Why Laser Pointers Are a Bad Idea for Your GSP & Better Ways to Play!

TTR's Tips & Pointers Blog

Laser pointers aren’t for GSPs—leave that chase to the cats! 

Laser pointers might seem like a fun and easy way to entertain your German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP), but they can actually do more harm than good. While these energetic, high-drive dogs thrive on interactive play, laser pointers can create frustration, anxiety, and obsessive behaviors that are difficult to undo.  

Before you reach for that tiny red dot, let’s dive into why laser pointers are not a safe play option for your GSP and explore better ways to engage your pup in mentally and physically stimulating activities.  

Why Laser Pointers Are Harmful to GSPs

They Create Unnecessary Frustration

GSPs are bred for tracking, hunting, and retrieving—they have a natural instinct to chase and capture their target. The problem with a laser pointer is that there’s nothing to catch. No matter how fast they run or how hard they try, that little red dot remains just out of reach, leading to built-up frustration and anxiety.

Over time, this can cause a fixation on lights, reflections, or shadows, making everyday things like sunlight bouncing off a window or the glare from a phone screen a trigger for obsessive behavior.  

It Can Lead to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD) in Dogs

Many dogs who frequently play with laser pointers develop obsessive behaviors, constantly scanning for light patterns, shadows, or flickering movements. This compulsive fixation can interfere with their ability to relax, settle, and focus on normal activities.

For a high-energy breed like a GSP, this is particularly dangerous. Their working-dog mindset thrives on problem-solving and purpose-driven tasks—when their drive is misdirected toward an unwinnable chase, it can lead to long-term behavioral issues.  

It’s Not Mentally Satisfying 

GSPs need both physical and mental stimulation to be happy and balanced. When a dog plays with a ball or tug toy, there is a reward at the end—they get to capture, hold, or tug their "prey." A laser pointer doesn’t provide that physical fulfillment, leaving your dog mentally unsatisfied and often more hyper than when they started.  

Better Playtime Alternatives for Your GSP

The good news? There are plenty of safe, engaging ways to play with your German Shorthaired Pointer that will stimulate their mind and body without causing frustration or obsessive behaviors.  

Flirt Poles – A Moving Target to Chase 

A flirt pole is a long stick with a rope and toy attached to the end, designed to engage a dog’s natural prey drive. It allows your GSP to chase, pounce, and capture the toy in a way that feels satisfying. Best of all, you can control the speed and movement, making it a fantastic interactive game that helps burn energy quickly.  

💡 Pro Tip: Keep the flirt pole low to the ground and let your dog catch the toy frequently to avoid frustration.  

Scent Work & Nose Games 

GSPs are incredible scent hounds—why not put that natural talent to good use? Instead of chasing a meaningless dot, try scent work games like:  

• Hiding treats or favorite toys around the house or yard and encouraging your dog to find them.  
  
• Using snuffle mats to allow them to "hunt" for kibble or treats.  
  
• Introducing simple tracking exercises, where they follow a scent trail to a hidden reward.  

These activities engage their mind while providing an outlet for their instincts!  

Fetch – A Classic with a Purpose  

A game of fetch is a much healthier way to satisfy your GSP’s chase-and-retrieve instincts. Whether it’s a ball, bumper, or frisbee, this game provides exercise, mental focus, and reward fulfillment—all without the frustration of a never-ending chase.  

💡 Pro Tip: Use a **retrieving dummy or floating bumper if your GSP enjoys water play.  

Structured Training Sessions 

One of the best ways to channel your GSP’s energy is through training exercises that make them think and problem-solve. This could include:  

- Basic obedience refreshers (sit, stay, heel, recall)  
- Trick training (spin, shake, roll over, weave)  
- Sport training like agility, dock diving, or fieldwork  

Not only does this mentally exhaust them, but it also reinforces bonding and good behavior!  

Tug-of-War: Fun but with Caution

Tug-of-war can be a great game for building confidence, strengthening impulse control, and providing an energy outlet—but when it comes to GSPs, it needs to be played with caution and proper structure.  

Why You Shouldn't Tug Too Hard with a GSP  

German Shorthaired Pointers are natural retrievers, bred to carry game with a soft mouth. Engaging in full-force tug-of-war can strengthen their grip reflex and encourage a harder bite, which may negatively impact their retrieving ability. A GSP with a reinforced grip may be more likely to clamp down on game, bumpers, or toys in a way that isn’t desirable in the field.  

Guidelines for Safe Tug Play  

✔️ Use Commands: Always teach a solid "take it" and "drop it" command before engaging in tug.  
✔️ Use a Proper Tug Toy: Choose a soft but durable toy to avoid damage to their teeth.  
✔️ Keep Sessions Controlled:Tug gently and allow them to win occasionally to boost confidence.  
✔️ Avoid Tugging with Puppies: Young GSPs are still developing their mouths—skip tug until they are older.  
✔️ Monitor Behavior: If your GSP starts getting too intense or possessive, stop the game immediately.  

💡 If your GSP is being trained as a hunting companion, limit tugging altogether to preserve their soft mouth instinct for retrieving.  

Final Thoughts: Ditch the Laser, Choose Purposeful Play 

While laser pointers might seem like an easy way to tire out your GSP, they often do more harm than good. The lack of physical fulfillment, combined with the potential for anxiety and obsessive behaviors, makes them a poor choice for a high-energy, intelligent breed like the German Shorthaired Pointer.  

Instead, choose engaging, rewarding activities that allow your GSP to chase, catch, retrieve, and use their natural instincts in a healthy, fulfilling way. Whether it’s fetch, flirt poles, scent work, or structured tug, purposeful play will lead to a happier, well-balanced dog—and a stronger bond between you and your pup! 🐾  

📸 Featured Pup: TTR’s Valentine and her cat bestie Cage.