Discover Everything About German Longhair
Learn about the breed characteristics, health, history, and find trusted breeders
At a glance
German Longhair overview
The essentials — key facts, traits, and health priorities — before you dive deeper.
Health grade
Relative to other breeds
As a robust hunting dog, the Deutsch Langhaar is generally in good health, though the breed association mandates numerous health tests. Joint conditions such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), as well as incurable epilepsy, are the most well-known risks, which are, however, well-controlled through consistent selection. Buyers should insist on seeing complete health reports for both parents to minimize the risk of these hereditary conditions.
Lifespan
12–14 yrs
Height
60–66 cm
Weight
20–30 kg
Practical
- Puppy price: 1,200 – 2,500 €
- Coat: Long, dense, light undercoat
- Origin: Germany
Typical coat colors
- Brown mold
- black mold or brown uniform
Temperament
Daily life
What matters most
Especially with a German Longhair, choosing the right breeder is the single most important decision you'll make. Serious breeders consistently test the parents for inherited conditions, prioritize healthy early socialization, and stay accountable long after handover. A cheap puppy without health screening tends to become the most expensive dog later on.
See HonestDog breeder standards →Is the German Longhair right for you?
The Deutsch Langhaar is a powerful, water-loving Vorstehhund (pointing dog) — bred as a versatile all-around hunting dog for field, forest, and water, who needs close collaboration just as much as real hunting work.
Perfect for you if:
- You use him for hunting or, alternatively, work at a high level in dummy sports — a simple walk will never be enough to tire out this all-around working dog.
- You live in a rural area, ideally with a garden, and can offer him daily direct access to wide-open natural spaces.
- You have dog experience and can guide his deeply ingrained hunting instinct in a confident, proactive, and gentle way.
- You invest a lot of time in joint training, as he is passionate about constant, active cooperation with his human.
Less ideal if:
- You expect him to ignore game trails — he is a highly passionate hunting tool whose brain switches to autopilot when he spots game, unless he has perfect training.
- You live in a city or an apartment where real off-leash exercise and access to nature are constant logistical hurdles.
- You are looking for an uncomplicated 'tag-along' dog who will wait patiently at home for hours after a short walk.
The real vibes check
A well-exercised Deutsch Langhaar will lie in front of the fireplace like a heavy, soft rug in the evening — but outside, he transforms into an explosive athlete who scans every bush. You aren't getting a pure family companion, but a highly specialized hunting partner. If you share and guide his passion, you have a loyal partner; if you ignore it, he will definitely find his own job.
Breed Profile
The German Longhair is an impressive hunting dog with an elegant and proud appearance, which is emphasized by its long, shiny coat. He belongs to FCI Group 7 of pointing dogs and is very valued in Germany because of his versatility and endurance. The dog has a well-proportioned physique with strong bone structure and musculature, making him appear both powerful and graceful. His eyes are large and expressive, usually dark brown, and radiate calm and intelligence. The ears are medium-sized, set wide and high, and hang loosely on the sides of the head. The Longhair, as the name suggests, has long, dense fur with a light undercoat. The hair is straight and must not be curled or wavy. The coat color can vary from brown roan, black roan to uniform brown. White is always associated with mold or plaque. Often the head is solid color and the body with "plates" or "points" covered. The German Longhair also has long "tails" on the ears and a full, bushy tail. The breed is not differentiated into performance and show lines as it was traditionally bred as a working dog and its working qualities are still highly valued.
| Height | 60 - 63 cm (Female), 63 - 66 cm (Male) |
| Weight | 20 - 28 kg (Female), 22 - 30 kg (Male) |
| Life Expectancy | 12 - 14 years |
| Character | Versatile, gentle, balanced |
| Coat | Long, dense, light undercoat |
| Coat Color | Brown mold, black mold or brown uniform |
| Price | 1200 - 2500 € |
Health
Robust
Health grade
As a robust hunting dog, the Deutsch Langhaar is generally in good health, though the breed association mandates numerous health tests. Joint conditions such as hip dysplasia (HD) and elbow dysplasia (ED), as well as incurable epilepsy, are the most well-known risks, which are, however, well-controlled through consistent selection. Buyers should insist on seeing complete health reports for both parents to minimize the risk of these hereditary conditions.
Grade is relative to other breeds — AI-generated by our veterinary-genetics model.
In daily life this can mean
With joint-friendly rearing during the first year of life and occasional check-ups for his eyes, your dog will usually stay fit and active for a long time.
The breeder's role
Reputable breeders have the hips, elbows, shoulders, and eyes of the parent animals thoroughly checked to preserve the breed's healthy traits.
Frequently asked questions about the German Longhair
Is a German Longhair the right dog for me?
The German Longhair is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. Research the temperament, grooming needs, and space requirements before deciding.
How long does a German Longhair live?
The average life expectancy of a German Longhair is 12-14 years. With proper care and regular vet visits, your dog can live a long, healthy life.
How much grooming does a German Longhair need?
German Longhair grooming requirements include regular brushing, nail trimming, and dental care. HonestDog provides detailed grooming tips for every breed.
Is a German Longhair good for families with children?
The German Longhair can be a great family dog. Proper training and socialization are key. HonestDog provides family suitability information for every breed.
German Longhair Breeders Near You
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Guides & Resources
Guides, checklists, and breed profiles — so you can make a well-informed decision.