Old Danish Pointer

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The Old Danish Pointer, or Gammel Dansk Hønsehund, is a medium-sized hunting dog from Denmark. It is white with brown markings and was bred to point birds. The breed is strong and sturdy, with a noticeable difference between males and females: males are powerful, while females are lighter, livelier, and a bit capricious. Overall, they feel calm, determined, and brave.

In the field, the dog moves at a steady pace, stays in contact with the hunter, and points birds without disturbing the ground. It works well on both small and large hunting grounds. The name describes its ability to point birds in the pheasant family (order Galliformes), not its temperament. In Danish, these birds are often called hens or chicken birds, and the English name “Old Danish Chicken Dog” is not correct.

This is a friendly family dog that needs regular exercise. It is fast and active outdoors but quiet indoors, so it isn’t ideal for apartments or very small yards. The Old Danish Pointer dates back to the 17th century and comes from the Spanish Pointer.