Dog Breeds - German Wirehaired Pointer

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed tends to exhibit towards family members or familiar individuals can vary significantly. While some breeds may display aloofness towards everyone but their owner, others have a naturally friendly disposition and treat everyone they know as their closest friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, can vary among different breeds. It is crucial to always supervise interactions between dogs and young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The level of general friendliness a breed displays towards other dogs can vary. While it's crucial to always provide supervision and guidance during interactions and introductions between dogs, certain breeds tend to have a more innate inclination to get along with other dogs both in home settings and in public.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed is expected to shed can vary significantly. Breeds that shed heavily will generally require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair and they are more likely to pose challenges for individuals with certain allergies. Additionally, owning a breed that sheds heavily may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the living spaces tidy.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
The grooming requirements, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance, can vary greatly among different breeds. When considering a breed, it is essential to assess the time, patience and budget you have available for this type of care. Some breeds have coats that require frequent grooming due to their length, thickness or texture. These breeds may need regular brushing to prevent matting as well as professional grooming to maintain their coat's appearance and health. This can incur additional costs and time commitments.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The amount of drooling a breed tends to exhibit can vary significantly. If you consider yourself a neat freak or prefer to maintain a clean and dry environment breeds that are prone to excessive drooling may not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Wiry, Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
When it comes to stranger interactions, the level of friendliness displayed by a particular breed can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved and cautious around unfamiliar individuals irrespective of the surroundings. On the other hand, there are breeds that exhibit a cheerful demeanor and eagerly embrace the opportunity to meet new people whenever they come across them.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed maintains towards play, even beyond the puppy stage, can vary. Certain breeds exhibit a lasting desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their adult years. They find joy in interactive games and are always up for a play session. On the other hand, some breeds are content with spending most of their time lounging on the couch and enjoying relaxed moments with their human companions. Their preference leans towards a more laid-back approach to play.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds are more inclined to notify their owners about the presence of strangers. These breeds tend to be highly alert and responsive to potential threats, whether it's the mailman at the door or a squirrel spotted through the window. They are more likely to warm up to unfamiliar individuals who enter their home and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The ability of a breed to handle change can vary widely. Some breeds are known to be more adaptable and flexible, handling changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather and daily schedules with relative ease. These breeds tend to be more resilient and able to adjust to new environments and situations without significant distress.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things can vary greatly between breeds. Certain breeds show a strong desire to please their owners and consistently seek opportunities to make them proud. These breeds are generally more receptive to training and eagerly engage in learning sessions.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of each breed can differ significantly. High energy breeds are always enthusiastic and ready for their next adventure. They are full of energy and spend their day engaged in activities like running, jumping and playing. Regular exercise is crucial for these breeds to keep them physically active and mentally stimulated.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization in a breed, whether through barks or howls, can vary. Certain breeds tend to bark at every passer-by or even at birds glimpsed through the window. They have a more alert and vocal nature readily expressing themselves through barking. There are breeds that only bark in specific situations. They are more selective in their vocalizations and typically reserve barking for particular triggers or perceived threats. These breeds are generally more discerning and may not engage in excessive barking.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
Providing adequate mental stimulation is essential for keeping a breed happy and healthy. Purpose-bred dogs, with their innate qualities like decision-making, problem-solving and concentration often require specific mental challenges to stay engaged. Without sufficient mental exercise, they may seek out their own activities to keep their minds occupied. Unfortunately, these self-created projects may not align with your preferences.

