Facts about German Wirehaired Pointer Puppies

This is an all purpose hunting dog, skilled at working in all kinds of terrain, from mountains, to forests, to water. The coarse coat that this breed has is not an accident -- it's supposed to protect a dog when working in cold water.

The breed is equally skilled at pointing and retrieving on land and in water.

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a leading gun dog in its native Germany, where it's been recognized as a distinct breed since early 1870s.

The breed was imported into the US in the 1920s.

Physical Characteristics of German Wirehaired Pointer Puppies

This is a medium-size dog with a muscular, almost square body. It has a deep chest, broad hips, and a strong back.

The head is moderately long and has a long muzzle, dark brown nose, brown eyes, and medium-size drop ears. The tail is docked to approximately two-fifths of its original length.

The German Wirehaired Pointer's most distinctive feature is its coat.

It consists of a dense undercoat and weather-resistant outer coat. The outer coat is straight, harsh, and flat. It ranges from one to two inches in length. The eyebrows, beard, and whiskers are also wiry.

The coat is liver and white, and can be spotted, roaned, or ticked. The head is liver, sometimes with a white blaze. The ears are liver.

Temperament

Wirehairs are very active, intelligent and loyal dogs. They need lots of human interaction and are happiest when included in family activities. When neglected, they may become bored and resort to destructive behavior.

They are friendly and affectionate with those they know but may be aloof and wary with strangers. They can greatly benefit from puppy socialization training.

These dogs are eager to learn and like being occupied with a task, especially if it involves performing it for its owner. They are also known to be willful and love to roam.

They get along well with other dogs and household pets.

The German Wirehaired Pointer is an excellent tracker, pointer, and a retriever, both on land and in water. It also makes a good watchdog.

Best Owner / Living Conditions

Because of its high activity level, this breed is not well suited for an apartment lifestyle. It will do best with an active family living in the suburbs.

Some German Wirehaired Pointer breeders will interview prospective owners to make sure this is the right breed for them.

Activity and Exercise

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a very active breed and needs a lot of exercise not only to stay in shape but also to prevent indoor restlessness.

It can work off the excess energy by running off leash in a safe area. If you are into jogging or bicycle riding, you can take your pet along, but always on leash.

These dogs will also enjoy going for long walks, swimming, and any game that involves retrieving.

At a minimum, take your pet for one or two long walks every day.

Grooming

The German Wirehaired Pointer is an average shedder.

Brush with a firm bristle brush several times each week. You may also want to strip dead hair every couple of months or so.

Check ears regularly to reduce chances of infections.

Bathe only when necessary.

Health Concerns

Like all dog breeds, the German Wirehaired Pointer is susceptible to complications caused by parasites such as dog ticks, fleas, and puppy worms, including tapeworms, roundworms, and heartworms.

Additional health concerns include hip dysplasia, ear infections, genetic eye disease, and skin cancers. Visit dog health problems to learn more about these diseases.

To reduce the risk of the above and many other health problems, buy only from reputable German Wirehaired Pointer breeders (visit dog breeders to learn how to identify responsible dog breeders).

No matter how small the risk of health problems is, any puppy may get sick or injured. Many health problems will require an immediate attention from your Vet, but there are many others that will not, and you may handle them on your own.

To save time and money, learn how to diagnose and treat dog health problems that don't require your Vet's attention.

Life Expectancy

The average life expectancy for a healthy German Wirehaired Pointer puppy is between 12 and 14 years.

Did you ever consider adopting your next pet?

If this is the breed you are interested in, and adoption appeals to you, consider contacting your local German Wirehaired Pointer rescue. There are thousands of pets waiting for a loving home and, yes, it's possible to adopt a purebred dog.