German Wirehaired Pointer

Dog Breed Profile

Home Dog Breeds Sporting German Wirehaired Pointer

German Wirehaired Pointer History

The German Wirehaired Pointer (Deutsche Kurzhaar, or DK), also known as the Deutsch Kurzhaar (DKH), is a popular scenthound that originated in Germany. It is closely related to the American Foxhound and many other pointing breeds. The ancestor of all the modern wirehairs, including the German Shorthaired Pointer and the Irish Setter, is believed to have been a white, long-haired pointer that was brought to Germany in the 15th century. From the 16th century, the German Wirehaired Pointer was selectively bred and developed into a versatile gundog. The name “wire hair” refers to the type of coat that the wirehaired pointer has; a wire-haired coat is wiry and harsh to the touch, but glossy and silky when dry. The fur of this breed is also quite long and reaches the floor, making the wirehaired pointers one of the most elegant-looking of all hounds.

Time of Origin

1800s

Country of Origin

Germany

Ancestry

Unknown

German Wirehaired Pointer Physical Characteristics

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a medium-sized, long-haired breed of gundog. They are primarily used for hunting purposes, but are also trained for a variety of other roles. They have an elongated, slightly arched and very muscular body with broad, deep chests. Their heads are large with a prominent, sturdy, wedge-shaped muzzle. They have dark eyes and a thick, short, wiry coat that is rough to the touch.

Eye Colors

Brown

Nose Colors

Unknown

Coat Colors

Unknown

Height Range

Male Height Range: 24 – 27 inches

Female Height Range: 22 – 25 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 60 – 71 lbs

Female Weight Range: 55 – 71 lbs

German Wirehaired Pointer Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

12-14 yrs

German Wirehaired Pointer Health Concerns

Entropion, Hip Dysplasia, Von Willebrand’s Disease, Cataracts

German Wirehaired Pointer Temperament and Behaviour

The German Wirehaired Pointer is an energetic, athletic, and fun-loving breed of dog. They are extremely friendly and sociable, but can sometimes be stubborn and headstrong. They are very friendly with new people and animals, but may be aggressive towards unfamiliar dogs and small animals.

German Wirehaired Pointer Activity Requirements

German Wirehaired Pointers, also known as the Drahthaar, are an athletic, versatile hunting dog. They are strong, intelligent, and hardworking. German Wirehaired Pointers do best when they have a job to do. They are happiest when they have a routine that includes lots of exercise and mental stimulation. To keep your German Wirehaired Pointer happy, you will need set aside time every day for walks or runs. Interactive games like fetch and Frisbee are also good ways to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle. The German Wirehaired Pointer is a high-energy, athletic, and versatile hunting dog. They need plenty of activity and room to romp. If you are looking for a very energetic, dedicated companion, the German Wirehaired Pointer may be the perfect breed for you.

Miles Per Day

Unknown

Activity Per Day

Unknown

Daily Food

2.5 cups

Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club

Recognized by the American Kennel Club

German Wirehaired Pointer is part of the Sporting group.

Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club

Recognized by The Kennel Club

German Wirehaired Pointer is part of the Gundog group.

Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council

Recognized by the Australian National Kennel Council

German Wirehaired Pointer is part of the Gundog group.

Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club

Recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club

German Wirehaired Pointer is part of the Sporting group.

Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.