German Wirehaired Pointer - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Origin
This is a German dog breed developed in the 19th century from the Pudelpointer. Other dogs included in the breeding process probably involved Wirehaired Pointing Griffons, Polish Water dogs, German Roughhaired Pointers and German Shorthaired Pointers. The reason why they were develop was to create versatile gundog that will be great at scenting, retrieving and pointing even in harsh climate.

2) Coat
One of the feature which enables German Wirehaired Pointers work in harsh climates is their water repellent and weather resistant coat. The coat is rough and straight and it is protecting the dog from cold temparuters or waters or from thorny bushes. You can find them in various patterns of liver and white.

3) Exercise
This is not a lap dog or couch potatoe, not at all. German Wirehaired Pointers require daily vigorous exercise, long walks or jogs or any other outdoor activity. They are always ready for any adventure with you. Regular training sessions, task oriented playtime or some dog sports like agility or tracking are amazing not only as physical exercise but also as mental stimulation.

4) GSP
The German Shorthaired Pointer is not only coat variet of Wirehaired Pointer. Those are two separate, but closely related dog breeds. You can easily tell them apart thanks to their coat, but that is not the only differnce between them. The German Wirehaired Pointer is little bit taller and heavier.

5) Loyal companions
This is extremely loyal dog breed and they make great devoted family companions. They will create very strong bond with all the family members and they want to spend a lot of time around them. This is a friendly, affectionate and lively companion.

6) Face
This dog has intelligent expression, dont you think? It is because of another distinctive feature of this breed, which is the bushy beard and eyebrows. And guess what? It serves a purpose, because it is protecting the dog's face and eyes from scratches and lacerations.

7) Size
The German Wirehaired Pointer height should be between 23-26 inches, which is 58-66 cm and weight between 60-70 pounds, which is 27-32 kg. Females are naturally little bit smaller than males.

8) Independent dog
It is true that the German Wirehaired Pointer is a smart dog, but they also have independent streak, which is why they are not pushover to train. It is also a reason why they are not the best choice for novice or first time dog owners. But if you are patient and firm leader, than they can achieve great things in training and working.

9) Maintenance
It is not hard to keep German Wirehaired Pointers coat in good condition. Brushing the coat a couple of times weekly, occasional stripping, and bathing as needed are all that is necessary to groom this dog. Just like with all dog breeds, you should regularly check their ears eyes and nails and clip them or clean them if needed.

10) Health
This is relatively healthy dog breed with average lifespan between 12-14 years, but just like all dog breed they do suffer from some health issues. Most commonly from hip dysplasia, entropion, cataracts and von Willebrands disease.