What makes the German Wirehaired Pointer Unique?
A sturdily built hunter, the German wirehaired pointer should be able to hunt all day through all types of cover. It is slightly longer than it is tall, enabling the gait to be free and smooth. The weather-resistant, straight wiry coat is an essential breed characteristic. The outer coat is about 1 to 2 inches long, long enough to protect against brambles but not so long that the outline of the dog is obscured. The eyebrows, beard and whiskers are of medium length. The undercoat is thick in winter for warmth but thin in summer. The German wirehaired pointer is both a rugged bird dog and amiable companion. It has the energy to hunt for hours, so it must be given a daily outlet lest it becomes destructive. It is a responsive breed, although it tends to be stubborn. It retains a guarding instinct, so it is often aloof, even protective, toward strangers as well as strange dogs. It is generally good, if sometimes overly boisterous, with children. It is ideal for the outdoor-oriented person wanting a tireless, weather-proof, intelligent partner.
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Is the German Wirehaired Pointer Right For You?
Loyal and affectionate, the German Wirehaired Pointer craves human companionship and bonds closely with its “people.” A high energy and high drive breed, the Wirehair must receive regular exercise or have a job to do; otherwise their creativity and independence may get them into trouble! Although they shed lightly year-round, Wirehairs with a correct coat require only minimal grooming. If you are considering purchasing a German Wirehaired Pointer puppy, learn more. *Sporting Group; AKC recognized in 1959.
*Ideal size: 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder.
*Hunting dog.
In 5 Words
- Lovingly
- Independent
- Amiable
- Responsive
- Easily trainable
Characteristics
Learn About the German Wirehaired Pointer
Description
The German Wirehaired Pointer is of medium to large size and is muscular and athletic. They typically weigh about 25 to 35 kilos and stand from around 60 to 66 cm at the shoulder. As their name implies, a GWP’s coat is wiry and is weather resistant as well as somewhat water resistant. Their undercoat is dense in the winter and thins out considerably in the summer. The wiry coat is an advantage for dogs working in heavy cover in pursuit of game. The coat colour is of a combination of liver and white or pure liver.
Short History of the German Shorthaired Pointer
Originally referred to as Deutsch Kurzhaar, the German Shorthaired Pointer is known for its versatile hunting capabilities. In the early 17th century, the Spanish Pointer was crossbred with the Hannover Hound, which produced a dog that was capable of trailing both mammals and birds.
Further breeding with the English Pointer gave rise to controversies among some of the breeders, but eventually the German Shorthaired Pointer was created. The breed first entered the United States in the 1920s, later being recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1930. Today the breed is regarded for its ability to easily point, trail, and retrieve its target.
Temperament
An intelligent and active breed, the German Wirehaired Pointer is affectionate and likes to please its owner. At heart, it’s a work dog that needs plenty of activity, and it can get bored easily and be stubborn. Be sure to hang out with your dog and give it plenty of attention, as the German Wirehaired Pointer can suffer from separation anxiety.
You’ll find that the German Wirehaired Pointer is loyal, but can also be jealous and protective. This breed will be loving towards family, but can be dominant when interacting with other animals and dogs. Because it is unsure of strangers, you’ll need early and persistent socialization to prevent shyness.
Caring for Your German Wirehaired Pointer
General Health
Overall very healthy. The biggest problem with this breed is hip dysplasia, so both parents of your puppy should be OFA checked. Hypothyroidism is also a problem that may in turn cause some skin problems in this otherwise healthy breed.
Grooming & Bathing
The German Wirehaired Pointer is an average shedder. The coat of the dog should be brushed at least 2-3 times a week to maintain a health looking coat. It should be bathed only when necessary and must be dried properly after each bath. It is prone to infections of the ear so ears should be cleaned regularly. The toenails should be clipped regularly to prevent injuries while working out.
Exercise & Training
It is a high energy breed which needs plenty of daily exercise. Long walks several times a day are necessary for emotional well being of the dog. The walks should be supplemented with jogging or running in an open area frequently to allow the dog to release its pent up energy. However, it should not be let off the leash in an unsecured area because of the dog’s innate hunting instincts.
German Wirehaired Pointer Picture Gallery
