German Wirehaired Pointer

Overview of German Wirehaired Pointers

  • German Wirehaired Pointers are generally healthy, but a few are susceptible to common canine ailments which include hip dysplasia (malformed hip joint which can cause lameness or arthritis), ear infections, and eye problems.
  • The German Wirehaired Pointer is a great companion for older children who can stand up to his size and energy level, but he may be overwhelming for younger children who are easily knocked down in play.
  • German Wirehaired Pointers Create the least-expensive pet checklist since they are usually healthy, with possible minimal healthcare costs of approximately $1,700 during their 12- to 14-year lifespan.
  • German Wirehaired Pointers are related to several other Pointers who were bred for a similar purpose – locating and retrieving downed game as loyal, intelligent and capable hunting companions.
  • German Wirehaired Pointer temperament, personality, training, behavior, pros and cons, advice, and information, by Michele Welton, Dog Trainer, Behavioral Consultant, Author of 15 Dog Books
  • German Wirehaired Pointers will do best on a high-protein diet that helps them build lean muscle, as well as providing all the energy requirements to match their active lifestyle.
  • German Wirehaired Pointers were developed in the 1850s to serve as both game-getter and family pet, when commoners were finally allowed to hunt as Europe became more democratic.
  • The German Wirehaired Pointer is also considered a tall dog in regard to height, with an average height of 24-26 inches (male), minimum 22 inches (female).
  • German Wirehaired Pointers can jump up to 6 feet, so they can easily clear most backyard fences if they choose to — and a bored dog would consider this!
  • German Wirehaired Pointers shed a moderate amount of hair year round, except during late spring to early summer as he sheds his thick winter coat.
  • Breed

    The unregulated breeders who are selling outside of the USDA regulations and without a license are what we consider to be “Puppy Mills.” We are committed to offering German Wirehaired Pointers puppies who will grow up to become important members of your family.We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell.

    Cancer

    Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere.Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly.Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer, with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy.Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts German Wirehaired Pointers more than other breeds.This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell.Treatment can be costly, however, and is a lifelong commitment.Watch for swollen glands (ask us, we’ll show you where to look), weight loss, or labored breathing at home and be sure to call us if you notice any unusual symptoms.

    Coat

    German Wirehaired Pointers also have impressive eyebrows of a straighter fur.The official breed standard for the German Wirehaired Pointer states that the coat is the “most distinctive feature.” This specific feature of the dog was intended to protect them from the elements while out hunting in the field.Their double coat keeps them well insulated in the colder months but sheds out to almost nothing over the summer months, leaving just their wiry topcoat.These give this breed a distinctive and charismatic appearance!This topcoat is excellent at resisting the worst weather that your dog might be out in, as well as being slightly water-repellent.

    Energy

    Genetic Predispositions

    At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Wirehair looking and feeling her best.This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for German Wirehaired Pointers.This information helps you and us together plan for your pet’s unique medical needs.You will know what to watch for, and we will all feel better knowing that we’re taking the best possible care of your pal.

    Grooming

    After all that time spent making sure your German Wirehaired Pointer is well exercised, you won’t need to spend much time grooming them!Their wiry coat is low maintenance, so a weekly grooming session is all they need to stay looking smart.

    Health

    You can minimize serious health concerns in a German Wirehaired Pointer by purchasing from a reputable breeder who engages in responsible breeding practices, and through screening for common diseases and conditions.

    Infections

    German Wirehaired Pointers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper.Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors.

