GERMAN WIREHAIRED POINTER
APPEARANCE
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a well muscled, large sized dog of distinctive appearance. Balanced in size and sturdily built, the breed’s most distinguishing characteristics are its weather resistant, wire-like coat and its facial furnishings. The coloring of the coat is usually liver and white, although some can be solid liver or may have black in place of liver. The German Wirehaired Pointer weighs in at 50-70 pounds, and the height is around 22-24 inches for females and 24-26 inches for males.
PERSONALITY
The German Wirehaired Pointer is very affectionate, active and intelligent. Eager to learn and loyal to its family, it needs a handler who is consistent in approach. German Wirehaired Pointers are happiest and most well behaved when they are part of the family and can spend time with their people. They can be rather willful and they like to roam.
TRAINING
Though highly intelligent and able to learn, the German Wirehaired Pointer has a stubborn streak that will make training difficult at times; a firm, consistent hand is necessary to keep this dog in line.Short training sessions will be needed and firm consistency will be the only way this breed will learn. German Wirehaired Pointers excel in agility, tracking, retrieving, and hunting.
EXERCISE
The German Wirehaired Pointer’s exercise requirements are considerable, and the dog needs to be able to run and play for at least an hour every day. It is important they have vigorous exercise. This breed requires an active family. They make wonderful jogging companions and enjoy swimming.
SOCIALIZATION
The German Wirehaired Pointers do best with older, considerate children; very affectionate with its master and can become jealous. Some may try to dominate other animals but most will get along well with other dogs and household animals. They are friendly with those they know, but are naturally aloof with strangers and should be socialized at an early age.
LIVING CONDITIONS
The German Wirehaired Pointers are not recommended for apartment life as they can be high strung and active indoors. They are ideal for those who have a large yard and they need a lot of space and room to run.
GROOMING
The German Wirehaired Pointer does not shed too much and requires a weekly brushing; stripping the coat a few times a year is also a good idea to maintain the dog’s clean appearance. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary. You should check the ears regularly too in order to reduce the chances of infections and for hygiene reasons. These dogs are medium shedders, and may not be suitable for those with allergies.
HEALTH ISSUES
The German Wirehaired Pointer has a life expectancy of around 10-12 years. They are prone to hip dysplasia, ear infections, genetic eye disease and skin cancers. Generally this is a healthy breed which doesn’t inherit many genetic diseases.
HISTORY
The German Wirehaired Pointer trace their origins back about 120 years. They originated in Germany, where breeders wanted to develop a rugged and versatile hunting dog. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1959.
