Choosing a German Wirehaired Pointer

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The German wirehaired pointer, also known as the drahthaar, is a relatively recently developed breed from Germany. The breed is an excellent gun dog and can be a faithful and loving family companion.

History and Origin

The German wirehaired pointer was developed in the early 1900s in Germany as an excellent gun dog. The breed originated from crossing the German pointer with other breeds. There is some debate on which other breeds were included but many feel that the wirehaired griffon, foxhound, bloodhound and poodle were used in the breed's development. The breed was first seen in the United States in the 1920s and was accepted to the American Kennel Club in 1959 as a member of the working group.

Appearance and Size

The German wirehaired pointer is a medium sized distinctive looking pointer. The nose is long and wide and the ears are rounded, hanging close to the head.

The tail is set high and docked.

His wirehaired coat makes him easy to recognize. The coat is weather resistant with a dense undercoat in winter, which is shed for the summer. The outer coat is harsh, wiry and straight and about one to two inches in length. The beard is medium length and the eyebrows are strong. The hair coat is liver and white.

The adult wirehaired pointer stands around 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weighs about 60 to 70 pounds.

Personality

The German wirehaired pointer is a loyal and affectionate dog that can be a little standoffish toward strangers. He is always eager to please his family but can be stubborn and willful. The breed has a tendency to roam so should be kept on a leash unless in a fenced yard.

Home and Family Relations

The German wirehaired pointer does best in a very active family with older children and a big fenced yard. This dog is extremely energetic and needs daily exercise. He would make a wonderful jogging companion and enjoys swimming.

Training

As with other pointers, the German wirehaired pointer is a natural retriever. They are intelligent but their exuberance can sometimes make them difficult to train in basic obedience. This pointer is a good gun dog and loves to hunt any game. The breed can track, point and retrieve.

Special Concerns

The coat of this pointer needs to be brushed about twice a week. Periodically, stripping of the coat may be needed. This dog is very energetic and needs plenty of exercise. A bored restless German wirehaired pointer can be destructive.