Early in the 20th century, an increased popularity in hunting brought with it a demand for new and better breeds of hunting dogs. This demand led to the breeding of dogs with preferred qualities, in search of the perfect hunting companion.

Native to Germany, the Deutsch-Drahthaar (German Wirehair) traces its lineage back to crossbreeding of the German Pointer with the Foxhound, Wirehaired Griffon, and Poodle. The German Wirehaired Pointer's exact lineage is unclear and other breeds may have been crossed during its inception as well.

The German Wirehaired Pointer was first brought to the U.S. during the 1920s. In 1959, the AKC (American Kennel Club) admitted the breed as part of its Sporting Group.

This Pointer is medium-sized, muscular and sturdy. They range from 24 to 26 inches in height and weigh between 60 and 70 pounds.

This breed's distinctive feature is its wiry, weather-resistant double coat. The undercoat is dense and insulating in winter months, then thins out to near invisibility in the summer. The outer coat is about two-inches long, straight, wiry, flat, and water-repellent. The colors are liver and white, spotted, roan or ticked. Solid liver is also seen at times.

The German Wirehaired Pointer is affectionate, loyal, energetic, and intelligent. While they quickly bond with family members, they can be aloof, though not aggressive, with strangers. Early exposure to both strangers and friends helps this breed become more social.

These Pointers form a strong bond with its master and can have tendencies toward jealousy. Separation anxiety can also be an issue for this breed. They thrive on companionship and do not like being left alone for long periods. Their unhappiness is often expressed through destructive chewing or constant barking.

German Wirehaired Pointers have an abundance of energy and require regular exercise. Left on their own too often, they can become bored and difficult to manage.

Strongly independent, easily distracted, willful, and dominant, the German Wirehair can be difficult and time-consuming to train. Patience and consistency are required to properly train this breed.

The German Wirehaired Pointer's dominant streak can extend to other animals. They can become aggressive with other pets in the home as their way of exerting their dominance and should be taught from an early age that all household members (humans and animals alike) are created equal.

Their hunting dog heritage has left these Pointers with a strong instinct to chase smaller animals, such as cats and squirrels. They have a good nose for scent and love to track and retrieve.

Consequently, the German Wirehaired Pointer should be closely monitored around neighborhood animals and should not be allowed to roam free.