    Life expectancy

    A consistent training approach is required as it can sometimes be willful.Activity: The German Wirehaired Pointer was bred to hunt.Care: The German Wirehaired Pointer should be brushed weekly and bathed only when necessary.Character: The German Wirehaired Pointer is loyal to its family, intelligent, adventurous, and friendly.Coat: The German Wirehaired Pointer’s coarse, wiry, flat, weather-resistant coat is its defining feature.Country of Origin: The German Wirehaired Pointer (also known as the ‘Deutsch Drahthaar’) is a versatile German breed which developed in the late 1800’s when bird hunting grew in popularity with the middle class.Ears should be checked periodically for infection.German Wirehaired Pointers are generally healthy, but some are susceptible to common canine ailments such as hip dysplasia (malformed hip joint which can cause lameness or arthritis), ear infections, and eye problems.German Wirehaired Pointers have a life expectancy of 12-14 years.German Wirehaired Pointers live to please their owner.Hunters sought to develop a breed that could point, track, retrieve, guard, and fearlessly hunt potential fighters such as foxes.It enjoys long walks, swimming, and retrieving.It has straight-haired eyebrows, oval eyes, and a visible stop (depression where the muzzle meets the forehead).It is a sturdy, muscular, medium-sized dog.It is a tireless breed requiring at least an hour a day of serious exercise.It is good with children but can grow jealous of its master’s affections; it should spend as much time with its owner as possible when young to establish trust.It is liver and white with liver head and ears, white muzzle and possible white blaze (vertical line between the eyes).It is very affectionate.Its rough coat allowed it to push through the brush with ease and swim through cold waters.Puppy German Wirehaired Pointers have shorter coats which grow to their adult length.Size: The German Wirehaired Pointer has a shoulder height of 56-66 cm (22-26 in) and weighs 27-32 kg (60-70 lbs).Stripping may be required occasionally for show dogs.Temperament: The German Wirehaired Pointer is not fond of strangers.The coat is shorter on the legs and face, but with medium length beard and whiskers.The German Wirehaired Pointer has a dense undercoat which lightens in summer to keep it prepared for all seasons.The German Wirehaired Pointer has a tucked in belly, webbed feet, and tail docked to two fifths the natural length.The German Wirehaired Pointer is an average shedder.The German Wirehaired pointer is good with dogs and other pets but may try to dominate; socialize when young for best results.The German Wirehaired Pointer is happiest if it can spend substantial time with its human family.The German Wirehaired Pointer is most suited to outdoor activities and fits best with a sporty family.The German Wirehaired Pointer may become hyperactive and destructive if not properly exercised.The German Wirehaired Pointer was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1959.The German Wirehaired Pointer, bred from the Pointer, Griffon, and Polish Water Dog, met these goals amply.They make great hunting companions and watchdogs.Today it is the most popular hunting dog in Germany but enjoys only modest success in the U.S.Training: The German Wirehaired Pointer has a good reputation for training as it strongly desires to please its master.

    Obesity

    Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk.It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease.Obesity can be a significant health problem in German Wirehaired Pointers.She’ll feel better, and so will you!Though it’s tempting to give your pal food when she looks at you with those soulful eyes, you can “love her to death” with leftover people food and doggie treats.

    Personality

    Social

    These dogs can be a little possessive, as well as wary of strangers.This means puppy training classes, including plenty of socialization with both other dogs and humans, is essential to helping your German Wirehaired Pointer become a well-mannered adult dog.

    Temperament

    German Wirehaired Pointer is a good watchdog and barks when strangers approach its property.It is possessive of his things and people and may be aggressive toward strange dogs.The Temperament of the German Wirehaired Pointer is affected by early socialization because socialization includes exposure to new things, sights, and experiences.

    Training

    Endurance The German Wirehaired Pointer is built to hunt from dawn until dusk, so the breed has the stamina for long training sessions or runs.

    Are German Wirehaired Pointers a Popular Breed?

    The German Wirehaired Pointer ranks 64th on the AKC’s most popular list of 155 dog breeds.Due to that ranking, they’re often pure, and closer to their heritage than more popular dogs.However, these little handfuls can be quite demanding when it comes to time and attention and aren’t a good fit for the first time dog owner or the one which doesn’t have a schedule which permits them to give their dog the attention required.

    Are German Wirehaired Pointers Good with Children?

    How well a German Wirehaired Pointer does with children greatly depends on their upbringing.This breed can certainly be a one-person canine, but if raised alongside children, they’ll become a family dog.At that, they’re fantastic with children.The German Wirehaired Pointer characteristics are loving, gentle, and playful – these dogs grow to become the child’s best friend and companion.Their prey drive may take a bit to curb, but generally they’re well-tempered.Another positive attribute is they’re not big enough to really cause accidents, and not small enough to be considered fragile.

