Dog Breeds - Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed exhibits towards family members or familiar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may demonstrate a propensity for being more reserved and aloof towards everyone except their owner, while others have a naturally friendly disposition and treat everyone they know as their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The level of tolerance and patience of a breed towards children's behavior along with its family-friendly nature, highlights the need for constant supervision of dogs around young children or those with minimal exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The overall friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is an important factor to consider. It is crucial to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with other dogs, as some breeds have a natural inclination to get along well with their canine counterparts, whether it be at home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair a breed is prone to shedding is a crucial consideration. Breeds with high shedding will require more frequent brushing can potentially trigger certain allergies and may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
When evaluating the grooming requirements of a breed, it is important to consider the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance. This assessment should take into account the time, patience and budget you have available for such care. Additionally, it is necessary to note that regular nail trimming is essential for all breeds.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool is a significant factor to consider. If you prefer cleanliness and are meticulous about hygiene, breeds that are prone to leaving slobber trails on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes may not be the ideal choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Wiry, Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming behavior a breed typically displays towards strangers is an important aspect to consider. Certain breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around strangers, regardless of the situation, while other breeds may enthusiastically greet and engage with new humans whenever they are present.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed displays towards play, even beyond the puppy stage is an important factor to consider. Certain breeds will maintain a strong desire to play tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content to relax on the couch with you for the majority of the time.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
The breed's tendency to alert you when strangers are nearby is a crucial characteristic to consider. Some breeds are more inclined to react to potential threats, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are likely to warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change is an essential aspect to consider. This encompasses how well a breed adjusts to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are significant factors to consider. Certain breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are eager to learn, while others may exhibit a more independent nature preferring to do things their own way, when and where they choose.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed are essential factors to consider. High-energy breeds are always ready and enthusiastic for their next adventure, engaging in activities such as running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to have a more relaxed demeanor content with lounging around and enjoying peaceful snoozes.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization including barks or howls is an important characteristic to consider. Certain breeds may bark at every passer-by or bird they encounter, while others will only bark in specific situations. Additionally, some barkless breeds may still find alternative ways to express themselves through different sounds.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation required to keep a breed happy and healthy is an important consideration. Purpose-bred dogs often have jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may create their own activities to keep their minds occupied and they may not align with the kind of projects you would prefer. Providing sufficient mental stimulation is essential to prevent boredom and promote the overall well-being of these breeds.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed exhibits towards family members or familiar individuals can vary. Certain breeds may demonstrate a propensity for being more reserved and aloof towards everyone except their owner, while others have a naturally friendly disposition and treat everyone they know as their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The level of tolerance and patience of a breed towards children's behavior along with its family-friendly nature, highlights the need for constant supervision of dogs around young children or those with minimal exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The overall friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is an important factor to consider. It is crucial to supervise dogs during interactions and introductions with other dogs, as some breeds have a natural inclination to get along well with their canine counterparts, whether it be at home or in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair a breed is prone to shedding is a crucial consideration. Breeds with high shedding will require more frequent brushing can potentially trigger certain allergies and may necessitate more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling to keep the environment clean.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

When evaluating the grooming requirements of a breed, it is important to consider the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming and other forms of coat maintenance. This assessment should take into account the time, patience and budget you have available for such care. Additionally, it is necessary to note that regular nail trimming is essential for all breeds.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool is a significant factor to consider. If you prefer cleanliness and are meticulous about hygiene, breeds that are prone to leaving slobber trails on your arm or large wet spots on your clothes may not be the ideal choice for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Wiry, Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming behavior a breed typically displays towards strangers is an important aspect to consider. Certain breeds may exhibit reserved or cautious behavior around strangers, regardless of the situation, while other breeds may enthusiastically greet and engage with new humans whenever they are present.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed displays towards play, even beyond the puppy stage is an important factor to consider. Certain breeds will maintain a strong desire to play tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years, while others will be content to relax on the couch with you for the majority of the time.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

The breed's tendency to alert you when strangers are nearby is a crucial characteristic to consider. Some breeds are more inclined to react to potential threats, whether it's the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are likely to warm up to strangers who enter the house and are accepted by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change is an essential aspect to consider. This encompasses how well a breed adjusts to changes in living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are significant factors to consider. Certain breeds have a strong desire to please their owners and are eager to learn, while others may exhibit a more independent nature preferring to do things their own way, when and where they choose.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed are essential factors to consider. High-energy breeds are always ready and enthusiastic for their next adventure, engaging in activities such as running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to have a more relaxed demeanor content with lounging around and enjoying peaceful snoozes.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Medium

