Our Philosophy
Vickery is dedicated to preserving the versatility and working ability of the German Shorthaired Pointer. Since 2011, we have pursued the ideal Shorthair—driven, confident, and resilient, with the structure and stamina to work tirelessly in the field. Today, our focus extends beyond companion hunting partners to producing dogs capable of excelling in demanding detection roles, where steadiness, environmental stability, and trainability are paramount. These same qualities also produce family companions who are steady, confident, and eager to work alongside their owners. Unflappable and reliable, they bring both loyalty and joy to daily life, making them as dependable in the home as they are in the field.
We remain a small kennel with a carefully planned program, typically producing one or two litters each year. This limited approach means that each breeding is of tremendous importance, and allows us to devote full attention to the development, care, and early socialization of every pup. Our dogs are proven through AKC Hunt Tests, the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association’s (NAVHDA) testing system, and AKC Conformation events, which together demonstrate their instincts, structure, and adherence to the breed standard.
We take our role as stewards of the breed seriously. Mentorship and collaboration within the Shorthair community are essential to our philosophy. This focus allows us to produce German Shorthaired Pointers with the versatility, steadiness, and drive to succeed as outstanding detection dogs, exceptional field partners, well-rounded versatile athletes, and solid family companions.
We breed for Temperament, Working Ability, Conformation, and General Health.
Temperament: We believe that a sound temperament is the cornerstone of the German Shorthaired Pointer. Our breeding decisions prioritize versatility, stability of mind, and a disposition that makes each dog not only a capable worker but also a trustworthy companion. Beauty alone is never enough—our dogs must be confident, reliable, and enjoyable to live with.
We focus on self-assured dogs who maintain a calm, loving presence in the home while remaining adaptable in varied situations. They are steady under pressure, comfortable in their role, and capable of independent thought when the task requires it. Because of this intelligence and initiative, our dogs thrive with owners who provide clear leadership and consistent training.
The versatile pointing dog must be intelligent, active, and biddable, with a strong desire to work in partnership with its handler. Equally important are friendliness and reliability, qualities we consider non-negotiable.
Conformation and Working Ability: We believe that true versatility requires both the drive and ability to work, and the physical structure to sustain that work over a lifetime. Functional conformation means dogs with balance, stamina, and soundness—built to cover ground efficiently in the field, handle long days of work, and remain durable and athletic throughout their careers.
Equally important is working ability: dogs with the instinct, trainability, and resilience to succeed in demanding roles. We value intelligence, persistence, and environmental stability, paired with a strong desire to work in partnership with their handler while maintaining the independence needed to get the job done. These qualities not only produce dogs who excel in detection and fieldwork, but also ensure they are reliable, adaptable partners in any task set before them.
Health: At Vickery, we take every measure possible to ensure the long-term health and soundness of our dogs. Producing healthy dogs contributes directly to their longevity, which is why we adhere to all GSPCA breeding standards and conduct comprehensive health testing before every breeding. We also utilize available databases and resources to research potential health risks and make informed, responsible decisions.
Our dogs are best suited for homes where they can live as respected working partners with regular training and exercise. We seek working, hunting and performance homes for the majority of our puppies, though we also place dogs with active families who understand and can meet the needs of the breed. These are not “casual pet” homes where exercise consists of a short daily walk. Instead, they are environments where the dog is fully integrated into family life—sharing in daily activities, receiving consistent training, and having both their physical and mental energy needs met.
If you’re seeking a low-key companion that requires little engagement, our dogs are not the right match. But if you want a loyal partner to share in all of your adventures, training pursuits, and daily life, they may be the perfect fit.
Our Ideal German Shorthaired Pointer:
Is instantly recognizable as a German Shorthaired Pointer, with correct breed type and presence.
Possesses a functional, athletic structure built for stamina, durability, and long days of work.
Moves with efficiency, balance, and strength—an athlete in every sense.
Shows confidence and stability in any environment, whether in the home, the field, or while working in varied and demanding settings.
Has the drive, natural ability, and intelligence to excel in hunting, detection, and performance work, while remaining biddable and eager to partner with their handler.
Maintains the resilience to work tirelessly, yet has the steadiness to settle calmly when the job is done.
Demonstrates friendliness, sound judgment, and the social ability to function well with people and other dogs.
Is healthy, structurally sound, and free from chronic issues that would compromise quality of life or working ability.
Lives a long, vigorous life as both a trusted working partner and a devoted companion.
We follow the GSPCA Code of Ethics in all of our interactions—with fellow dog fanciers, our puppy buyers, and the general public. We strive to treat everyone fairly and to use each interaction as an opportunity to educate about the breed we love, canine behavior, responsible ownership, and sound animal husbandry.
