Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons live 12 to 14 years. Hip dysplasia and certain eye conditions occur in the breed. Otitis externa, ear infections, are common given their floppy ears and love of water. Source from health tested breeders and request hip and eye clearances. Annual vet visits with ear checks keep most Griffons healthy throughout their active life.

Your Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has a harsh, wiry coat that needs brushing two to three times a week. Check ears after every field session or swim since moisture buildup leads to infection fast. Hand strip once or twice a year to maintain proper coat texture. Bathe monthly or after heavy field use.

Your Wirehaired Pointing Griffon needs at least 60 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. Field work, swimming, and running match their athletic, versatile nature. They are exceptional water dogs and love to swim. Without consistent activity they become restless. This breed thrives as an active hunting companion.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are intelligent, eager to please, and highly trainable with positive reinforcement. They bond closely to their handler and work best with a calm, consistent owner. Start socialization and field training early. They develop pointing and retrieving instincts naturally and excel as versatile hunting dogs.

Feed a quality medium to large breed formula twice daily calibrated to your dog activity level. Hunting dogs in the field need more calories than lightly active pets. Monitor body condition monthly. Fresh water is essential especially after field sessions and swimming.

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was developed in the 1870s by Dutch breeder Eduard Karel Korthals, who spent two decades crossing multiple gun dog breeds to create the ideal versatile hunting companion capable of pointing, tracking, and retrieving on both land and water in any terrain. Korthals called the result the supreme gun dog. The breed arrived in North America in the 1900s and the AKC recognized it in 1916. Today it remains a favorite among hunters who want one dog that does everything.