    Are German Wirehaired Pointers Good With Children?

    Yes, this breed is an excellent companion for children.Their playful, energetic personality matches perfectly with a child.They also love the extra attention received.This breed can live with smaller children if raised together but suit older kids best.

    Are German Wirehaired Pointers Good With Strangers?

    The GWP is often aloof and reserved with strangers.They’re watchdogs and will always be on the alert to any newcomer approaching their territory.If they haven’t been socialized well, they may become unfriendly towards strangers but not aggressive.

    Are German Wirehaired Pointers Ok With Other Dogs?

    This canine can get live well with other dogs.They may, however, become aggressive towards dogs they don’t know, especially those of the same sex.To avoid this behavior, socialization needs to begin as early as possible.Despite their hunting background, the GWP is able to live around cats.

    Are These Dogs Good for Families? ??

    German Wirehaired Pointers have the potential to be an excellent family dog, as long as you’re the right sort of family! When young, this breed is extremely enthusiastic and slightly awkward as they grow into their long limbs.This means they can easily knock things flying as they race around.

    Are
    German Wirehaired Pointer child friendly?

    Yes, German Wirehaired Pointer dogs are child-friendly but for older children who can stand up to his size and energy level but he can be overwhelming for younger children who can be easily knocked down while playing.

    Can You Stop Wirehaired Pointers from Shedding?

    You cannot stop any dog from shedding completely.Shedding (or moulting) is a normal process that takes place when the hair grows, stops growing and falls out.This is the natural hair growth cycle, which is essential to the health and wellbeing of your dog.

    Did You Know?

    In Britain in the 1800’s the trend was to develop specific dogs for each hunting task, hence the wide variety of spaniels, setters and pointers we have today! In mainland Europe however breeders focused on producing all-rounders, the ‘Hunt/Point/Retrieve’ or HPR breeds.These dogs, of which the German Wire-Haired Pointer is one example, were excellent at hunting, pointing, flushing, springing and retrieving, meaning all those jobs could be done by one dog.

    Do German Wirehaired Pointers Shed Much?

    German Wirehaired Pointers (GWPs) are medium sized gun dogs that excel at hunting in virtually all types of terrain.They also make affectionate and loyal family companions.

    Does a Large German Wirehaired Pointer Benefit From a High-Protein Dog Food?

    The German Wirehaired Pointer is a large, tall dog weighing in at over 50 pounds.Dogs of this size could benefit from a well-rounded diet that have all the necessary nutrients for their large frame.While a high-protein dog food is important for large breeds, most important is the proper percentages and sources of those proteins.When you select a high-protein dog food for your German Wirehaired Pointer at Spot & Tango, you can be assured that we have properly balanced a properly sourced, high-protein dog food while also including other essential nutrients needed for a large dog such as the German Wirehaired Pointer.

    Does This Breed Get Along with Other Pets?

    As a hunting and gundog breed, the German Wirehaired Pointer does have a high prey drive.This is something you will need to bear in mind if you want to integrate them into a house where you already have cats, small rodents, or both.

    Exercise ??

    This is the big one when it comes to German Wirehaired Pointers! You’ll need to set aside at least one hour every day for serious exercise, although your dog will be more than happy to take as much exercise as you can give them.Think long hikes, runs, cycling, swimming sessions, and backyard play sessions.Choosing to take your dog to obedience classes, tracking, agility, and gun dog trials will all help keep your German Wirehaired Pointer’s brain active and engaged, as well as their bodies.

    Food & Diet Requirements ??

    German Wirehaired Pointers will do best on a high-protein diet that helps them build lean muscle, as well as providing all the energy requirements to match their active lifestyle.

    Grooming ??

    After all that time spent making sure your German Wirehaired Pointer is well exercised, you won’t need to spend much time grooming them! Their wiry coat is low maintenance, so a weekly grooming session is all they need to stay looking smart.

    Have any questions about health in your breed?