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CARING WITH FAMILY Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed tends to exhibit towards family members or familiar individuals can vary significantly. While some breeds may display aloofness towards everyone but their owner, others have a naturally friendly disposition and treat everyone they know as their closest friend.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience a breed exhibits towards children, as well as their overall family-friendly nature, can vary among different breeds. It is crucial to always supervise interactions between dogs and young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The level of general friendliness a breed displays towards other dogs can vary. While it's crucial to always provide supervision and guidance during interactions and introductions between dogs, certain breeds tend to have a more innate inclination to get along with other dogs both in home settings and in public.
SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere
The amount of fur and hair a breed is expected to shed can vary significantly. Breeds that shed heavily will generally require more frequent brushing to manage the loose hair and they are more likely to pose challenges for individuals with certain allergies. Additionally, owning a breed that sheds heavily may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the living spaces tidy.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily
The grooming requirements, including bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance, can vary greatly among different breeds. When considering a breed, it is essential to assess the time, patience and budget you have available for this type of care. Some breeds have coats that require frequent grooming due to their length, thickness or texture. These breeds may need regular brushing to prevent matting as well as professional grooming to maintain their coat's appearance and health. This can incur additional costs and time commitments.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel
The amount of drooling a breed tends to exhibit can vary significantly. If you consider yourself a neat freak or prefer to maintain a clean and dry environment breeds that are prone to excessive drooling may not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT STYLES GUIDE
Wiry, Double
COAT SPECTRUM
Medium
FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend
When it comes to stranger interactions, the level of friendliness displayed by a particular breed can vary. Certain breeds tend to be more reserved and cautious around unfamiliar individuals irrespective of the surroundings. On the other hand, there are breeds that exhibit a cheerful demeanor and eagerly embrace the opportunity to meet new people whenever they come across them.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop
The level of enthusiasm a breed maintains towards play, even beyond the puppy stage, can vary. Certain breeds exhibit a lasting desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or fetch throughout their adult years. They find joy in interactive games and are always up for a play session. On the other hand, some breeds are content with spending most of their time lounging on the couch and enjoying relaxed moments with their human companions. Their preference leans towards a more laid-back approach to play.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant
Certain breeds are more inclined to notify their owners about the presence of strangers. These breeds tend to be highly alert and responsive to potential threats, whether it's the mailman at the door or a squirrel spotted through the window. They are more likely to warm up to unfamiliar individuals who enter their home and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable
The ability of a breed to handle change can vary widely. Some breeds are known to be more adaptable and flexible, handling changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather and daily schedules with relative ease. These breeds tend to be more resilient and able to adjust to new environments and situations without significant distress.
OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things can vary greatly between breeds. Certain breeds show a strong desire to please their owners and consistently seek opportunities to make them proud. These breeds are generally more receptive to training and eagerly engage in learning sessions.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of each breed can differ significantly. High energy breeds are always enthusiastic and ready for their next adventure. They are full of energy and spend their day engaged in activities like running, jumping and playing. Regular exercise is crucial for these breeds to keep them physically active and mentally stimulated.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal
Medium
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Happy to Lounge Needs a Job or Activity
Providing adequate mental stimulation is essential for keeping a breed happy and healthy. Purpose-bred dogs, with their innate qualities like decision-making, problem-solving and concentration often require specific mental challenges to stay engaged. Without sufficient mental exercise, they may seek out their own activities to keep their minds occupied. Unfortunately, these self-created projects may not align with your preferences.
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About The Breed

The noble German wirehaired pointer is a versatile and robust gundog that thrives on outdoor activities, thanks to its sporty weatherproof coat and can-do attitude. This breed is not only adept in the field, but also serves as an eager, affectionate, and entertaining family companion within the home. Standing tall reaching heights of up to 26 inches at the shoulder, the German wirehaired pointer is slightly taller and heavier than its close relative, the German shorthaired pointer. Their well-balanced, muscular and resilient build enables them to navigate various terrains tirelessly.

The breed's harsh wire coat provides protection against thorny underbrush and inclement weather, while their shaggy beard and eyebrows contribute to their intelligent and worldly expression. It's crucial to note that this breed has a great need for outdoor running and exploration. As one experienced owner aptly stated, "This breed will not be happy spending all day on the couch." German Wirehaired Pointers are smart and enthusiastic but their independent and inquisitive nature may pose challenges for novice owners. However, they make an excellent choice for individuals seeking a loving, sports-oriented, and devoted companion.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A GERMAN WIREHAIRED POINTER

