German Wirehaired PointerCharacteristics, history, training and care

The FCI standard says breeding of the breed began at the end of the 19th century and was carried out systematically from the start of the 20th century, following the ideas of “Hegewald” (Sigismund Freiherr von Zedlitz und Neukirch). The aim was a determined, efficient German wire-haired pointing dog.

Following the principle “type is formed through working ability”, the breed was created from the best rough-haired types (Pudelpointer, Griffon Korthals, Stichelhaar) and the German Shorthaired Pointer. The standard says that within a few decades it became the most popular and most proven large pointing dog in Germany and in many other countries.

How the breed developed

• End of the 19th century – Breeding of wire-haired pointing dogs begins.
• Early 20th century – “Hegewald” sets the direction for breeding the breed.
• 26 November 1954 – The FCI recognises the breed.
• 25 October 2000 – The current FCI standard is published.

Indicative rating: 5 stars means the highest level. It is based on the ratings the American Kennel Club gives the breed and on the FCI standard.

The standard describes it as a pointing dog of noble appearance, with a harsh coat that completely covers the skin and an attentive, energetic expression. Its movement should be powerful, far-reaching, flowing and harmonious.

General appearance

The pronounced eyebrows and well-developed beard, as harsh as possible, emphasise its determined expression. The AKC says it is slightly taller and heavier than its close relative, the German Shorthaired Pointer, and built to beat through cover all day without tiring.

The standard accepts brown roan and black roan, with or without patches, brown, with or without a white patch on the chest, and light roan. No other colour is allowed.

The standard describes it as firm, self-controlled and balanced, unafraid of game or gunfire, neither shy nor aggressive.

The AKC says it is very intelligent, responsive and eager to please, so it is usually easy to train. Early socialisation and puppy classes are recommended. It excels at hunting, obedience, tracking, agility and rally.

Tips for effective training

• Give it work. It is a very energetic hunting dog.
• Start puppy classes. The AKC recommends them for socialisation.
• Use rewards. It learns easily.
• Be careful with small animals. It has a strong hunting instinct.

The AKC says it is a high-energy sporting dog that loves outdoor activities with its people. Long walks and daily play sessions keep it healthy, while hunting and dog sports use both its mind and body.

Tips for a balanced life

• It suits a hunter or a very active family.
• The harsh coat protects it in undergrowth and in bad weather.
• The yard must be well fenced.

Coat and skin care

The AKC says the harsh, wiry coat needs little upkeep: a weekly combing and a soft slicker brush. The ears should be checked and cleaned regularly.

Common health problems

The AKC says the breed is generally healthy, but a few problems can occur:

Other care

• Check the ears after hunting.
• Look for ticks and burrs after outings.
• Trim the nails if they do not wear down on their own.

The AKC recommends good-quality food suited to its age and activity level, with fresh water always available.

Tips for a healthy diet

The table gives a starting estimate, calculated with the formula from the Merck Veterinary Manual. The first two calorie columns show the calories per day for a healthy adult dog. The last column shows what this means in dry food with 3,500–4,000 kcal per kilogram.

• Split the food into two meals a day to reduce the risk of bloat.
• Increase the portion on hunting days.
• A dog is at the right weight when you can feel its ribs under the coat without pressing hard.

Foods to avoid

Some human foods are dangerous for dogs: chocolate, coffee, grapes and raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol (a sweetener used in chewing gum), macadamia nuts and alcohol.

Physical and emotional maturity

In dogs, sexual maturity usually comes between 6 and 12 months, but in large breeds it can be delayed until about two years. The body also reaches its adult form later than in small breeds.

Mating and pregnancy

Pregnancy lasts about 63 days, counted from ovulation. Mating a female on her first heat is not recommended. The FCI standard requires that only healthy dogs of typical breed appearance are used for breeding.

Caring for the puppies

In large breeds, a litter has around 7 puppies on average. Socialisation starts in the first weeks: gentle handling, everyday noises and new people.

• Made for work. The breed's principle was “type is formed through working ability”.
• Germany's most popular large pointer. That is how the FCI standard describes it.
• A waterproof coat. The dense undercoat repels water.
• A hunter's beard. The beard and eyebrows give it a determined expression.
• Long-lived. The AKC gives a life expectancy of 14–16 years.

What does “Deutsch Drahthaar” mean?

It means “German wire-hair”.

How big does it get?

Males measure 61–68 cm and females 57–64 cm; they weigh about 23–32 kg.

How does it differ from the German Shorthaired Pointer?

It has a wiry coat, a beard and eyebrows, and it is slightly bigger.

How long does it live?

The AKC gives 14–16 years.