    If you have any concerns about a particular health condition in your breed then you may wish to speak to your vet or you could contact your breed health co-ordinator.Breed health co-ordinators are individuals working on behalf of breed clubs and councils who are advocates for the health and welfare of their chosen breed.They acts as a spokesperson on matters of health and will collaborate with The Kennel Club on any health concerns the breed may have.

    Health Conditions ??

    As a general rule, the German Wirehaired Pointer is a healthy breed.Most breeders will be happy to speak to you about health conditions, as well as provide evidence of health tests that they’ve had carried out on parent dogs.Some also provide a written guarantee of health for their pups, and this is something we recommend asking about.

    How active is the German Wirehaired Pointer?

    As the GWP is a very active breed it is not suited to apartment living as it needs space and it needs a large yard or even some land to play and run around in outside.With active dogs like this it is essential it gets plenty of daily exercise as well as some mental stimulation too.This means it should only be owner by owners who can commit to that kind of exercise each day, ones who love to be active themselves.Without lots of activity it will be destructive, restless and high strung.It will need a couple of long brisk walks or it could also join you for jogs, hikes, cycling, swimming or so on.It would also like to go to dog parks where it can socialize, run off leash and play with you.Of course it will also still enjoy and be great at hunting.

    How is the German Wirehaired Pointer with children and other animals?

    The GWP is not naturally good with children but with socialization can be good, and it will be more affectionate and accepting if it has been raised with them.Always supervise it around younger children and around visiting children.Make sure too the children are taught how to safely touch it and play with it and that messing around with its things is a big no.Also keep in mind that is puppies the GWP likes to do some rough play which may be too much for some children.

    Looking for a puppy?

    Looking for a German Wirehaired Pointer? Explore our list of puppies and rescue dogs for sale near you.

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    Training ??

    Regular training sessions are as important as plenty of exercise when it comes to this breed.These dogs love to please their owners, and their above-average intelligence makes them both easy and rewarding to train.

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    What will training look like?

    This breed is moderately easy to train so it will not take lots of extra effort and frustration but things will be gradual not super fast.It does go easier though with owners who have experience or ones who use professional help or have done their homework on how to best train these dogs.You need to clearly establish yourself as the boss and remain the boss at all times.Be firm and be consistent.Do not set a rule that you let it break now and then.A rule is to be followed.It is also important the rest of the household are involved so that your dog will also obey them when needed.Be positive, use encouragement, praise and even treats.Stay patient and calm and keep things interesting for it.

    What’s the Price of German Wirehaired Pointer Puppies?

    The German Wirehaired Pointer is certainly not as well-known as some other breeds.You can expect to pay anywhere between $800 and $1,500 for a puppy.

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    History of German Wirehaired Pointers

  • In 1920, the first of this breed were imported into the United States.
  • In 1945 during World War II, many Hungarians fled the Russian occupation, taking their vizslas with them.
  • In 1953 the German Drahthaar Club of America was formed and in 1959 the AKC recognized them.
  • In 1959 the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club and the German Wirehaired Pointer Club of America (GWPCA) was established.
  • In 1963, the FCI accepted the Slovensky Kopov as a hunting dog of scenthound type.
  • In 1993, a 7-year-old female Jindo named Baekgu (백구; 白狗; translated as a White Dog), raised by Park Bok-dan (박복단), an 83-year-old woman on Jindo Island, was sold to a new owner in the city of Daejeon which is located about 300 km (180 mi) away from the island.
  • In 1999, the International Silken Windhound Society was chartered.
  • In 2001 the AKC admitted the German Pinscher into its Miscellaneous class, and in 2003 it became a bonafide member of the Working Group.
  • In 2003, after learning there was nobody doing boxer rescue work in Georgia, Gold founded Boxertown, an organization which helped find homes for over 500 boxers during its first two years.
  • In 2006, the United Kennel Club officially recognized the Transylvanian Hound.
  • In 2011, after several years of research, we decided to add a new breed to our home.
  • In 2015, Wisconsin became the first state to introduce a bill to make blaze pink a legal hunting color.
  • In the 1930s, hunters and falconers in Hungary needed a sturdy hunting dog with a tough, wiry coat that could resist the harsh weather conditions while on the hunt.