The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is an intelligent, loyal and playful breed that is perfect for active households looking for a four-legged companion. This medium-sized dog stands around 21 to 24 inches tall and weighs between 45 and 60 pounds, making them the ideal size for a family pet.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is originally from the Netherlands and was bred as a gun dog. They are happy to work or play, but need pleny of activity to keep their minds and bodies healthy and active. This breed loves being outdoors, so they make great walking or hiking buddies!
Their coat is wiry and weatherproof, giving them protection from the elements. It also requires regular maintenance to keep it in tip-top condition. Weekly brushing will help remove dead hairs from the coat, while ‘stripping’ of the coat should be done periodically in order to keep it looking its best.
This hardworking breed has an independent streak which makes them perfect as hunting companions or as guard dogs. They’re also very loyal to their owners, making them great family pets too! However, they can be quite protective of their territory so early socialization is recommended in order to ensure that they grow up confident and well-adjusted.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons love spending time with their people and are always up for a game or an adventure outdoors! If you’re looking for an outgoing pup with plenty of energy who will always be there when you need them, then the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon could be just what you’re looking for!
Are Wirehaired Griffons Suitable Family Pets?
Yes, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are excellent family dogs. They have a friendly and loving nature that makes them great companions for children of all ages. Their playful and energetic personality will keep everyone in the family entertained and engaged. Additionally, their excellent sense of smell makes them great gundogs for hunting trips with the family. They are also easy to train and respond well to positive reinforcement. Overall, they make wonderful family pets as long as they receive plenty of attention, physical activity, and mental stimulation.
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Do German Wirehaired Griffons Shed?
No, German Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are considered a low-shedding breed. Although they don’t shed much, their coats do require regular maintenance in order to keep them looking their best. To help keep shedding to a minimum, weekly brushing is recommended, as well as ‘stripping’ of the coat periodically to remove old hair.
Are Wirehaired Pointing Griffons Aggressive?
No, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are not typically aggressive. They can become territorial with other dogs, but they are generally friendly and protective of their humans. Their vigilant nature makes them excellent watchdogs, but they are usually not the type to start a fight. Instead, they will alert their owners to any potential danger and may even bark or growl to protect them. With proper socialization from an early age, a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon can be a loyal and loving companion for many years.
Do Wirehaired Pointing Griffons Bark Excessively?
No, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons do not necessarily bark a lot. They can be quite vocal but this is usally because they are seeking attention and stimulation. If they are given regular opportunities to explore and exercise, and if their mental and physical needs are met, barking should not be an issue.
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Do Wirehaired Pointers Shed?
Wirehaired pointers are considered average shedders, meaning that they will shed some fur all year round. However, their coats are relatively easy to maintain; regular brushing a couple of times per week, occasional stripping and bathing as needed should be enough to keep their coat healthy and looking its best.
Do Wirehaired Pointing Griffons Require Grooming?
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons do not need haircuts, but there are a few areas that may need some maintenance. It is advised to lightly round the feet and clip the hair betwen the paw pads. Trimming up the sanitary areas, such as around the genitals and anus, is also necessary to keep your Griffon clean and comfortable. If desired, you can also trim away any excess hair from their face or body for a more polished look. However, it’s important to note that clipping their coat should only be done if requested by the owner as it can drastically change the texture of their coat and disrupt its natural weatherproofing abilities.
The Cost of Owning a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons typically cost between $1,000 and $2,000. However, the exact price can vary depending on pedigree and the breeder. Generally, if you are buying a puppy from a reputable breeder who specializes in Wirehaired Pointing Griffons, you should expect to pay at least $1,000. Additionally, some breeders may charge more for puppies with show-quality pedigrees and breeding lines. It is also important to remember that the cost of owning a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon extends beyond the initial purchase price; regular veterinary care and grooming will add to your overall costs.
The Rarity of Wirehaired Pointing Griffons
Yes, wirehaired pointing griffons are ineed very rare. The breed originated in the Netherlands in the late 1800s and was developed to be a versatile hunter and pointer. It is believed that only about 500 Korthals griffons exist worldwide, and they are rarely seen outside of Europe. In fact, this breed was so rare that in the early 2000s, it was listed as a “Vulnerable Native Breed” by The Kennel Club of England. This recognition has helped promote the breed and ensure its survival. The remarkable qualities of this breed make it highly sought after, with some people even waiting years for a pup. With such limited numbers, it is no surprise that wirehaired pointing griffons are considered one of the rarest breeds in existence today.
The Intelligence of Griffons
Yes, Griffons are intelligent dogs. They learn quickly and have a strong sense of curiosity and problem-solving skills. Griffons are knon for their independent nature, so it is important to use positive reinforcement when training them. This means rewarding them with treats or praise for good behavior rather than punishing them for bad behavior. With patience, consistency and plenty of praise, Griffons can be taught basic commands and tricks.
Do Wirehaired Pointing Griffons Have Webbed Feet?
Yes, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons have webbed feet. This is a trait that sets them apart from other pointing breeds and helps them be better swimmers. The webbing between their toes allows them to move quickly through water and helps them stay on top of the water rather than being pulled down by the weight of their fur. This also provides better traction on slippery surfaces. Additionally, any dewclaws are usually removed, and some owners dock the tail to about half of its original length.
Conclusion
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a smart, loyal and loving breed that makes an ideal family pet or gundog. They are low-shedding compared to other breeds and require brushing weekly in order to keep their coat healthy. They possess a strong sense of protectiveness over their family and need regular opportunities to exercise in order to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. With the right training and plety of love, this breed can make a wonderful addition to any active family.
