🦮 Large · Germany

German Wirehaired Pointer: Size, Weight & Temperament

A robust, weatherproof pointer bred for versatile hunting, with very high exercise and work demands and a strong hunting drive that requires hunting guidance and intensive activity.

! Experienced only
German Wirehaired Pointer dog breed portrait
Photo: Томасина · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Weight male27–35 kg
Weight female23–30 kg
Shoulder height57–68 cm
Size classLarge (25–45 kg)
Fully grownat approx. 18 months
Life expectancy12–14 years
Activity levelVery high
OriginGermany
ClassificationFCI Group 7 (Pointing Dogs)
Temperament & character

The German Wirehaired Pointer is eager to work, courageous, and strongly fixated on its handler. It shows a strong affinity for water and sharpness toward vermin, requiring targeted handling.

Exercise & stimulation

This breed needs several hours of hunting or sporting activity daily, such as tracking, water work, or retrieving. Without adequate outlets, it becomes destructive and hard to manage.

Grooming

The harsh wire coat is weatherproof and relatively low-maintenance but should be occasionally hand-stripped and checked for injuries and ticks after hunting. The drop ears require regular inspection.

Suitable for beginners?

The German Wirehaired Pointer is not suited to beginners, since it requires hunting guidance and very high levels of activity. It suits hunters or highly experienced, sporting-active owners best.

Health & common problems

Reported conditions include hip and elbow dysplasia, making joint screening of breeding animals advisable. Due to its moderately deep chest, there is also some risk of gastric torsion.

Good with: Hunters, very active experienced owners

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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.