Breed Health Guide
German Shorthaired Pointer Health Issues & Vet Costs
GSPs are athletic, active dogs with moderate health risks. Their activity level also increases injury risk.
Most Common Health Issues
1. Hip Dysplasia
Joint malformation affecting many medium-to-large breeds. GSPs are moderately prone.
Estimated Cost: $500 - $7,000
Management: $500-$1,500/year. Surgery: $3,500-$7,000.
2. Bloat (GDV)
Deep-chested breeds like GSPs are at elevated bloat risk. Life-threatening emergency.
Estimated Cost: $3,000 - $7,500
Emergency surgery required. Fatal within hours without treatment.
3. Cancer
Higher than average rates of lymphoma and hemangiosarcoma.
Estimated Cost: $5,000 - $15,000+
4. ACL/CCL Tears
Knee ligament injuries from their high-intensity activity.
Estimated Cost: $3,500 - $6,500
40-60% tear the other knee within 2 years.
5. Entropion
Eyelids rolling inward, causing irritation. Common in the breed.
Estimated Cost: $1,000 - $2,500
6. Sports Injuries
Cuts, sprains, and fractures from fieldwork and intense activity.
Estimated Cost: $500 - $4,000 per incident
Lifetime Cost Estimate
- Hip dysplasia treatment$4,000
- ACL surgery (one knee)$5,000
- Sports injuries (lifetime)$3,000
- Estimated total$12,000+
Bloat or cancer would add $5,000-$15,000.