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation required to keep a breed happy and healthy is an important consideration. Purpose-bred dogs often have jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other mental qualities. Without adequate mental exercise, these dogs may create their own activities to keep their minds occupied and they may not align with the kind of projects you would prefer. Providing sufficient mental stimulation is essential to prevent boredom and promote the overall well-being of these breeds.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Brown & Gray	306
Chestnut & Gray	307
White & Brown	204
White & Orange	213
White	199
Brown	061
Chestnut	070

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Ticked	013
Roan	036

About The Breed

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is indeed renowned as a supreme gundog excelling in the field while maintaining a loving nature at home. This breed is outgoing, eager and quick-witted. With a medium-sized build, they stand no taller than 24 inches at the shoulder and possess a unique coat that is harsh and low-shedding giving them an unkempt appearance. The preferred color for Griffs is steel gray with brown markings. They feature a striking mustache and eyebrows that frame their large, rounded eyes, conveying their keen intelligence. The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon embodies the image of a hardworking sporting dog, whose handsome appearance comes from a natural rugged charm rather than meticulous grooming.

What to Expect When Caring for A WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Wirehaired Pointing Griffon: 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

	In relation to the Griffon breed, there are a number of unique health and genetic screening considerations. Although the occurrence of hip dysplasia in Griffons is relatively low, it is still vital to ensure that both dams and sires receive clearances from either OFA or PennHIP. Furthermore, certain breeders may seek medical clearances for eye, heart, elbow and thyroid conditions. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club: Hip Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation Elbow Evaluation

Grooming

	provides insulation. To maintain this unique coat, the breed necessitates weekly brushing or combing, regular trimming of nails and tooth brushing along with occasional trimming around the feet and ears. In certain cases, hand-stripping may be required periodically to encourage the growth of new coat. Since Griffons like other dogs with drooping ears are susceptible to ear infections, it is advisable to clean and pluck the hair in their ear canals on a regular basis.

Exercise

	Griffons being social creatures thrive on a substantial amount of attention consistent training and a considerable investment of time and patience. They are not well-suited to being full-time kennel dogs, as they exhibit high activity levels as puppies and possess remarkable intelligence, sociability and physical strength as adults. It is essential to provide them with significant daily mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom, unhappiness or destructive behavior. The ideal Griffon household is one where the individuals lead an active lifestyle and actively involve the dog in their daily routines. When the mental emotional and physical needs of a Griffon are met consistently, they can be an incredibly enjoyable and easy-to-live-with companion.

Training

	The modern Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (WPG) continues to embody the qualities envisioned by Korthals more than a century ago. This versatile gundog, known for its exceptional trainability, excels in the hunting of upland birds, waterfowl and furred game. With a deliberate and thorough approach, the Griffon is an unwavering and indefatigable worker driven by a strong desire to please its master. To bring out the best in this hunting companion, it is crucial to introduce them early to game birds and expose them to hunting conditions. Owners seeking to maximize their Griffon's hunting potential can turn to local AKC pointing-breed clubs and chapters of the North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association for expert training advice on various game birds. It is worth noting that positive and consistent training methods yield the best results for the Griffon's development.

Nutrition

	For the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, it is important to provide a high-quality dog food whether commercially manufactured or prepared at home under the supervision and approval of a veterinarian. The chosen diet should be suitable for the dog's specific age category, whether it is a puppy, adult or senior. It is worth noting that some Griffons are prone to weight gain, so it is essential to monitor their calorie intake and maintain a healthy weight for them. While treats can be beneficial during training, it is crucial to avoid excessive indulgence, as it can lead to obesity. It is recommended to familiarize oneself with safe and unsafe human foods for dogs. If any concerns regarding the dog's weight or diet arise consulting with a veterinarian is advised. Additionally, clean and fresh water should always be accessible to the Griffon.

Historiography

In the 1800s, hunting dog enthusiasts from Continental Europe were deeply engrossed in the art of breeding canines with exceptional versatility. One remarkable individual among them was Eduard Korthals, a Dutchman and the son of a prosperous banker. With careful and deliberate crossbreeding techniques involving multiple breeds, Korthals accomplished the remarkable feat of developing a dog that excelled as both a land pointer and an adept water retriever. These remarkable canines even possessed webbed toes perfect for swimming. Korthals dedicated himself to refining his breed while being employed in Germany and, ultimately, France. Since Korthals's era passionate supporters have engaged in spirited debates questioning whether Griffs should be classified as a genuine Dutch or a truly French breed.