German Wire-Haired Pointer
Other names: GWP
Origin
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.
Description
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.
| Size | Large |
| Colour | The coat colors are liver and white, either with ticking, roan or spotted and sometimes a solid liver. |
| Coat Length | Medium |
| 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 | On the whole these dogs are not big eaters when you consider the amount of exercise they require. |
Feeding & Ownership
On the whole these dogs are not big eaters when you consider the amount of exercise they require.
| Food Cost | $15 to $20 |
Personality
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 |
| Suitability for Children | Medium |
| 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 | Null |
| Other Animal Compatibility | Medium |
Grooming
A low maintenance breed, these dogs require only a wipe over with a hand mitt once a week to remove loose hairs and a bath when warranted. Ears should be checked and wiped clean at least once a week.
| Grooming Requirements | Once a week |
| Amount of Hair Shed | Moderate |
Discover Other Dog Breeds
Welsh Corgi (Cardigan)