Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Overview

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a rugged, sturdy, intelligent working dog. It is always eager to please, as long as its energy reserves are properly channeled through work or play. 

But there is a great difficulty with the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon and working breeds in general. While they may be highly intelligent and excellent companions overall, their original purpose is to work all day. Most owners are unable to devote enough time to keep this breed busy, so casual owners must take this into consideration. 

Ideally, this breed should only be adopted by those who own large plots of land. The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon can live as an outdoor dog, but only if its owner spends enough time in its company. But in places with extreme weather conditions, it is best to keep this dog indoors. 

Grooming is a regular necessity, but not a chore. Weekly brushings are needed to remove dead hair, and its floppy ears need frequent cleaning to prevent infections. 

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is certainly not a dog for everyone, but not for any deficiencies in its character. It is simply too energetic and hard-working for the casual owner. But it is an excellent dog for anyone with the ability to keep it busy.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon History

While many breeds have spotty histories and estimated evolutions, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has a definitive background.  Beginning in France, 1874, dog enthusiast Edward Korthals came from Holland to create a dog with the best characteristics, both as a working dog and as a companion.  Interbreeding seven different breeds, Korthals documented his progress and heavily marketed his product in France, where it was first adopted. 

Renowned for its hunting ability, the French accepted the breed as their own and rejected its Dutch genesis.  A breed standard was drawn, and it appeared in English dog shows in 1888 under the title “Russian Setter.” 

World War II ended this breed’s popularity and it has since been unable to recover.  While not an extinct breed, it is not favored in field competitions because of its slow and precise hunting style. 

Today, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is renowned in certain circles, developing a somewhat “cult” following. 

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Character

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are highly personable dogs. They can easily form strong connections with their owners, rarely likely to stray or ignore commands. But they are also somewhat independent, not likely to suffer separation anxiety if left alone for too long. 

It is extremely loyal and an alert watchdog, well-suited for single owners or family adoption. 

Training is easy enough, but it has a clownish side that should be encouraged rather than ignored. It is friendly and playful with strangers, other dogs, and pets if socialized properly. They are gentle enough with children, but they prefer the company of responsible adults. 

Even when bored, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon steers away from rampant destruction. But it will certainly make its owner aware of any unhappiness if ignored for too long. 

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a suitable pet for active families that can put it to work.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Care

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon needs to be brushed and combed twice weekly. Professional stripping and trimming of the coat needs to be done twice a year to keep them looking their best. Bathing should only be done when absolutely necessary using a mild shampoo. It is important to keep their ears clean and free of hair. This breed is prone to hip dysplasia, elbow, eye, and thyroid problems.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Training

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon requires early socialization and obedience training. They are eager to please and quick to learn. Their keen sense of smell, love for the field, and swimming abilities make them excel in the areas of tracking and retrieving. In the show ring they do exceedingly well in agility and obedience.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Health

Common Health Issues for the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Less Common Health Issues for the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon:

Disclaimer: While we try our best to provide accurate medical reference information, it is very likely that we have errors on our website. Do not use this website to diagnose or treat your dog. Please check with your veterinarian for health advice and treatment options.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Resources