Turkish Pointer
Description
Ever heard of a dog with a split nose? The Turkish Pointer, also called the Catalburun, sports a unique double nose that’s rare worldwide. This breed hails from the Tarsus region in Turkey and is mostly known there as a skilled hunting companion, especially for partridges. It's one of the rarest breeds you’ll find, with a striking look thanks to its dense, short coat that comes in colors like Yellow & White, Red & White, and even Tri-Color patterns. What makes the Turkish Pointer special beyond its nose? It’s calm and steady, making it a good family dog if trained right. They’re protective and need early socialization to keep their strong prey drive in check. Expect a dog that’s alert but not overly noisy, and one that thrives with consistent exercise and mental challenges.
Grooming
The Turkish Pointer’s short, dense coat needs regular care to stay healthy. Brush your dog twice a week to keep shedding under control, but during spring and fall, daily brushing is a must because the undercoat blows heavily. Use an undercoat rake on dense areas to remove loose fur without damaging the coat. Bathing every 6 to 8 weeks is ideal, but make sure to dry thoroughly to avoid skin issues. Here’s a quick checklist: - Brush 2× weekly; daily during heavy shedding - Use an undercoat rake for thick areas - Bathe every 6–8 weeks - Never shave the double coat—it protects skin and fur - Check for dirt and debris after outdoor adventures Pro tip: Schedule a professional de-shed treatment every 6 to 8 weeks to keep your Turkish Pointer’s coat in top shape and reduce loose hair around the house.
Learn the Dense routine:
→ Complete Dense Grooming Guide
Walking
How much exercise does a Turkish Pointer need? Aim for about 85 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions. This breed loves to explore scents and stay active, so a mix of brisk walks and sniff breaks works best. Start with a morning walk of 40 minutes to burn off energy, then a 45-minute evening stroll to wind down. These sessions help channel their natural hunting instincts and keep them balanced. Example routine: - Morning: 40-minute walk with some off-leash scent games in a secure area - Evening: 45-minute leash walk around the neighborhood with some obedience drills Keeping walks varied and mentally stimulating is key. Turkish Pointers enjoy challenges, so add in some scent tracking or light fetch to keep things interesting.
Boarding
When boarding a Turkish Pointer, crate size matters. A 42 to 48-inch crate gives enough room for comfort without feeling too large. This breed enjoys active play, so plan for two energetic play sessions daily, plus scent or brain games to keep their minds sharp. Avoid small-animal toys since their strong prey drive might trigger unwanted behavior. Staff should note the Turkish Pointer’s protective nature and ensure secure fencing in play areas. They respond well to consistent routines and gentle handling. Enrichment activities like scent puzzles or hide-and-seek games help reduce stress and keep them engaged while away from home. A calm, structured environment makes boarding a positive experience for this unique breed.