[4][5][6][7] In his Cynographia Britannica, published in 1800, Sydenham Edwards states that the "Spanish Pointer was introduced to this country [England] by a Portugal Merchant, at a very modern period, and was first used by a reduced Baron, of the name of Bichell, who lived in Norfolk, and could shoot flying".

[5][11] A compendium of sources state that in England early Pointers were crossed with other breeds to impart certain desirable traits, including setters, bloodhounds and foxhounds, with some mention of Bull Terriers and bulldogs.

[4][5][6][12] Early Pointers were comparatively heavy, ponderous dogs able to hold a steady point whilst the hunter readied his gun.

With the steady improvement of firearms throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, faster and more agile dogs were sought so Greyhounds were increasingly introduced to add speed.

[7][6][10] The breed standard describes them as having a long, muscular, slightly arched neck; long, sloping shoulders that are well laid back; a chest wide enough for plenty of heart; straight and firm forelegs with good bone; muscular hindquarters; oval shaped feet; and a medium-length tail that is thick at the root.

[6][13] Their coat is short haired, fine, hard, smooth and evenly distributed; they are usually bi-coloured, white with lemon, orange, liver or black coloured patches, whilst rare tri-coloured and self-coloured dogs are also known.

[2][3] When compared to images of pointers from the 19th century the modern breed is a much finer dog, reflecting inclusion of greyhound blood.

[1][5] Additionally, compared to the European pointing breeds the Pointer is typically faster when working and quarters further in search for game.