German Wirehaired Pointer

• ExerciseVery high

  Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment12–14 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Elbow dysplasia · Entropion

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a versatile hunting breed built to point, track, retrieve and work in any terrain or weather. It is intelligent, energetic and loyal, bonding strongly with its family while tending to be aloof and watchful with strangers, which gives it a natural guarding streak. Affectionate and lively with its own people, it wants to be involved and does not do well left alone or ignored. This is a high-drive dog that needs substantial daily exercise and a job to do — running, hunting, fetch, swimming, hiking and dog sports all suit its stamina and intelligence. Under-exercised GWPs become restless and mischievous. They are quick learners with an independent, sometimes stubborn streak, so early socialization and consistent, positive training are important to shape a well-mannered adult. The harsh wire coat is fairly low-maintenance, needing weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping, with attention to the beard and ears kept clean. The breed is generally robust, with hip and elbow dysplasia, eye conditions such as entropion and ear infections among the concerns. Given real work and companionship, the German Wirehaired Pointer is a hardy, devoted partner.

• How much exercise does a German Wirehaired Pointer need?

  Very high. Thrives with a job, sport or serious daily exercise.

• How much grooming does a German Wirehaired Pointer need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a German Wirehaired Pointer suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a German Wirehaired Pointer a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do German Wirehaired Pointer live?

  12–14 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the German Wirehaired Pointer?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Entropion. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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