Dog Breeds > Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is an excellent family pet and an extremely skilled hunter as well. Whether an individual decides to keep this breed as either hunting companion or as a pet, you will never be disappointed with this dog’s charm.

Energy Playfulness Intelligence Grooming Popularity

Fascinating Facts

In an attempt to create a versatile hunting dog that could work in all kinds of terrain, a Dutchman breeder named Edward Korthal crossed the French and German pointers, German Griffon, Setters, Spaniels and Barbets. In less than 20 years, he attained the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon and subsequently formed the Griffon Club of America in 1916.

The resulting breed achieved such excellent nose that is perfect for hunting small games such as quails and rabbits. Because of its refined hunting instincts, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is also referred to as “the supreme gun dog”. 

Physical Appearance

The standard size and weight of an adult Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is 20 – 24 inches and 50 – 60 pounds respectively. The head is proportional to the size of the body; rounded when viewed on top but looks square when viewed sideways. It has brown nose with considerably wide nostrils. The neck of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is muscular. There is no dewlap or hanging loose skin.

The body size is longer than it is tall. The legs are strong especially the front ones. The feet are small and webbed. Normally, the dewclaws are removed as early as puppyhood. There are owners/trainers/handlers in the United States that docks the tail of their Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. The coat is medium length, thick and soft texture that protects them from bad weather and thick harsh brush when hunting. The color of the coat includes roan or chestnut brown. There are times that white and orange and white and brown are seen. 

Grooming

Twice a week brushing or combing is the recommended grooming care for the soft and thick coat of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. Bathe if necessary. This breed sheds little to no hair at all but needs to be stripped so that new hair can grow. Also, check for burrs and ticks on the whole body especially under the ears to avoid skin and ear problems.

Mood

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is noted for its loyalty and skillful hunting instincts. Because of this, they became very good trackers and gundogs. This breed is also lovely, friendly and very active. If trained properly, they can get well along with other dogs and animals in the house.

This breed could become nervous, aloof and timid and reserved to strangers if not trained properly. They would even chase other household animals, bite strangers and display bad attitude. They could also become disoriented when faced with unfamiliar situations. Early socialization and firm obedience training is necessary.

With Children

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a passionate dog that loves children around it. They could spend long hours of playtime especially if the game involves running.

Training & Exercise

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is easy to train because of its willingness to learn and involve itself to their master’s activities. Food reward training methods works well with this breed especially if they are distracted or if their hunting instincts are taking over.

For the hunting dogs, exercise should be given the utmost importance. 2 – 3 hours of daily walking or jogging is enough to make the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon satisfied. As much as possible, give them time to swim freely so that they could retain their swimming abilities.

Health & Life Expectancy

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon can live from 10 – 12 years depending on how well this breed is taken care of. This breed lives generally healthy but there are reports that hip dysplasia manifested.

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