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your German Wirehaired Pointer: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	Although German Wirehaired Pointers are typically healthy dogs, there are certain health and genetic screening considerations that are important to this breed. Responsible breeders take the initiative to test their breeding stock for conditions that the breed may be prone to. They also maintain open communication with other dedicated breeders collaborating to promote breed health and preserve the distinctive qualities of the German wirehaired pointer. Regular monitoring of a German Wirehair's ears is necessary to identify and address any signs of infection promptly. Additionally, it is recommended to maintain good dental hygiene by regularly brushing the dog's teeth using toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs. Routine visits to the veterinarian for checkups and appropriate parasite control measures further contribute to ensuring a long and healthy life for the dog. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Hip Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation Elbow Evaluation Cardiac Exam Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	The German wirehaired pointer has a harsh wiry coat that requires relatively low maintenance. A weekly grooming session using a comb and a soft slicker brush can help remove dirt and loose hair keeping the dog's coat in good condition and maintaining their appearance. It is essential to regularly inspect the dog's ears and clean them if necessary. Soft gauze and an ear-cleaning solution recommended by the veterinarian can be used for this purpose. Cleaning the ears ensures they remain free from dirt, debris and potential infections. Trimming the dog's nails regularly is also important for their comfort and mobility. Overly long nails can cause discomfort, difficulties in walking and running. Trimming the nails helps prevent such issues and promotes the dog's overall well-being. By following these basic grooming practices German Wirehaired Pointers can maintain a neat and healthy appearance, while also minimizing any potential discomfort or complications.

Exercise

	German Wirehaired Pointers are energetic sporting canines that relish engaging in outdoor pursuits alongside humans making them excellent companions for long strolls or hikes. For their overall well-being and contentment, it is essential to provide them with daily exercise such as extended walks and playtime with their owner. Additionally, this breed benefits from engaging in various activities such as hunting, obedience training, tracking, agility, rally and more, which promote both mental and physical stimulation, creating enjoyable experiences for both the dog and their owner.

Training

	German Wirehaired Pointers exhibit high intelligence, responsiveness and a strong desire to please making them typically easy to train. It is advisable to start with early socialization and puppy training classes, as they contribute to the development of a well-rounded and well-behaved companion. This breed is known for its intelligence, versatility, athleticism and exceptional abilities in various canine sports and activities. German Wirehairs deeply crave human companionship and if they are frequently left alone for extended periods, it may lead to undesirable behaviors.

Nutrition

	To keep a German wirehaired pointer healthy, it's important to provide them with a high-quality dog food that is suitable for their age (puppy, adult, or senior) and activity level. It is essential to educate yourself about which human foods are safe for dogs and which should be avoided. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your dog's weight or diet, it's recommended to consult with your veterinarian or reach out to the dog's breeder for guidance. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that clean and fresh water is always accessible for your furry friend.

Historiography

British hunters bred specialized hunting dogs tailored to different types of birds and terrains, whether on land or water resulting in an abundance of British setters, spaniels and retrievers. Conversely, hunters in Continental Europe took a different approach. They developed versatile bird dogs that could excel in all aspects of hunting. Examples of these celebrated hunting companions often referred to as "European utility breeds" include Italy's Spinone, Hungary's Vizsla and Germany's GWP (German Wirehaired Pointer).

The name "German Wirehaired Pointer" is the English translation of the German breed name, "Deutsch-Drahthaar." In the early 1800s, German sportsmen had a fervor for breeding wire-coated pointing dogs. As the century progressed, dog enthusiasts in Britain and on the Continent increasingly focused on categorizing dogs by breed rather than just by type. Consequently, distinct breeds such as the GWP, Pudelpointer and German Broken-coated Pointer all possessing harsh coats were officially recognized.

Throughout the breed's history, enthusiasts placed significant importance on the GWP's coat. This is unsurprising, considering that breeders specifically designed them as all-terrain, all-weather hunters capable of excelling in tall grass, dense woods and water. The wiry coat serves as a waterproof suit of armor, while the shaggy eyebrows and beard provide protection against cuts and scratches from thorny vegetation.

GWPs were introduced to North American hunters in the 1920s and the American Kennel Club (AKC) recognized the breed in 1959, admitting it to its studbook.