Old Danish Pointer vs Saint-Germain Pointer

Choosing between Old Danish Pointer and Saint-Germain Pointer? They are a similar size, so the real deciding factors are lifestyle and temperament: Saint-Germain Pointer is the higher-energy of the two, while Old Danish Pointer is happier with a calmer routine. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Old Danish Pointer vs Saint-Germain Pointer: full comparison

TraitOld Danish PointerSaint-Germain Pointer
SizeLargeLarge
Energy levelMediumHigh
TrainabilityHighHigh
FriendlinessHighHigh
Good with childrenVery HighHigh
Grooming needsLowLow
SheddingMediumMedium
BarkingLowVery Low
ProtectivenessLowLow
AdaptabilityMediumMedium
Typical lifespan12 years13 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Size and living space

The Old Danish Pointer is a big, substantial dog that does best in a larger home with room to stretch out, ideally with access to a yard. By comparison, the Saint-Germain Pointer is a big, substantial dog that does best in a larger home with room to stretch out, ideally with access to a yard. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Old Danish Pointer thrives on daily walks plus a bit of active play. The Saint-Germain Pointer needs real exercise every single day to stay balanced. If you have a busy schedule, the lower-energy of the two will be easier to keep satisfied; if you are active and want a dog to keep up, the higher-energy breed is the better match.

Grooming and shedding

The Old Danish Pointer needs only light grooming, a brush once or twice a week and sheds a moderate amount, with heavier seasonal moults. The Saint-Germain Pointer needs only light grooming, a brush once or twice a week and sheds a moderate amount, with heavier seasonal moults. Grooming upkeep is similar for both.

Temperament, training and family life

The Old Danish Pointer takes to training fast and works willingly, keeps fairly quiet, barking occasionally and is renowned for its patience and gentleness with children. The Saint-Germain Pointer takes to training fast and works willingly, stays notably quiet indoors and is reliably good with children and a solid family choice. On guarding instinct, Old Danish Pointer is not a natural guard and greets visitors warmly, whereas Saint-Germain Pointer is not a natural guard and greets visitors warmly.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Old Danish Pointer if you want the more child-friendly companion or you want a calmer, lower-energy companion.

Choose the Saint-Germain Pointer if you want a more energetic partner for sport and adventure, you prefer a quieter dog, or you want a longer-lived breed.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Old Danish Pointer or the Saint-Germain Pointer better for families with children?
The Old Danish Pointer tends to be the more naturally child-friendly of the two, though both can do well in family homes with early socialization.
Which sheds more, the Old Danish Pointer or the Saint-Germain Pointer?
The Old Danish Pointer and Saint-Germain Pointer shed a similar amount (medium).
Which is easier to train, the Old Danish Pointer or the Saint-Germain Pointer?
Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is Old Danish Pointer or Saint-Germain Pointer bigger?
Old Danish Pointer and Saint-Germain Pointer are a similar size (Large).
Which barks more, Old Danish Pointer or Saint-Germain Pointer?
Old Danish Pointer tends to be the more vocal of the two, so Saint-Germain Pointer is the quieter choice.
Which is better for apartment living, Old Danish Pointer or Saint-Germain Pointer?
For apartment or apartment living, Old Danish Pointer and Saint-Germain Pointer are an even match — either can work well.

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