What You Need To Know Before Getting A German Shorthaired Pointer

CLAREMONT (CBSLA.com) — "As a fan of the breed, I'm excited," said Greg Williams, a day after a 3-year-old German shorthaired pointer became the nation's top dog.

The title of "best in show" was bestowed upon C.J., a dog from Temecula, during the Westminster Kennel Club dog show at Madison Square Garden in New York.

"It's a great opportunity for people to see what we like about the breed," said Williams of the breed, which is gaining popularity thanks to the prestigious award.

Williams is with the California German Shorthaired Pointer Rescue and says buyers beware:

"They are bred to basically run for eight hours and then come in and be a companion in the evening," he said.

The dogs are active and known for hunting but also need mental stimulation as they are smart dogs.

"They need that exercise. They have to have that and if they don't get it, then some behaviors can develop," he said.

The high energy dogs are known to chew and dig their way into things if their active lifestyle is disrupted.

Williams says more than 10 years ago, another GSP was awarded "best in show" and that's when the rescue group became busy.

Owners say the best type of owner for the GSP breed are those who are also active themselves.

"A walk around the block is a warm-up for most GSPs," he said. "I'm talking going on a hike in evening for a couple of miles or running three to four miles a day. That's really what is going to keep them in line."