Introduction to the German Wirehair Pointer

The German Wirehaired Pointer is known for its versatility as a hunting dog. It is an excellent choice for upland game birds and is highly adaptable, able to be either a close-range or far-ranging dog based on the needs of the hunter. Not only is it an incredible upland bird dog, but it also excels as a water dog due to its double coat, which helps it withstand harsher temperatures than other pointing breeds.

History

The German Wirehair Pointer has an interesting heritage, being a mix of Pudelpointer, German Shorthaired, and Wirehair Pointing Griffons. Originally introduced to the United States in 1953, the breed gained AKC recognition in 1959. Although it’s considered a rare breed, its popularity is growing steadily.

The Difference Between German Wirehair and Drahthaar

It’s important to note that Drahthaar and German Wirehaired Pointer are genetically identical. However, their breeding and training philosophies differ significantly. Drahthaar dogs must pass rigorous individual tests in breeding and performance to be certified for breeding, whereas the German Wirehair Pointer is bred according to parent club standards and breeder ethics in the U.S.

Breed Standards

The breed has specific standards that dictate its ideal size and physical characteristics.

• Females should be 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh between 50 and 60 pounds. They typically have a 1.5 to 2-inch-long coat, with a solid liver-colored head and sometimes a blaze on the chest. Their coat color combinations include liver and white, white and liver, or solid liver.
• Males are slightly larger, standing 24 to 26 inches tall and weighing 60 to 70 pounds on average, with the same coat color variations.

In both males and females, a broad head, a strong front, and a moderate amount of angulation are desired. Proper body structure is essential for efficient movement, whether in the field or show ring.

Coat and Physical Features

The German Wirehair’s double coat makes it particularly adept at withstanding cold temperatures. The outer guard hairs provide protection, while the inner down coating offers insulation, making this breed ideal for snowy or wet conditions. Additionally, German Wirehairs are webbed-footed, which enhances their swimming ability, especially in cold water.

Versatility in Hunting

The German Wirehair Pointer is a multi-purpose hunting dog that is capable of hunting a wide range of game. In Germany, they are used for hunting both fur and feather animals, including squirrels, rabbits, foxes, and anything that flies. The breed’s versatility allows it to work in a variety of roles, from hunting ducks to tracking deer, and even serving as search-and-rescue dogs or bomb-sniffing dogs.

While many people use them strictly for bird hunting, others may train them for different specialized tasks.

Field Trials and Hunting Performance

In a typical hunting scenario, the dog flushes out the bird from the brush, allowing the hunter to shoot it. The dog then retrieves the bird and brings it back without damaging it—a key trait in this breed. In field trials, German Wirehair Pointers are trained to point and hold that position until the bird is flushed, allowing the hunter to take the shot. Afterward, the dog retrieves the bird and returns it to the hunter, ensuring it is in good condition for consumption.

A key characteristic in these field trials is a soft mouth. A German Wirehair Pointer must retrieve the bird gently, ensuring it’s not damaged or crushed in the process.

German Wirehair Pointers as Pets

Though they are exceptional hunting dogs, German Wirehair Pointers also make fantastic family pets. They’re highly versatile and enjoy a wide range of activities, from backpacking trips to playing at the dog beach. Their temperament makes them great companions for families that enjoy outdoor activities.

A well-bred German Wirehair Pointer is friendly and sociable, thanks to the breeder’s efforts to ensure good temperament and behavior from an early age. It’s essential that these dogs are well-exercised, as a bored dog can become destructive. Having a backyard is ideal for these active dogs, but if you live in an apartment, daily walks and exercise are a must.

Health Considerations and Care

As with any breed, the German Wirehair Pointer is prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia. Breeders typically test and x-ray dogs for hip dysplasia at two years of age to ensure they’re healthy and fit for breeding. While this breed can experience health problems like seizures or diabetes, these issues are relatively rare. In general, German Wirehair Pointers are a healthy breed that requires proper nutrition and care to thrive.

Notable Dogs and Future Expectations

Several German Wirehair Pointers featured in the video showcase the breed’s excellence in both show and field trials:

1. Champion Idawire’s Vacation: An 18-month-old male, already a champion but yet to be trained for fieldwork.
2. Cynister’s Murdock: A promising 5-month-old puppy, with champion bloodlines, expected to excel in both show and field trials.
3. Idawire Cynister’s Along Came Polly: An 11-month-old female who placed third in her second field trial, showcasing great drive and style in the field.

These dogs exemplify the breed’s potential and versatility, both in hunting and competitive settings.

The Legacy of Cynister Wires

For Cathie Magoon, the breeding of German Wirehair Pointers is more than just a hobby—it’s a family tradition. The breed has brought her family together, with her children and grandchildren helping to raise and train the dogs. Though her husband is no longer with them, his legacy continues through their work with the dogs. For Cathie, this is not just about breeding dogs—it’s about keeping a family legacy alive.

Final Thoughts

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a breed that excels in both the field and as a family companion. Whether you’re an avid hunter looking for a versatile dog or a family seeking a loyal and active pet, the German Wirehair Pointer offers a perfect combination of traits. Just be sure that you can meet its exercise needs and provide a suitable environment for this energetic and intelligent breed.

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