German Wirehaired Pointer

Family: gundog, pointer, versatile hunting dog

Origin: Germany

Date of Origin: 1800s

Breed For: general hunting, watchdog

Lifespan:

Recently Used For: pointing, pointing field trials, companion

Avg Size of Male: Height: 24-26 Weight: 45-75

Avg Size of Female: Height:>22 Weight: 45-75

Temperament:

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.

History:

When game-bird shooting became accessible to persons of average means, demand for both specialist and versatile hunting breeds soared. The quest for versatile breeds reached its height in Germany, and the German wirehaired pointer represents one of its most successful results. Hunters wanted a dog that would locate and point upland game, track wounded game, confront tough vermin, retrieve waterfowl from land or water and also function as companion and watchdog. It was developed to be a close worker over any kind of terrain. A rough wiry coat was needed to hunt through dense brambles. Its most important ancestor was the pudelpointer (itself a combination of the old German pudel and the pointer), which was crossed with the early German shorthaired pointer, griffon, stichelhaar and Polish water dog. The breed, known as the drahthaar in Germany, has since become the most popular hunting breed in Germany. Nonetheless, it was not recognized there officially until the 1920s, the same time the first wirehaired came to America. The German wirehaired pointer was recognized in America in 1959 but has never gained the popularity that it enjoys in its native land.

Upkeep:

Exercise is a daily requirement for this energetic hunter. At least an hour a day of exertion is recommended, and the ideal situation would combine exercise with hunting or a chance to run and explore afield. As a breed that thrives on human companionship, it does best as a house dog with access to the outdoors. Like most harsh coats, some minimal hand-stripping may occasionally be needed to maintain a sleek outline; otherwise, brushing about once a week will suffice.

Health:

Major concerns: CHD#Minor concerns: elbow dysplasia#Occasionally seen: none#Suggested tests: hip, elbow#Life span: 12 – 14 years