The German Wirehair Pointer Dog is also referred to as “Gebirgsschweißhund,” which translates to “high mountain scent dog.” Originally bred by monks in Germany, this breed was used for hunting, but it has since been used for a variety of sporting activities. More recently, it has been used to help disabled people get their navigation.
The German wirehaired pointer originated in Germany in 1880. Baron Sigismund von Zedlitz und Neukirch wanted to create a versatile hunting dog that would work closely with either one person or a small party of persons hunting on foot in varied terrain; from the mountainous regions of the Alps to dense forests, to more open areas with farms and small towns.
The German wirehaired pointer is a medium to large dog that was developed in the 19th century in Germany. This breed of dog is a result of careful mixing and crossing of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, German shorthaired pointer, German Roughhaired Pointer, and the hunting Pudelpointer in the late 1800s. Although they were bred for hunting purposes, they are also great family dogs today.
In the late 1800s, German dog breeders wanted a dog that would be able to withstand harsh elements while hunting. They needed a dog that had a coat that could protect the dogs when working in heavy cover or in cold water but was also easy to maintain.
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Physical Appearance of The German Wirehair Pointer Dog
The German wirehaired pointer is a medium-sized, square dog. The body is well-muscled and strong. The chest is deep and broad, with the ribs well sprung behind the arched back. Its feet are of moderate size with toes that are slightly arched and tight. Its ears are small, thin, and mobile.
German wirehair is a breed that has a wiry, medium-length coat with an, especially dense and woolly undercoat. The tail is coated on the underside but does not have any feathers. Eyebrows are of strong straight hair, and whiskers are medium in length. When the dog is evaluated at a moderate gait, free and smooth with good reach in forequarter and hindquarter the movement is smooth. It has a straight back and strong loin, which contributes to the dog’s good movement. The thighs are muscular and the hocks well let down. The German Wirehair’s feet are cat-like with tufts between the toes.
The German wirehaired pointer is a versatile gundog who prefers to be busy. Standing as high as 26 inches at the shoulder, GWPs are a bit taller and heavier than their close relative, the German shorthaired pointer. Combined with its moderate build, this dog’s wire-coated appearance allows it to blend into the surrounding.
German wirehaired pointers come in a wide variety of different coat colors. They are liver-colored, brownish red, white with black spots, white with liver patches, and solid liver.
Behavior
The German Wirehaired pointer is friendly, lively, likes to work hard, and is very intelligent. It needs a handler that is consistent with its training approach. They like to be occupied, are very vigorous, and enjoy working for their owners. They are friendly with those they know, but are sometimes aloof with strangers and should be socialized at an early age.
German Wirehaired pointers are best suited for the family who will spend time with them. This dog is rather willful and can be difficult to train. Some dogs roam, so they should be kept in a fenced yard. They love to be active and need plenty of exercises.
Training and Caring
The German Wirehair is an active breed. It needs daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep it happy. The breed is very devoted to its family and makes a great companion animal. Some harsh coats may require occasional professional grooming to maintain a sleek outline. Otherwise, brushing about once a week is enough to keep them looking great. They are low shedders.
The German Wirehaired breed of dog is known to be energetic, smart, and playful. This breed makes a great family pet as they are active, but also have a sweet temperament. Conversely, the German Wirehair’s coat may require an owner with a sense of humor as it can easily become matted or tangled.
Health
German Wirehaired Pointers are generally healthy dogs, there are health and genetic screening considerations. Hip dysplasia, epilepsy, entropion, elbow dysplasia, heart disease, gastric torsion are all diseases that have been identified in the breed. It is recommended that potential owners be aware of these conditions to prevent future problems. Also, visit your veterinarian. The average lifespan is between 10-12 years of age.
