware of.

FACTS

  • The Old Spanish Pointer was also known as Perro de Punta Español and Braco Español.
  • The descendants of this breed are most of the modern breeds.
  • The 17th century saw it crossed with Bloodhounds You can also find out more about the following: German Hounds The result was the German Shorthaired Pointer.
  • It is believed that the Spanish Pointer descends from this breed.
Old Spanish Pointer was also known as Perro de Punta Espanol - The Fascinating Story of the Old Spanish Pointer
Perro de Punta Espanol is another name for Old Spanish Pointer.

Colors

Three colors are available for the Old Spanish Pointer:

  • Black
  • White
  • Brown

The Size

Old Spanish Pointers ranged in height from 22 to 26 inches (56 cm-66 cm), and weighed between 52-66 pounds (23.5-30 kilograms).

Puppies

In average, an Old Spanish Pointer mother dog gives birth to 6-8 puppies per time.

Similar Dog Breeds

  • Pachón Navarro
  • Spanish Pointer