German Wirehaired Pointer
Published: Last updated: by Kyle J. Larson
A little bit large than other Pointers, the German Wirehaired Pointer is also known for its shaggy beard and harsh, wiry coat which protects against inclement weather and tough terrain.
Average size and lifespan
Weight: 45-75lbs
Lifespan: 13 - 16 Years
Behavior
- Affection
- Kid-Friendly
- Stranger-Friendly
- Dog-Friendly
- Barking Amount
Care
- Grooming Difficulty
- Shedding Amount
- Easy to Train
- Can Be Alone
- Exercise Need
Environment
- Cold Tolerance
- Heat Tolerance
- Apartment-Friendly
German Wirehaired Pointer Information
Like other Pointers, this breed is agile and active, with a strong drive to hunt and work hard. For personality, he is affectionate, friendly, and eager to please. Owners will find this dog does well with children and other pups.
History
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a robust and versatile breed of canine, hailing from Germany, where it was developed in the late 19th century as a hunting dog. It is a handsome and formidable breed with its distinctive wirehaired coat and dignified bearing.
The breed was created by crossing various hunting breeds such as the Pointer, the Pudelpointer, and the German Shorthaired Pointer. The breed was officially recognized by the German Kennel Club in 1949 and has since gained popularity worldwide as a sporting and companion dog.
Training and Temperament
When it comes to training and temperament, the German Wirehaired Pointer is an intelligent and eager-to-please breed that responds well to consistent and positive reinforcement. As with any breed, early socialization and training are crucial in shaping your dog’s temperament. This breed is known for its energetic and playful nature and requires plenty of physical and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Grooming
This breed’s wirehaired coat requires regular grooming to maintain its distinctive appearance. The breed’s coat is thick and wiry, with a protective outer layer and a soft undercoat. Although the coat looks complicated, it requires only minimal grooming. Regular brushing and stripping of the coat is necessary to keep it in good condition, and the breed is known to shed minimally.
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a loyal and devoted breed that makes for a wonderful companion and sporting dog. With its intelligence and trainability, this breed is a pleasure to own and care for and is sure to bring joy and fulfillment to any household.
All dogs have their own personality and unique training, causing them to differ slightly from these breed stats. However, please let us know if we made an error in the stats, we appreciate your help!
Breed FAQs
Can German Wirehaired Pointers be apartment dogs?
The German Wirehaired Pointer needs room to run and play. This makes them difficult to keep in small spaces like an apartment.
Can German Wirehaired Pointers be left alone?
While German Wirehaired Pointers prefer to be around their owners, they can do fairly well when left alone if necessary.
Are German Wirehaired Pointers good with kids?
German Wirehaired Pointers can do fine with kids. They will require some monitoring and training to make sure they get along and react well to unpredictable behavior.
Are German Wirehaired Pointers friendly with strangers?
Although German Wirehaired Pointers can take a bit to warm up to a stranger, they are mostly friendly with others.
Do German Wirehaired Pointers get along with other dogs?
Although German Wirehaired Pointers will mostly get along with other dogs, they may have some issues. They can typically be dealt with by socializing them with other dogs.
Do German Wirehaired Pointers bark a lot?
As far as dogs go, German Wirehaired Pointers bark an average amount. You can expect them to bark to alert you, get your attention, or when there are strangers or other dogs.
Do German Wirehaired Pointers shed a lot?
German Wirehaired Pointers shed quite a bit. You'll need to brush them often to limit the hair on your floors and clothing.
Do German Wirehaired Pointers need a lot of grooming?
German Wirehaired Pointers don't require very much effort for grooming. You'll just need to provide typical maintenance and baths.
Do German Wirehaired Pointers need a lot of exercise?
Expect German Wirehaired Pointers to have high energy levels and need a lot of exercise. You'll need to find options to release this energy or they may exibit bad behavior.
Are German Wirehaired Pointers easy to train?
Typically, German Wirehaired Pointers are easy to train. They enjoy the bonding process with their owner and are quick to learn.
Can German Wirehaired Pointers handle cold weather?
German Wirehaired Pointers do well in cold weather. You may need to protect their paws, but they'll do well in colder climates.
Can German Wirehaired Pointers handle hot weather?
German Wirehaired Pointers do well in hot climates and can stay out longer without overheating.
Getting a New Dog?