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Overlooked often in favor of dogs with more flash, speed or dazzle, the German Wirehaired Pointer is one of those versatile German breeds intended for virtually every task that could be asked of a field dog. While this may not leave them at the top of the class in any specialty, they are certainly fantastic companions for the family and casual hunter. With a lower key personality than many of the more popular Sporting Dogs, the German Wirehaired tends to be more relaxed, steady and often easier to train.
Physically the dog is strong, athletic and clearly ready for rugged terrain, as needed, with its harsh wirey coat.
Everyone who has ever loved a Sporting Dog, should take the time to get to know one German Wirehaired Pointer, they are, indeed, easy to love.
Colors: Liver or variations (spotted, spotted and ticked or ticked) of liver and white
Coat type: tight undercoat with harsh, abundant and full top coat that lies close to the body
Recognized Registries: FCI, UKC, AKC, NCA and others
Overall Appearance: General impression is of a square built Sporting dog with unique coat and expression (due to bushy eyebrows).
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: moderate to high
General Nature:
Easy going except when working, enthusiastic, intelligent, athletic
with Children: Generally very good but still requires proper handling, well mannered children and supervision
with other pets: Varies, remember this is a hunting dog so smaller animals may be at risk
with dogs: Generally good but can vary with individuals
Socialization requirements: moderate to high: the GWP can be inherently confident or shy socialization will help both of these states become balanced
Ideal home characteristics: One that appreciates the amount of mental and physical stimulation this dog requires to be healthy.
Temperament Notes: Dual purpose hunter that can be both friendly and aloof, very intelligent but not easy for the novice trainer to motivate and will seem stubborn to them
Training requirement: moderate to high: high work drive/ethic, high energy, socialization and basic manners as well as ongoing endeavor (hunting, agility, dockdogs, obedience, etc.)
Trainer notes: The GWP is a very agreeable and affable dog with a solid sense of self. This combination creates a training dilemma as many wouldn't consider that a novice trainer would be ill-suited for the breed since they are so agreeable but the trouble begins when the novice trainer gets "out thunk" by the dog. From there the problems get bigger as the dog continuously outthinks the trainer and the trainer gets frustrated (and then often, angry and punitive). This is not to say that the GWP is not suited for novice trainers but that the entire situation can be a much happier one if a more experience trainer is part of the effort to offer guidance and insights. The GWP is a delightful companion capable of a very complex personality (perhaps its part of being bred for dual purposes) and that is indeed one of the greatest charms of having one as a training partner and has to be appreciated as such.
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: Recognized in Germany in 1870
Country of Origin: German
Original Function: Pointer/Retriever
History: Developed as a dual purpose dog (the Germans loved versatility!) to point game and retrieve out of water (or rabbits on land).
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard: oversized, coat problems
Health Notes: hip dysplasia, eye issues, hypothyroidism, von Willebrand's Disease
Health Testing: vWD Test, Thyroid Panel, OFA and CERF
