The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a versatile hunting dog that has gained popularity as a family companion in recent years. With its robust build, wiry coat, and keen sense of smell, this breed is known for its ability to work in a variety of terrains and conditions. In this article, we will delve into the history and traits of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, shedding light on why it has become a beloved breed among hunters and families alike.
Breed History
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a relatively new breed, having been developed in the early 20th century. It is believed to be descended from a variety of French pointing breeds, including the Griffon Fauve de Bretagne, the Griffon Nivernais, and the Griffon Vendéen. These breeds were known for their hunting abilities, and breeders sought to create a dog that could excel in both land and water hunting.
In 1887, a Dutch breeder named Eduard Korthals began developing the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. He crossed various breeds, including the aforementioned French breeds, with German Griffons and Setters. The result was a versatile hunting dog with a unique appearance and exceptional skills.
The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1887 and has since gained popularity in Europe and North America. Today, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is still primarily used as a hunting dog, but its friendly and affectionate nature has also made it a popular choice as a family pet.
Origin of the Name
The name “Griffon” comes from the French word “griffer,” which means to scratch or dig. This refers to the breed’s ability to dig out game while hunting. The “Pointing” part of the name comes from the breed’s natural instinct to point at game, indicating its location to the hunter. The “Wirehaired” aspect of the name refers to the breed’s unique coat.
Breed Appearance
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a medium-sized dog with a robust build. It stands 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs 45 to 65 pounds. The breed has a wiry, double coat that is water-resistant, making it well-suited for hunting in wet conditions. The coat can be a variety of colors, including brown, black, and white, with or without ticking (small spots of color).
One of the most distinctive features of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is its long, pointed muzzle. This allows the breed to retrieve game without damaging it. The breed also has floppy ears, which are set high on the head and hang close to the cheeks. Their eyes are typically brown or hazel and have an intelligent and alert expression.
Coat Care
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon’s coat requires regular maintenance to keep it looking its best. It should be brushed at least once a week to remove any dead hair and prevent matting. The breed also needs to be hand-stripped twice a year to remove old, dead hair and promote new growth. This process involves plucking out the old hair by hand, rather than using clippers.
Breed Traits
Intelligent, friendly, and versatile, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon possesses a range of traits that make it a popular choice among hunters and families alike. Let’s take a closer look at some of these traits.
Intelligent
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. They are quick learners and are easy to train, making them suitable for both novice and experienced dog owners. This breed excels in obedience and agility training, as well as hunting training.
Friendly
Despite their hunting background, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are known for their friendly and affectionate nature. They make excellent family dogs and get along well with children and other pets. However, they may have a strong prey drive, so it’s essential to socialize them from a young age and supervise interactions with smaller animals.
Versatile Hunter
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is an all-around hunting dog that can work in various terrains and conditions. Its keen sense of smell and natural instincts make it suitable for hunting both small and large game. This breed is also an excellent swimmer and is often used for waterfowl hunting.
Health Concerns
Like all breeds, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is prone to certain health issues. It’s crucial to be aware of these potential concerns and take preventive measures to keep your dog healthy. Some common health problems seen in this breed include:
- Hip Dysplasia: This is a condition where the hip joint doesn’t develop correctly, leading to pain and mobility issues.
- Ear Infections: Due to their floppy ears, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are prone to ear infections. Regular cleaning and inspection can help prevent this issue.
- Eye Problems: Cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, and entropion (inward rolling of the eyelids) are some eye problems that can affect this breed.
It’s essential to choose a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings on their dogs to reduce the risk of these health issues.
Training and Exercise Needs
As mentioned earlier, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are intelligent and easy to train. However, they do require consistent and positive training methods to reach their full potential. Early socialization is also crucial to ensure they grow up to be well-behaved and friendly dogs.
This breed has high energy levels and requires regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks, runs, or play sessions are necessary to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They also excel in activities like agility, tracking, and retrieving, which can be incorporated into their exercise routine.
Owning a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Before bringing home a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, it’s essential to consider if this breed is the right fit for your lifestyle. Here are some factors to keep in mind:
- Space: This breed does best in a house with a yard where they can run and play.
- Grooming: As mentioned earlier, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon’s coat requires regular maintenance, so be prepared to spend time brushing and hand-stripping.
- Training: This breed needs consistent training and socialization from a young age to reach its full potential.
- Health Concerns: Be aware of potential health issues and take preventive measures to keep your dog healthy.
- Time and Attention: Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are affectionate and thrive on human companionship. They do not do well when left alone for long periods and require plenty of attention and love from their owners.
Conclusion
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a unique and versatile breed that has gained popularity for its hunting abilities and friendly nature. Developed in the early 20th century, this breed has quickly become a beloved companion for hunters and families alike. With proper care, training, and socialization, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon can make an excellent addition to any household. So, if you’re looking for a robust and intelligent dog with a big heart, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon may be the perfect breed for you.