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 producing exceptional hunting dogs to developing German Shorthaired Pointers capable of excelling in demanding detection roles, where steadiness, environmental stability, and trainability are paramount. These same qualities also produce confident, resilient family companions who are eager to work alongside their owners. Dependable in both the home and the field, they bring loyalty, stability, and joy to everyday life.

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, allowing us to devote full attention to the development, care, and early socialization of every puppy. Our dogs are proven through rigorous evaluation in AKC Hunt Tests, the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA) testing system, AKC Conformation, and professional detection certifications, demonstrating the instincts, structure, trainability, and stability we value in our breeding program.

We take our role as stewards of the breed seriously. Continuing education, mentorship, and collaboration within the German Shorthaired Pointer community are central to our philosophy and help guide every breeding decision we make. Our goal is to produce German Shorthaired Pointers with the versatility, steadiness, and drive to excel as detection dogs, exceptional field partners, well rounded versatile athletes, and devoted family companions.

We breed for Temperament, Working Ability, Conformation, and General Health.

Temperament: We believe that sound temperament is the cornerstone of the German Shorthaired Pointer. Our breeding decisions prioritize versatility, stability, 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 strive to produce self assured dogs that are calm and affectionate in the home while remaining adaptable in a wide variety of environments. They are steady under pressure, thoughtful in their work, and capable of independent problem solving when the task requires it. Because of their intelligence and initiative, they thrive with owners who provide clear leadership, thoughtful training, and appropriate outlets for their drive.

The versatile pointing dog should 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 fundamental to the breed and non-negotiable in our breeding program.

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 balance, stamina, and soundness — dogs built to cover ground efficiently in the field, handle long days of work, and remain durable and athletic throughout their lives.

Equally important is working ability: dogs with the instinct, intelligence, trainability, and resilience to excel in demanding roles. We value dogs that are environmentally stable, persistent, and eager to work in partnership with their handler while maintaining the confidence and independence to solve problems when the task requires it. These qualities produce dogs capable of excelling in the field, professional detection, and a wide range of performance pursuits, while remaining adaptable, dependable partners in everyday life.

Health& Lifestyle: At Vickery, we take every measure possible to promote the long term health and soundness of our dogs. Producing healthy dogs contributes directly to their longevity, which is why we adhere to the German Shorthaired Pointer Club of America (GSPCA) breeding recommendations and complete comprehensive health testing before every breeding. We also utilize available databases, pedigrees, and other resources to evaluate potential health risks and make informed, responsible breeding decisions.

Our dogs are best suited for homes where they are valued as active partners and integral members of the family. We prioritize working, hunting, and performance homes for many of our puppies, while also placing dogs with active families who understand and can meet the needs of the breed. These are not homes where exercise consists of a short daily walk. Instead, we seek owners who are committed to providing regular training, meaningful physical activity, mental enrichment, and opportunities to share in everyday life.

If you're looking for a low maintenance companion that requires little engagement, our dogs are unlikely to be the right fit. But if you're looking for a loyal partner to share in your adventures, training goals, and everyday life, they may be exactly what you're looking for.