German Wirehaired Pointer

“German Wirehaired Pointer” is the English version of the German breed name, “Deutsch-Drahthaar”. Drahthaar means “Wirehair”, while the word “Pointer” is not used in Germany to describe the breed.

The breeding of wire-coated pointing dogs was something of an obsession among German breeders of the early 1800’s. They wanted to develop a rugged, versatile, medium-sized hunting dog that would work closely with one person or a small party, hunting on foot in varied terrain, from mountainous regions to dense forests to more open rural areas.

The breed the Germans desired needed a coat that would be easy to maintain, yet would protect the dog when working in heavy cover or in cold water. This was achieved through careful crosses of the German Pointer with many other breeds. Sources differ on the exact lineage, although the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, Pudelpointer, Stichelhaar, and Deutscher-Kurzhaar are thought to be the most likely contributors. The outcome was a dog that excelled at searching, locating and pointing game and was fully responsive to the needs of its hunter.

GWPs today have many roles. They are excellent dogs for the modern hunter who, much like the Germans of the 1800’s, wants a dog that can literally do it all. They compete successfully in conformation shows, horseback field trials, hunt tests, agility, obedience, and just about every type of performance event. They also serve as therapy dogs, drug detection dogs, and loyal companions who would rather sleep on their owners’ feet than anywhere else.

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a very active dog who is well suited to life as a hunting companion. If you are considering this breed as a family pet, you need to commit to providing sufficient exercise and mental stimulation for its needs.

GWPs need plenty of physical activity at least twice a day, such as a good run, long brisk walk and/or high energy play session. Running, hiking, swimming, and organized dog-based sports are great activities for this breed. You should also give them plenty of toys and different kinds of activities around the house to keep them occupied. The breed is smart, talented, versatile, and athletic and excels in a wide range of canine sports and activities such as obedience, tracking, agility and rally, which provide plenty of physical and mental exercise.

Eager to please, quick-learning and responsive, like most sporting breeds German Wirehairs take well to training. However, they are creative and independent thinkers, so it’s important to establish rules, be consistent and prevent boredom setting in. Positive reinforcement techniques such as play, praise and food rewards are recommended. Early socialisation and puppy training classes will help to ensure that the GWP grows into a well-adjusted, well-mannered companion.

The German Wirehaired Pointer’s harsh, wiry coat requires very little maintenance. A good brushing every few days with a comb and soft slicker brush will help to remove dirt and loose hair and keep the coat looking its best. The breed does shed, especially at hotter times of the year.

This breed’s ears and feet need particular attention. Owners need to take care to regularly inspect and clean and/or dry the ears if needed. The hair on the feet needs to be trimmed to prevent mud collecting between the toes.