German Wire Haired Pointer

History and origin: The German Wire haired Pointer was developed in the late 19th century in Germany.  This breed retained the versatility of the German Short haired Pointer, but added the all-weather protection of a coarse, wiry coat, allowing him to deal with rougher hunting conditions and colder weather.

Description: The German Wire haired Pointer stands approximately 22 to 26 inches at the
shoulder and weighs between 50 and 70 pounds.  He has a strong, well-muscled body.  His medium-maintenance shedding coat is of medium length, coarse and wiry, and water resistant.  Regular brushing is required to help prevent matting.  The coat color is liver-and- white. The thin undercoat sheds out during the summer.

About the breed: This is an all-purpose hunting dog and is therefore not very adaptable to a quiet family living.  These are high- energy dogs that need lots of exercise.  They are more aloof and independent than the other pointers, exhibiting an almost terrier-like temperament.  They can be quite stubborn and are usually suspicious of strangers.  This breed is not recommended for families with young children.  He needs early obedience training as well
as early socialization with people and other dogs.  These dogs may become destructive if bored or left isolated for a long period of time, and they also bark quite a lot.  The German Wire haired Pointer's scenting ability will work against you during obedience training, particularly when you are teaching the “Come” command.  Once these pointers pick up a scent, they will ignore you completely, but this is what they are bred to do.  They are not bred to be quiet, easygoing family dogs.

Feeding: Recommended feeding for this breed is about 1 ½ – 2 ½ cans (13.3oz) of high-quality meaty product with biscuit added in equal part or 5 cupfuls of a complete, dry dog food.

Ideal home: The German Wire haired Pointer needs a house with a fenced yard.  A hunter would best be able to provide this breed with a purpose and a proper level of activity.  The owner should have good leadership skills and ample time to provide the dog with basic obedience training and socialization.  Those who are unable to deal with a busy, high-energy dog should not consider this breed.  An owner who jogs might find this breed to be an excellent running partner because of his lithe, muscular body.