They are not typically territorial but can be reserved with strangers. They are very good with children and fit in well with family life generally. Pups can be somewhat boisterous, and their long legs make them appear somewhat clumsy in a charming way as they grow. They will bark at suspicious noises, but are not a great watchdog breed. While Pointers were bred to be hunting dogs, they are perfectly content to be given adequate exercise by other means. A good-sized, securely fenced yard is a must to keep a Pointer safe, since they are bred to hunt and pursue scents a good distance from their person.