German Wirehaired Pointer Dog Breed Information
- AKA:Deutscher Drahthaariger, Vorstehund, German Pointer (Wirehaired), Drahthaar
- Size:Large
- Ease of Training:Low
- Grooming:Medium
- Shedding:Medium (seasonal)
- Exercise Needed:Needs a walk and some running daily
- Energy Level:Medium/High
- Protection:Medium/High
- Good with Children:Medium/High Yes, especially when raised with them
- Health Clearances:OFA, CERF
- Weight:45-75 lbs
- Height:22-26 inches
- Coat Colour:Liver and white, with ears and head solid liver, sometimes with a white blaze
German Wirehaired Pointer Coat
This breed has a wiry, coarse, straight and weather resistant coat. It is typically two inches in length and has a thick undercoat. This combination makes the coat water-repellent and protects the German Wirehaired Pointer from thorns and brambles. They are bearded, whiskered, and have thick forehead hair to protect the face. The colour of the coat is typically liver and white, spotted, ticked or roan. They may also be a solid liver in colour. This breed is an average shedder.
German Wirehaired Pointer Character
German Wirehaired Pointers are noble and distinctive in appearance. They are muscular, sturdily built, and hardy. This is a powerful breed that is extremely versatile and incredibly strong. They are keenly alert and exceedingly loyal. The German Wirehaired Pointer has an attentive and lively expression.
German Wirehaired Pointer Temperament
This is a breed that is extremely affectionate and active. They are eager to learn, like to be occupied, and enjoy being with their owner. The German Wirehaired Pointer does best with older, considerate children. They are particularly attached to their master and may display jealousy. This breed will generally get along well with other dogs and pets, but may try to dominate them. They are aloof and suspicious of strangers and make good watchdogs.
German Wirehaired Pointer Care
The coat of the German Wirehaired Pointer requires brushing with a firm bristle brush twice weekly. They also need occasional stripping of the coat. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. It is important to keep the ears clean and check their feet after the German Wirehaired Pointer has been out working. They are prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, genetic eye disease, and skin cancer.
German Wirehaired Pointer Activity
The German Wirehaired Pointer is highly energetic and active. It is important they have vigorous exercise. This breed requires an active family. They make wonderful jogging companions and enjoy swimming. They are not recommended for apartment life as they can be high strung and active indoors. If they are not given sufficient exercise and stimulation they become restless and destructive. The German Wirehaired Pointer needs a lot of space and room to run.
German Wirehaired Pointer Health and Life Expectancy
The German Wirehaired Pointer has a life expectancy of around 10-12 years, and there are a number of health issues that are linked to the breed. This includes elbow dysplasia, HD, and cataracts. Other than this, the German Wirehaired Pointer is generally a hardy and healthy breed. The parents of the German Wirehaired Pointer puppy should have OFA and CERF certificates.