Catalburun (Turkish Pointer)

The Turkish Pointer is one of the rarest breed originated in south Anatolian city of Mersin in the Tarsus province (Turkey). Some researchers report only about 200 dogs of this particular breed. The distinct feature of the breed is fork-like nose, which gives the Turkish pointer its original name – Catalburun. Even though this dog hasn’t been officially acknowledged yet, it has very memorable and well-recognizable appearance and treasured as local partridge hunter. You should choose this breed if you like hunting or if you look for a smart, devoted and agile family companion.

According to The World Canine Organization (FCI) classification, the Catalburun may be attributed to the gundogs, which goal is to assist in hunting und retrieving game of any kind. Prominent traits of this group is a brisk temper and an ability to keep quiet while hunting. Dog can stand perfectly still when it notices its aim and points with its nose to the game. 
First description of the Psointer has been found in England near 1650. Definitely, this breed has a number of traits such as excellent ground and wind scent as well as typical hunting set that justify its right to be reckoned as a gundog.

History tells us, that the Catalburun has been developed for many years by the local population in Tarus province and villages around it. The breed has been habituating there since 1930s.
Close relation has been determined between the Spanish Pacon Navarro and the Catalburun, mostly by resembling nose design and overall look. This connection can be traced back to the time when both Spain and Tarus were ruled by the Abbasid-Umayyad since XVIII century and then ottoman era.

The Calatalburun is a calm, loyal and even-tempered breed. Due to its hunting skills, this dog can become an outstanding companion for your hunting experience. Acute ground and wind tracking abilities allow to use it effectively for rescue operation, search for narcotic and as a police dog.

It gets along with children and will by no means bite one, even if child hurts the dog. Another dog may become a problem, since the Catalburun becomes really dominant and aggressive, when someone violates its boarders. This makes it a useful guard dog. It fully obeys its owner but tends to be aggressive towards strangers.

The Turkish pointer can live indoors as well as in little garden. It won’t disturb your neighbors, as it keeps quiet most of the time. At the same time this breed hasn’t been adapted for life in an apartment. It suits you if you want to have energetic and rare dog.

The most common problems for the breed include:

• canine hip dysplasia;
• thyroid problems;
• skin problems.

The Catalburun is a short-haired dog, so the owner won’t have any trouble with its coat. Taking into account high energy level of this breed (which implies a lot of outdoors activities), regular bath can become a must.

The Catalburun is really susceptible to training. It can be considered as substantial advantage for the breed, which is destined for hunting. Puppies are already capable of taking part in hunting at the age of 6-7 month, which indicates the breeds’ high intelligence and receptivity to your lessons.

The Catulburun requires a pretty large amount of exercise because of its active nature. 1-hour spent outdoors playing, running is a minimum requirement that will help your dog to stay fit and healthy.