German Wirehaired Pointer
Updated December 1, 2025
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a versatile and robust gundog, bred to locate and retrieve game on both land and water. They are known for their intelligence, high energy levels, and strong prey drive. In a home environment, they are loyal and affectionate companions for active families.
Intelligent, Loyal, Energetic, Affectionate, Eager to Please
50-70 pounds
22-26 inches
12-14 years
Liver and White, Black and White, Solid Liver
At a Glance
Good with Kids
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About German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a versatile and robust gundog, bred to locate and retrieve game on both land and water. They are known for their intelligence, high energy levels, and strong prey drive. In a home environment, they are loyal and affectionate companions for active families.
What Makes German Wirehaired Pointers Special
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a driven and determined hunting dog with a distinctive look and a loyal heart. They are built for endurance and can work over any type of terrain. When not in the field, they are affectionate and playful family members who form strong bonds with their owners.
German Wirehaired Pointer History & Origin
The German Wirehaired Pointer was developed in Germany in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The goal was to create a versatile hunting dog that could work in all weather and terrain. Breeders crossed various German pointing breeds, including the Pudelpointer, Griffon, and Stichelhaar, to achieve the desired traits, particularly the weather-resistant wire coat.
The breed was created by a group of German breeders who wanted a supreme all-around gundog.
The official breed club in Germany, the Verein Deutsch-Drahthaar, was established in 1902.
The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1959.
The German Wirehaired Pointer is still highly regarded as a versatile hunting companion in both Germany and the United States.
German Wirehaired Pointer Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
German Wirehaired Pointer Appearance
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a medium to large, well-muscled dog with a noble appearance. Their most striking feature is their harsh, wiry coat and facial furnishings, including a beard and eyebrows. They have a confident and alert expression.
Physical Features
Ears
Medium-sized, rounded, and hanging close to the head.
Eyes
Oval in shape, brown in color, conveying an intelligent and lively expression.
Nose
Large, brown, and well-pigmented.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The outer coat is about one to two inches long.
Coat Color
The coat is typically liver and white, either spotted, roan, or ticked. Solid liver and black and white variations also exist.
Tail
The tail is set high and is usually docked to about two-fifths of its original length where permissible.
German Wirehaired Pointer Temperament
German Wirehaired Pointers are known for their high energy and intelligence, making them eager and capable learners. They are loyal and affectionate with their families but can be aloof with strangers, making them good watchdogs. Their hunting instincts are strong, and they thrive on having a job to do, whether it's hunting, hiking, or participating in dog sports. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial for this breed to ensure they are well-behaved companions. They require a significant amount of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
German Wirehaired Pointers are generally healthy, with a life expectancy of 12 to 14 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. Responsible breeders will screen their stock for these issues.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and appropriate exercise can help maintain good health. Screening for genetic conditions is recommended.
How to Care for a German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a high-energy breed that requires a great deal of exercise and mental stimulation. Their grooming needs are moderate, but their coat requires specific care. They are generally healthy but can be prone to certain genetic conditions.
Grooming
The German Wirehaired Pointer has a wiry, weather-resistant double coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its texture and health. Weekly brushing is recommended to remove loose hair and prevent matting. The coat may need to be hand-stripped a couple of times a year to maintain its harsh texture, especially for show dogs. Baths should be given only when necessary to avoid stripping the natural oils from the coat. Their nails should be trimmed regularly, and their ears checked and cleaned to prevent infections.
Training
German Wirehaired Pointers are intelligent and eager to please, which makes them highly trainable. However, they can also be independent and stubborn, so consistent and patient training from an early age is essential. Positive reinforcement techniques work best with this breed. Socialization with other dogs and people should begin in puppyhood to ensure they grow into well-adjusted adults. Due to their high energy and intelligence, they excel in various dog sports such as obedience, agility, and field trials.
Diet
A high-quality dog food formulated for active, large-breed dogs is recommended for the German Wirehaired Pointer. The amount of food will depend on the dog's age, size, activity level, and metabolism. It is typically recommended to feed them two meals a day to prevent bloat, a serious health condition to which this breed can be prone. Fresh water should always be available.
Exercise
This is a very active breed that requires at least an hour of vigorous exercise every day. They make excellent companions for runners, hikers, and bikers. They also love to swim. In addition to physical exercise, they need mental stimulation to keep them from becoming bored and destructive. Activities that engage their minds, such as puzzle toys, obedience training, and scent work, are highly recommended.
Environment
German Wirehaired Pointers are not well-suited for apartment living. They thrive in a home with a large, securely fenced yard where they can run and play. They do best with active owners who can provide them with the exercise and mental stimulation they need. They are adaptable to various climates but their dense coat provides good insulation in colder weather.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A home with a large, securely fenced yard is best.
Climate Adaptability
Adaptable, but their coat offers good protection in cold weather.
Apartment Living
Not suitable for apartment living.
Best Suited For
Best for active owners or families who love outdoor activities.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are German Wirehaired Pointers good family dogs?
Yes, they can be good family dogs for active families. They are loyal and affectionate but may have too much energy for very young children.
How much do German Wirehaired Pointers shed?
They are considered moderate shedders. Regular brushing helps to manage loose hair.
How much exercise do German Wirehaired Pointers need?
They are a high-energy breed and require at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily.
Are German Wirehaired Pointers easy to train?
They are intelligent and trainable but can be independent. Consistent training with positive reinforcement is effective.
Do German Wirehaired Pointers get along with other pets?
They can get along with other pets if raised with them, but their strong prey drive may be an issue with smaller animals.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization and training are crucial. Provide appropriate nutrition for a growing large breed.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to their ability. Monitor for joint issues and maintain a healthy weight.
First-Time Owner Tips
May not be the best choice for first-time owners due to their high energy and training needs.
Looking for a German Wirehaired Pointer?
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