Decoding the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon: A Complete Breed Guide

A Breed Apart: The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, often affectionately called a “Griff,” is a distinctive and charming breed known for their intelligence, affectionate nature, and, of course, their signature wiry coat. They are medium-sized dogs, bred to be versatile hunting companions, equally adept at pointing, retrieving, and tracking. What sets them apart is not just their hunting prowess; it’s their delightful personality and dedication to their families, making them wonderful family pets for the right owners. Their friendly demeanor and eagerness to please make them a popular choice among those seeking an active and loyal companion. They are known for being intelligent and trainable, which makes them a popular choice for both hunting and dog sports activities. They make a wonderful companion for active families, and are very good with children, they are also very loyal to their owners.

A History Rooted in the Field

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon originated in the Netherlands in the late 19th century, primarily through the efforts of Eduard Karel Korthals. Korthals aimed to create a versatile gundog that could thrive in various terrains and weather conditions. He meticulously crossed several breeds, including the German Pointer, French Barbet, and possibly the Spinone Italiano and Poodle Pointer, to achieve the desired traits.

The Birth of a Breed

Korthals’ vision was to create a dog that was not only an excellent hunter but also a loyal and affectionate companion. The breed quickly gained popularity among hunters in Europe and, eventually, made its way to North America in the late 19th century.

From Field to Family

Historically, the Griffon’s role as a hunter was paramount. They were prized for their ability to work closely with their handlers, pointing game birds with unwavering focus and retrieving them gently, even from water. Today, while many Griffons still excel in the field, they are increasingly valued as beloved family pets, thanks to their adaptable nature and loving temperament.

Appearance: Rugged Charm

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon boasts a distinctive, functional, and slightly unkempt appearance that speaks to their working heritage.

Size and Build

• Height: Males typically stand 22-24 inches tall at the shoulder, while females range from 20-22 inches.
• Weight: Expect Griffons to weigh between 50 and 70 pounds, depending on their build and gender. They are medium-sized dogs with solid build.

Coat and Color

The Griffon’s most defining feature is their characteristic wiry coat, which provides excellent protection from the elements. The coat should be harsh and dense, with a soft undercoat for insulation. Acceptable colors include:

• Steel gray with brown markings
• Chestnut brown
• Roan (a mix of white and colored hairs)
• White and orange
• White and brown

Avoid solid colors or colors with too much black.

Head and Facial Features

The Griffon’s head is well-proportioned, with a moderately long muzzle and a distinct stop. Their eyebrows and mustache are prominent, adding to their expressive face.

• Ears: The ears are medium-sized, set high on the head, and carried close to the cheeks. They are covered in short, dense hair.
• Eyes: The eyes are large, round, and expressive, typically ranging in color from yellow to brown.
• Tail: The tail is typically docked to a medium length, although some countries are moving away from docking. It is carried horizontally or with a slight upward curve.

Character and Behavior: A Loyal Companion

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is renowned for its affable and intelligent nature. They are generally good-natured, eager to please, and form strong bonds with their families.

Temperament and Personality

• Attitude Towards People: Griffons are typically friendly and outgoing with people, including strangers, especially if socialized properly from a young age. They are known for being affectionate and enjoy being around their families.
• Attitude Towards Children: They are generally excellent with children, displaying patience and tolerance. However, as with any dog breed, supervision is always recommended, especially with very young children.
• Attitude Towards Animals: With proper socialization, Griffons can coexist peacefully with other dogs and even cats. Their hunting instincts may need careful management around smaller animals like birds or rodents.

Activity Level and Trainability

• Activity Level: Griffons are moderately active dogs that require regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. Daily walks, runs, or playtime in a fenced yard are essential. They also thrive on mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys or training sessions.
• Trainability: They are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement methods work best, as they respond well to praise and rewards. Consistency and patience are key, as they can sometimes be independent thinkers.

Breed Characteristics

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is known for being a sensitive breed. They do not respond well to harsh training methods or negative reinforcement. They are also prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for developing a well-adjusted and confident dog.

Care and Maintenance: Keeping Your Griffon Happy

Providing proper care and maintenance is essential for ensuring the health and well-being of your Wirehaired Pointing Griffon.

Grooming

• Coat Care: The Griffon’s wiry coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. A slicker brush and a metal comb are useful tools for maintaining their coat. Stripping the coat (removing dead hairs by hand) a couple of times a year is beneficial to maintain the texture and appearance.
• Bathing: Bathing should be done only when necessary, as frequent bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.
• Nail Trimming: Regular nail trimming is essential to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.
• Ear Cleaning: The ears should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections.

Exercise

Daily exercise is crucial for Griffons. This can include:

• Daily walks or runs
• Playtime in a fenced yard
• Swimming (they are natural swimmers)
• Dog sports such as agility, obedience, or hunting trials

They require a lot of exercises and mental stimulation to keep them happy.

Feeding

A high-quality dog food formulated for medium-sized, active breeds is recommended. The amount of food should be adjusted based on the dog’s age, activity level, and metabolism. Avoid overfeeding, as obesity can lead to various health problems.

Health Considerations

While generally a healthy breed, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are prone to certain health issues, including:

• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
• Hypothyroidism
• Ear infections

Regular veterinary checkups are vital for early detection and treatment of any health problems.

Breed Weaknesses: Things to Consider

While the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a wonderful breed, it’s essential to be aware of their potential weaknesses.

Potential Drawbacks

• Not Prone to Aggression: Griffons are generally not aggressive dogs. However, early socialization is crucial to prevent any potential fear-based aggression.
• Loyalty: They are extremely loyal to their families and can suffer from separation anxiety if left alone for long periods.
• Specific Weaknesses: Some Griffons can be vocal (prone to barking), and their hunting instincts mean they may chase small animals. A secure yard is a must. They may chase smaller animals because of their hunting instincts.

Is a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Right for You?

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is an excellent choice for active families or individuals who can provide them with plenty of exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. If you are looking for a loyal, intelligent, and affectionate family companion and are willing to invest the time and effort into their training and care, a Griffon might be the perfect breed for you. They thrive in homes where they are considered part of the family and are included in daily activities. They need an active owner and a secure yard, their hunting instincts need to be satisfied.