Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
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Historical Information:
Eduard Korthals, from Amsterdam, is the man most credited for the development of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. Korthals had a great love of hunting which induced him to develop a canine hunting companion that could work in a variety of terrains including the swamps and marshes prevalent in his country.
To this end, he embarked upon a very selective breeding program with the aim of developing a very swift dog of high intelligence, keen nose, weather resistance, and having the ability to work over land and water with great endurance. Spaniels, pointers and retrievers were included in the breeding stock to contribute the traits needed for such a versatile hunting dog. The dog that ultimately resulted lived up to his expectations and was called the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, although for a while it was known as Korthals Griffon in recognition of his work.
The Griffon breed did not arrive in America until 1887. Subsequently, it was cross bred with the Cesky Fousek. The WPG of today is a medium-sized dog with strong limbs, a bristly coat and webbed feet. His amber eyes are almond-shaped and his muzzle is distinguished by an appealing, yet unkempt-looking, beard and mustache.
This breed is both confidence and decisive and is considered an excellent all-around field dog, working both on water and land. He has also been successfully involved in search and rescue work.
Appearance:
Height: 22-24 inches Weight: 50-60 lbs.
Color variations: Mainly Steel gray with brown markings, chestnut brown, or roan, white and brown. Also acceptable, white and orange.
Coat and Care:
The water repellent coat is straight and harsh with a short fine undercoat providing good protection for cold or hot weather. He has soft covering over the eyes and a distinctive shaggy beard around the mouth. Coat maintenance is easily managed with a weekly brush and comb, and trimming of the ear canal hair. Occasionally he does need to have his coat stripped to allow new hair to come in. Shedding is very minimal.Personality and Traits:
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is an intelligent and very trainable dog. He is an excellent hunting companion/worker, being highly skilled in swimming and retrieving and possessing remarkable scenting ability.
The WPG makes a loyal and affectionate family companion that aims to please. While not aggressive, he has a healthy reserve aound strangers until he is assured that they do not pose a threat. This trait makes him a natural watchdog.
Activity Level:
Games of fetch and swimming are very enjoyable activities for the WPG. He needs a considerable amount of exercise and vigorous walks every day. If you have access to a place where he can swim, this will be a most enjoyable outlet for his energy. He will appear to be hyperactive and become bored if not sufficiently exercised.Toys:
Click on any toy for more details.
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Space Needs:
Best in a rural home with a considerable yard and secure fencing as well as open areas where he can run freely. He does not do well if isolated for very long and will get into mischief if relegated to be left alone outside.
Children:
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has a friendly disposition, and gets along well with children and other pets, but as with any breed of dog, play should always be supervised by an adult.
Elderly:
While a sedentary family may enjoy this charming and smart dog, they would likely find the exercise needs too demanding for their lifestyle.
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