Reece Kennels

History

German Wirehaired Pointers trace their origins back to the late 1800s. They originated in Germany, where breeders wanted to develop a rugged, versatile hunting dog that would work closely with either one person or a small party of people hunting on foot in varied terrain; from the mountainous regions of the Alps, to the dense forests, to more open areas with farms and small towns. The breed the Germans desired had to have a coat that would protect the dogs when working in heavy cover or in cold water, yet be easy to maintain. The goal was to develop a wire-coated, medium-sized dog that could search for, locate and point upland game; work both feather and fur with equal skill; retrieve waterfowl; be a close-working, easily trained gun dog; be able to track and locate wounded game; be fearless when hunting “sharp” game as fox; be a devoted companion and pet; and, be a watchdog for its owners’ gamily and property. In 1959, the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club and the German Wirehaired Pointer Club of America (GWPCA) was established. Today, the German wirehaired pointer is one of the most popular dogs in Germany, where it is known as the Drahthaar. It came to America in the 1920s and achieved AKC recognition in 1959.

Health Concerns for GWP's

Generally GWPs are healthy, long-lived dogs, with many individuals reaching 14-16 years of age. As with any large-breed dog, hip dysplasia may be a concern. Buyers should verify that the breeder of their new pup has screened for this crippling joint disease and that the dog’s family includes animals that are certified by OFA (the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) or PennHip. Additional genetic testing which reputable breeders conduct may include OFA thyroid, elbow dysplasia, cardiac clearances, CERF and Von Willebrand’s Disease. For more information on any of these diseases, visit www.offa.org

How Much Upkeep is Needed?

Exercise is a daily requirement for this energetic dog and a fenced in area is a must. The ideal situation would be to combine exercise with hunting or some type of activity to stimulate his/her mind. As a breed that thrives on human companionship, it does best as a house-dog with access to the outdoors. GWP's also need to be taught basic obedience and socialized early to other dogs and humans. Since German Wirehaired Pointers have a harsh wiry coat minimal hand-stripping may occasionally be needed. Also because of this wiry coat shedding is minimum.

Do GWP's Shed Much?

The GWP retains several characteristics of its Pudel ancestors: high degree of intelligence, trainability, biddability, and excellent water retrieving ability. And, delightfully, a coat that sheds only lightly year-round. GWP's do not shed drastically or "blow" their coat twice a year like many breeds. All dogs do shed, however, GWP's shed at a rate that is not normally very noticeable.

A GWP with a correct coat requires only a minimum of grooming to remain neat and presentable. A correct coat is harsh; lies flat, tight and close to the skin; and is about 1 to 2 inches long on the body. A correct coat is also water repellent, permitting the dog to dry quickly after a bath or a swim.

What Are Their Temperaments Like?

The GWP is a complex breed. Intelligence, strong desire to please, sharpness are all qualities that make up the typical GWP. Many, GWP's have a clown-like side to their personalities. They can be active, busy dogs that amuse themselves with various games. Along with the intelligence and will the Wirehair possesses, the breed also has the capability to be very creative and somewhat independent. They prefer to work for who they like and will very often create their own rules of engagement. Wirehairs generally are a high energy, high drive, though not “hyper”, breed and the need for a “job” is a must! Even if the job description includes only retrieving newspapers and slippers, this breed needs to be given meaningful work.

It is their intelligence, however, that can become the GWP's downfall. Without interaction with their family, GWP's can become easily bored. Without mental stimulus, they can become destructive and noisy in their attempt to "find something to do." Because of their desire to please, the GWP does not require nor respond well to harsh or heavy-handed training. Most truly do not like to be 'on the outs' with their people, and can be corrected with a sharp 'NO!' A GWP that is treated harshly or roughly may completely turn off, becoming fearful, sulky and/or remote, or may become a biter.

In general, there are few more loving or interesting breeds.

Do German Wirehaired Pointers Make Good Family Pets?

GWP's are extremely devoted dogs. When raised in a home with one owner, they become very definite one-person dogs. When raised in a home with several people, including children, they become devoted to the whole family, although some dogs may attach more strongly to one member of the household.

GWP's make superb companion dogs and pets. In fact, they crave human companionship, doing best in a home where they are permitted a very warm, close relationship with 'their people'. They are one Sporting Breed that does not make a good kennel dog, nor a dog that lives all its life in a backyard with little contact with humans.

Do They Make Good Watch Dogs?

The typical GWP craves human companionship. The breed is also primarily a hunting dog. For these reasons, they are not recommended as candidates for formal guard dog training and work.

However, because of the GWP's personality to be aloof towards strangers they do let their owners know when a stranger is on the property. It is important to note that "aloof" does not mean "vicious." An adult GWP will be reserved or "aloof" with strangers, but they should by no means be aggressive toward people.

How is a GWP Different From a German Shorthair Pointer?

Other than the obvious difference of coat the two breeds are very different. While both breeds originated at about the same time, with the GSP slightly older, each was developed from distinctly different root stock. These difference not only make the two breeds different in coat texture and facial furnishings but they have different temperament and personality. GWP's have known to be more aloof towards strangers and more protective over their owners. They also have a calmer demeanor and not as hyper as a GSP.

Quick Facts

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