German Wirehaired Pointer Dog Breed Information

Group

Sporting

Weight

30-32 kg

Height

60-65 cm

Lifespan

12-14 years

Jump To

About the German Wirehaired Pointer

Reviewed by:

Dr. Dilber Hussain

Veterinarian

If you find yourself seeking the perfect pooch to join your family, perhaps a German Wirehaired Pointer is right for you? An incredibly active dog that is fond of human companionship, German Wirehairs can make a great addition to the family when shown proper leadership, and get along with most people and other pets.

Keep reading our handy guide to learn a little more about the German Wirehaired Pointer’s background; as well as a bit about the care they need and their temperament.

What is the history & origin of the German Wirehaired?

The German Wirehaired Pointer is one of the dog breeds which came about from a love of the hunt, originating in Germany during the late 1800s. ‘Designed’ as the most versatile gun dog, the Drahthaar can point, track and retrieve better than most other dogs. Its rough, water-repellent coat makes it equally adept at managing field and water.

This breed was recognised by the American Kennel Club in 1959; however, it has remained true to its roots and is still more prevalent in Germany than anywhere else in the world.

What is a German Wirehaired Breed?

A medium-sized dog with a sturdy build and the look of rugged nobility, it is believed that this Pointer is descended from a few different dog breeds – mostly pointer-type dogs and barbet-type dogs – including the Pudelpointer and the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. Polish Water Dogs and the ever-popular German Shepherd may also have a place in GWP ancestry.

The German Wirehaired Pointer’s claim to fame really is its marvellous water-resistant outer coat, which makes them the perfect outdoor dog. This wiry coat lays flat across its back at about two inches in length, with a second, undercoat which is thick in winter and fine in summer months.

This tough watchdog coat protects the outdoorsy pooch against harsh underbrush, with a natural water resistance which makes it better suited to braving the elements than many other dog breeds. German Wirehaired Pointers have a look of wisdom about them too; with that artfully scruffy beard and full, expressional eyebrows it’s no wonder they remain a firm favourite among pet parents.

Who is a German Wirehaired Best For?

These Pointers are even-tempered dogs and will make for a loyal and protective companions. They can make suitable dogs for families with children if they are raised with them from a puppy, or with older children whom they can recognise as a leader.

The German Wirehaired Pointer is an intelligent sort, with a naturally inquisitive nature and an instinct to roam which may frustrate inexperienced pet parents.

These hunting dogs need plenty of vigorous exercises daily and fare best living in a house with access to an outside space. The Wirehaired Pointer needs to burn off plenty of energy; its natural gun dog prevalence makes it especially fond of a good game of fetch as well as other dog sports. They will become frustrated and restless if cooped up and quickly difficult to control.

German Wirehaired Grooming & Shedding

Your German Wirehaired pooch should be brushed twice weekly using a firm bristle brush. The coat will require some stripping but it will thin itself in the spring and autumn months. The hair should feel coarse and “wiry” with longer, softer hair on the face.

The hair is hard and protective, perfect for its intended profession of traipsing through the brambles and thick countryside. It should be easy to maintain, however, and does not shed as often as many other breeds.

Do German Wirehaired dogs bark a lot?

Just like any dog, a GWP can get a little bitey if it gets overly excited. They don’t tend to be vicious, just a little snap-happy. Unless the pooch is seriously provoked, most biting incidents from Pointers as the result of poor training. Yes, that means it is the human’s fault.

Biting is never okay. Kindly discourage biting in your pup so that it does not retain this bad behaviour into adulthood.

What is the average weight & height of a German Wirehaired dog?

Like many dogs, German Wirehaired Pointers are a little longer than they are tall.

Expect an average of 65cm tall or so for adult males; with 30-32 kilograms weight. Females tend to grow to about 60cm and weigh closer to 28 kilograms.

Are German Wirehaired dogs easy to train?

Okay, these guys are super smart. They have natural, gun dog instincts which means their sense of smell and their hearing is potentially better honed than some other dogs. Generally, Pointers are easy to train and eager to please but even with the best training, they do not care to be left alone or shut indoors for long periods.

It is recommended that pet parents get their pup to socialise with other people and more dog breeds early on, so it gets accustomed to them and does not become unnecessarily protective of their human companion.

How do German Wirehaired dogs behave? A look at their temperament and personality

German Wirehaired Pointers are considered even-tempered dogs. This breed is known to be protective of its owner, especially toward other dogs.

These dogs are also known for their very energetic longevity range and therefore love exercise and running around for hours on end.

These versatile gun dogs make for loyal companions… but occasional signs of aggression mean they are not always recommended for families with young children unless they are raised with them from a puppy. Some members of the species may dominate other dogs or animals if introduced suddenly.

Does the German Wirehaired have any common health issues?

Although hardy by nature, the German Wirehaired Pointer can suffer from heart disease, elbow dysplasia, hyperthyroidism, or even canine hip displacement. Regular veterinary checkups should be able to monitor your canine companion and make sure they stay fit and healthy.

Its ears ought to be checked regularly for infection – doubly so if your GWP is a keen swimmer – and like any dog, its teeth must be brushed regularly using an appropriate toothpaste designed for our four-legged friends.

What is the lifespan of a German Wirehaired?

The average lifespan for this breed is 12-14 years. An active lifestyle, as well as regular checkups, will help to ensure a long, healthy life.

How much does a German Wirehaired need to be fed?

These guys put on weight fast. As pet parents, you should feed your GWP high-quality, nutritious dog food. They are partial to human food too but we recommend asking your veterinarian what is good for them as a treat and what’s a big no-no. After all, since they are prone to weakening elbows and heart disease, allowing your canine chum to get overweight is going to cut back its lifespan.

We recommend consulting your veterinarian for the most up-to-date dietary advice, as well as searching online for a local German Wirehaired Pointer club or a similar national breed club where you can meet and learn from experienced breeders and handlers.

How much can you expect to pay for a German Wirehaired in Australia?

Prices for a GWP tend to vary from $500-$1000 per pup.

It is recommended that you contact the Australian National Kennel Council or a similar expert body for your region for the details of a trusted breeder and the appropriate price.

German Wirehaired FAQs

Do German Wirehaired Pointers ever calm down?

Puppies are energetic and hyperactive and sometimes, just downright chaotic – but that’s half the fun. Just like lots more dog breeds, your Wirehaired pup will probably calm down by around the age of two or three, just as long as it has been properly trained!

What is the difference between a German Wirehaired Pointer and a German Shorthaired Pointer?

It is believed that both breeds came to be during the mid-late 1800s however the Shorthair Pointed mixes Spanish Pointer with English Pointer and Setters. Both breeds have achieved AKC recognition and boast comparable range and stamina.

The Shorthair seems to have a more slimline build; the wiry coat of the Wirehair gives it a more solid appearance.

How fast can a German Wirehaired Pointer run?

Their average running speed is 25 mph.

Are German Wirehaired Pointers hypoallergenic dogs?

Certain breeds have been bred to cause fewer allergic reactions in allergy-prone sapiens. Sporting more of a ‘practical sports jacket’ than a ‘luxurious coat’ the German Wirehaired Pointer is not technically a hypoallergenic pooch. However, they are also not as detrimental to allergy sufferers as long-coated, rapid-shedding breeds.

The GWP do not shed their coats very often. Therefore they will not deposit a large amount of fur on your furniture or carpet. This means they may sometimes be kept by mild allergy sufferers but keep the severity of your allergy in mind when deciding what type of dog to adopt.