German Wirehaired Pointer Dog Breed Information and Care

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a versatile hunting dog that's also a loving family pet. They originated in Germany in the late 1800s.

This breed is known for its distinctive wirehaired coat, which requires regular grooming to prevent matting. They shed heavily, so be prepared for a lot of dog hair.

German Wirehaired Pointers are energetic dogs that need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. A daily walk or run is a must, and they also love to play fetch and engage in other high-energy activities.

With proper care and attention, German Wirehaired Pointers can live up to 12-14 years, making them a long-term companion for many families.

The German Wirehaired Pointer has a rich history that dates back to 1870. Its origins can be traced to Germany, where hunters wanted a dog that could hunt on rough terrain.

In the late 1800s, breeders combined the German Pointer, Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, Pudelpointer, Deutscher-Kurzhaar, and Stichelhaar to create a wire-coated dog that could work closely as a gundog and search, locate, and point upland game.

The breed was developed to be a versatile hunting dog that could work on both feather and fur game with great skill, retrieve waterfowl, and be a devoted companion and family pet. It was also bred to be a watchdog for its owner's property.

The German Wirehaired Pointer was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1959. This recognition came after the breed was introduced to the United States in the 1920s.

To create a robust dog capable of hunting various game on any type of terrain, breeders combined the finest qualities of the Pointer, Poodle, and Foxhound. This resulted in an all-purpose dog with exceptional pointing and retrieving abilities, both on land and in water, regardless of weather conditions or environmental challenges.

The breed was developed to be slightly larger than the German Shorthaired Pointer, with a longer body and variations in head shape and temperament. It was also bred to be hardy and dedicated, with a strong instinct to respond to a hunter's needs.

Here are some key characteristics of the German Wirehaired Pointer breed:

The German Wirehaired Pointer requires a significant amount of training and exercise, making it an ideal breed for experienced dog owners who can provide the necessary attention and stimulation.

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a medium to large-sized dog with a distinctive appearance. They have a well-muscled build and a sturdy frame.

Their coat is perhaps their most notable feature, with a wiry, weather-resistant texture that's perfect for withstanding the elements. The undercoat is dense and insulating, while the outer coat is straight, harsh, and wiry.

Here are some key physical characteristics to keep in mind:

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a well-muscled, medium to large-sized dog with a distinctive appearance. It's a balanced dog with a sturdy build, and its most distinguishing characteristics are its weather-resistant, wire-like coat and facial furnishings.

The breed's wiry coat is its most distinctive feature, and it's a must-have for a correct type. The coat is weather resistant and water-repellent, with a dense undercoat that insulates against the cold in winter but becomes less noticeable in summer.

The German Wirehaired Pointer comes in liver, liver and white, liver roan, and other color patterns. The head and ears are generally liver in color, with no ticking or roaning. Black used to be undesirable, but a black and white color is now being accepted outside of the show ring.

Consider reading: Bernese Mountain Dog Coat

The breed's coat has a unique texture, with coarse, wiry hair that measures one to two inches in length. It's straight, harsh, and lies flat, with a dense undercoat that provides great insulation during the cold months.

Here are the key characteristics of the German Wirehaired Pointer's coat:

The German Wirehaired Pointer's beard and bushy eyebrows are not just for show; they offer protection for the face and eyes from scratches and injuries. Regular brushing helps keep the coat clean and manage shedding, which is light year-round.

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a sturdy breed, with males typically reaching a shoulder height of 24 to 26 inches.

Their height can vary, but females are generally smaller, measuring no less than 22 inches in height.

Males usually weigh between 60 and 70 pounds, giving them a robust build.

Their weight can vary, but this range gives you a good idea of what to expect.

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a generally healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain diseases and conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help maintain your German Wirehair's overall well-being.

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, potentially causing pain and lameness. Regular screening for hip dysplasia through X-rays can help identify affected dogs.

Some common health issues in German Wirehaired Pointers include hip and elbow dysplasia, cataracts, entropion, and Von Willebrand’s Disease. These conditions can be hereditary, so it's essential to work with responsible breeders who have had their breeding stock tested for these issues.

Here are some common health issues in German Wirehaired Pointers:

To keep your German Wirehaired Pointer healthy, make sure to provide regular exercise, a balanced diet, and plenty of attention and interaction. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle can help maintain your German Wirehair's overall well-being.

German wirehaired pointers are generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain diseases and conditions. They have a relatively low incidence of hip and elbow dysplasia compared to other large breeds.

Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit properly, potentially causing pain and lameness. Regular screening for hip dysplasia through X-rays can help identify affected dogs, and breeding dogs should be tested and certified as free from hip dysplasia.

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, irritating the eyes and affecting vision. Surgical correction is typically necessary, but it is recommended to wait until the dog reaches adulthood to ensure optimal results.

Cataracts manifest as cloudy spots on the lens of the eye and can lead to vision impairment or loss. Regular eye examinations by a veterinary ophthalmologist can help identify hereditary cataracts, and surgical removal may be necessary.

Additional reading: Bernese Mountain Dog Hip Dysplasia

Von Willebrand’s Disease is an inherited blood disorder that affects the blood’s ability to clot, resulting in excessive bleeding. While there is no cure, blood transfusions from normal dogs can be performed, and research for alternative treatments is ongoing.

To maintain your German wirehaired pointer’s overall well-being, regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy lifestyle are essential.

Here are some common health issues that German wirehaired pointers may be prone to:

Exercise is a must for German Wirehaired Pointers, with daily activities such as hunting, walking, or running providing them with the physical and mental stimulation they need.

To fulfill their physical needs, German Wirehaired Pointers require substantial daily exercise, even if they're not engaging in hunting activities. They thrive on human companionship and interaction, so don't be surprised if they follow you everywhere.

A secure area with a fence at least six feet high and resistant to digging or escaping is essential to prevent them from jumping out. Providing a covered dog run can be an ideal outdoor shelter option for them.

Related reading: Rhodesian Ridgeback for Hunting

Regular grooming is also crucial for German Wirehaired Pointers. Brush their coat weekly to remove loose fur and prevent tangles, and bathe them roughly once a month, depending on how dirty they get.

To keep their coat healthy, brush their teeth daily, trim their nails every month on average, and clean their ears at least weekly for wax buildup, dirt, and irritation.

Here's a quick rundown of their grooming needs:

A balanced, nutritional diet is also essential for German Wirehaired Pointers. Feed them a quality canine diet that's nutritionally balanced, and consult with your vet to determine the best feeding plan for your individual dog.

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a loyal and loving breed, but they can be aloof with strangers. They form strong bonds with their family and may pick one person as their special person.

They are highly active dogs that require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. A securely fenced yard is a must to keep them safe while they run and play.

Their high energy level can make them too rambunctious for very young children, but they are generally good with kids. However, it's essential to supervise interactions between kids and pets to ensure everyone stays safe.

They are highly trainable and thrive on structure and clear communication. Using positive reinforcement and firm "No"s can yield great results in training and obedience.

Their intelligence and trainability make them excellent companions for active families who enjoy outdoor activities. They also make great watchdogs, alerting with barks when unfamiliar individuals approach their territory.

Here are some key traits of the German Wirehaired Pointer's personality and temperament: