The German Shorthaired Pointer is a versatile hunter, an all-purpose gun dog capable of high performance in field and water, and the judgment of Shorthairs in the show ring reflects this basic characteristic. A dog in hard and lean field condition is not to be penalized; however, overly fat or poorly muscled dogs are to be penalized. A dog well balanced in all points is preferable to one with outstanding good qualities and defects. Grace of outline, clean-cut head, sloping shoulders, deep chest, powerful back, strong quarters, good bone composition, adequate muscle, well carried tail and taut coat produce a look of nobility and indicate a heritage of purposefully conducted breeding.