Other Names: GWP
Country of Origin: Germany
Dog Group: Gundog
The German Wirehaired Pointer was developed in Germany in the beginning of the 20th century by crossing the German Shorthair Pointer with the Griffon, Stichelhaar (a dog that was developed by crossing the Pointer, Foxhound, Pudelpointer, and Polish water dog) and the Pudelpointer (a dog that was a cross between the Poodle and Pointer). The dogs were able to point, track, retrieve, and work as a gun-dog, in both field and water for both feather and fur.
A noble appearance with an expressive, often determined-looking face, the GWP is a double-coated breed, the harsh outer coat developed in order to protect the skin from thick brush and scrub. The 'wirey' hair completely covers the dog, with a 'beard' apparent below the jaw. The dense undercoat becomes more prevalent in winter.
Colour
The coat colors are liver and white, either with ticking, roan or spotted and sometimes a solid liver.
Coat Length
Medium
Age Expectancy
10 - 12 Years
Weight/Height Range
On average dogs stand at 60 - 64cms at the withers and weigh 31 - 34kgs, bitches average at 58 - 62cms from the withers and weigh 29 - 32kgs.
Ailments
Some GWP are prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, genetic eye disease and skin cancers.
Common Ailments
-
Breed Classification
-
On the whole these dogs are not big eaters when you consider the amount of exercise they require.
Food Cost
$15- 20
Other Expenses
-
The German Wirehaired Pointer is different in both appearance and temperament to its short-haired cousin. The GWP is more aloof towards strangers and protective in temperament. Eager to learn and loyal to their family, they like to be occupied and enjoy working for their owner. They are friendly with those they know, but can be distant with strangers and should be socialised, preferably at an early age.
Intelligence
Intelligent but early training is essential. The breed is quite headstrong, and without training may otherwise become a handful through later life. The breed can be late to mature and requires sufficient exercise to burn off the excess energy.
Energy
High
Tendency to bark
Medium
Overall Exercise Requirement
This dog is extremely energetic and tireless. It is very important that it gets daily vigorous exercise to prevent them from becoming high-strung with extreme indoor restlessness.
Suitability as a guard dog
Medium
Ease of Transportation
High
Level of Aggression
-
Other animal compatibility
-
The coat of the German Wirehaired Pointer should be brushed about twice a week with a firm bristle brush. The coat needs some stripping, but is not hard to learn how to do. The hairs should be hand plucked occasionally depending on the condition of the coat. It is usually thinned in the spring and fall. Bathe only when necessary. The hair of the coat should be as hard as possible but must not look untidy. Check the ears to make sure they are clean. The feet should be checked after the dog has been out working.
Grooming Requirements
Twice a week
Trimming Requred
-
Tendency to shed hair
Average