Read About Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's are intelligent and loving dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Summary:

1. Size:

   Large Dog Breed

2. Weight:

   50-60 lbs

3. Coat:

   Wire Haired

4. Shedding:

   Low Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Moderately Affectionate

6. Obedience:

   Good Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Easy to Train

8. Way with Children:

   Excellent with Children

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Sporting; 1959

2. Size & Weight:

   20-24 inches tall, 50-60 lbs

3. Coat:

   Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's have a stiff wiry coat with a thick downy undercoat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   Their head is large and long. The muzzle is square with a mustache and a beard. The ears are medium sized and lie flat against the head.

5. Body:

   Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's have average width chests, Their bodies are slightly longer than they are tall.

6. Colors:

   According to the AKC the color should be silver or steel gray with chestnut or roam markings. Solid chestnut is also acceptable.

7. Life Expectancy:

   10-12 yrs.

8. Popularity:

   In a 2005 popularity ranking by the AKC they were ranked 109 out of 154 breeds.

9. Habitat:

   The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is not recommended for apartment life. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with a large yard to run and play. These dogs crave interaction and are not suited to kennel life or being kept in a backyard.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Denmark

2. Historical Information:

   This breed originated in Denmark between 1870-1873. They were a mix of German Griffons with French and German Pointers, Spaniels, Barbets and a setter. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's are fairly rare in the United States with only 75-150 puppies born each year.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's are loving, enthusiastic and smart dogs.

2. Behavior:

   They can be nervous and excitable around strange people or animals. Early socialization is important to put them more at ease in these situations.

3. Habits:

   Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's are excellent watchdog's and love to swim.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   They are prone to hip dysplasia.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's need large amounts of exercise to stay relaxed and happy. They heed a safe place to be able to run leash free.

3. Grooming Needs:

   The stiff outercoat does not shed and needs to be stripped twice a year. The average dog owner would be better off to have this done by a professional groomer. They need to be combed and brushed 1-2 times per week. Check their ears on a regular basis and pluck any hair in the ear canals to prevent ear infections. The nails should be trimmed on an as needed basis.

4. Travel Needs:

   For the safety of yourself as well as your Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, using a safety belt harness is best while traveling in the car. This will keep him comfortable while preventing him from roaming around the car possibly causing injury to himself or others.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's are excellent with children. They get along well with other animals, however some may be nervous around strange animals. Early socialization will help with this problem.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for bright and clear eyes, healthy coat and skin and clean ears that are free of parasites.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   Things to have on hand for your new puppy are: a good puppy food, a brush for grooming, toys and a crate or kennel.

3. Puppy-proofing your house:

   Keep all small objects out of reach.

4. How to make your new puppy feel at home:

   Your new puppy may seem shy and intimidated at first. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep. Let them explore their new surroundings and get familiar with their new home. Use interactive dog toys to play with your new puppy so you can get to know each other. With lots of love and interaction your new puppy will feel at home in no time.