German Wirehaired Pointer Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the German Wirehaired Pointer?

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.

Who are German Wirehaired Pointer dogs best for?

These Pointers are even-tempered dogs and will make for a loyal and protective companion. 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 exercise 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.

How much grooming does a German Wirehaired Pointer need?

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 Pointer bark much?

German Wirehaired Pointers tend to bark when they have something to alert their human to. Bred as working gun dogs, they were originally required to quietly sneak up on prey and this enduring, gun dog prevalence means they are not prone to incessant noisemaking.

Do German Wirehaired Pointer bite?

Just like any dog, a GWP can get a little bite-y 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 temperament & personality of a German Wirehaired Pointer?

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.

What is the weight & size of a German Wirehaired Pointer?

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

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

How much training does a German Wirehaired Pointer need?

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.

What are some of the most common health issues for a German Wirehaired Pointer?

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 Pointer?

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 should you feed a German Wirehaired Pointer?

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.

What is the price of a German Wirehaired Pointer 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.