A happy and loving dog, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has both humor and energy to spare. The dog breed has been called the “4-wheel drive of hunting dogs” as they can cover all kinds of terrain and enter underbrush or briars without any hesitation. These dogs make good retrievers in water and pointers on land.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: France
Used for: Hunting, pointing, retrieving, companion
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Color: Steel gray with brown or roan markings
Coat: Harsh, wiry outer coat, soft and dense undercoat
Average Height: 20-24 inches
Average Weight: 50-60 pounds
Group: Sporting
History and Domestication
The exact origins of this breed are uncertain but Griffon-like dogs have existed throughout history. However, the modern history has been well documented as the breed was developed near the end of the 19the century. Dutchman Eduard Korthals wanted a dg that could cover all kinds of terrain and accompany him on his hunting expeditions. Thus he started a breeding program and the versatile Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was developed.
Standard Physical Characteristics
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a medium-sized hunting dog. Te skull is slightly rounded at the top but looks square from side. The head is in proportion to the body with a slight stop. The brown nose has wide and open nostrils. The round eyes are large and range from yellow to brown in color. The ears are medium in size and hang down at eye level and lie flat against the head. The long neck has no dewlap.
Care, Grooming and Health
The harsh coat needs to be brushed and combed once or twice a week. Stripping and trimming is also needed. The ears should be cleaned and plucked in order to avoid ear infections. These dogs shed little or no hair but need to be stripped to allow new hair to grow.
These dogs are high on energy and need to be taken out on long, brisk walks or runs. These dogs make excellent jogging companions. They also love swimming. Do not let them become bored or they may display behavioral problems. This is a fairly hardy breed but some lines are prone to hip dysplasia.
Living Conditions
This breed is not recommended for apartments. Although they can live outdoors and in kennels, they do much better living inside the house with the family. They need a large yard where they can run and play. This breed thrives on working with his people.
Temperament
This energetic and versatile dog is often described as a “supreme gundog”. These dogs make amusing companions and their sense of humor is sure to crack everybody up. They make loyal and devoted family pets and are loving and accepting of everyone around. These are intelligent and energetic dogs and make excellent trackers. The exceptionally fine sense of smell and ability to point and retrieve in every terrain makes these dogs great companions for hunters. These dogs can be trained easily as they are willing and eager to please.
