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German Wirehaired Pointer - Information and NZ Breed Standards

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German Wirehaired Pointer


General Information - German Wirehaired Pointer


Group:
Gundog

Size:
large

Lifespan:
12-14 years

Exercise:
very high

Grooming:
moderate

Trainability:
moderate

Watchdog ability:
very high

Protection ability:
high

Area of Origin:
Germany

Date of Origin:
1800s

Other Names:
Deutscher Drahthaariger, Vorstehund, German Pointer (Wirehaired), Drahthaargeneral

Original Function:
Hunting, watchdog



History

German Wirehaired Pointers (GWP) trace their origins back about 120 years. They originated in Germany, where breeders wanted to develop a rugged versatile hunting dog that would work closely with either one person or small group hunting on foot. This was generally over terrain varying from the mountainous Alps to dense forests, open farm area and small towns. The breed was also desired to have a coat that would protect the dogs when working in heavy cover or in cold water, yet was easy to maintain. Hunters wanted a dog that would locate and point upland game, track wounded game, confront tough vermin, retrieve waterfowl from land or water and also function as companion and watchdog. The primary ancestor of the GWP is a breed called the Pudelpointer. This breed is itself a cross between a German Pudel and the English Pointer. By selectively crossing the Pudelpointer to a number of hunting breeds including the Griffon, Stichelhaar, Polish Water Dog and early German Shorthaired Pointer, the breed we know today as the German Wirehaired Pointer has evolved.

Temperament

The German Wirehaired Pointer is very affectionate, active and intelligent. Eager to learn and loyal to its family, it needs a handler who is consistent in approach. They like to be occupied and enjoy working for their owner. They are friendly with those they know, but are naturally aloof with strangers and should be socialised at an early age. They can be rather willful and they like to roam. Powerful and energetic they can become bored and hard to manage without enough exercise. The GWP is a good all-around gun dog, able to hunt any sort of game on any sort of terrain. This dog has a good nose and can track, point, and retrieve on both land and water. Steady, lively and vigorous, they do best with older, considerate children. Some may try to dominate other animals but most will get along well with other dogs and household animals. They make good watchdogs.

Upkeep

Exercise is a daily requirement for this energetic hunter. At least an hour a day of exertion is recommended, and the ideal situation would combine exercise with hunting or a chance to run and explore a field. As a breed that thrives on human companionship, it does best as a house dog with access to the outdoors. Like most harsh coats, some minimal hand-stripping may occasionally be needed to maintain a sleek outline; otherwise, brushing about once a week will suffice.

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