Description: The German Wirehaired Pointer is a medium size, muscular dog often used for hunting. This dog weighs between 60 and 70 pounds and is 22 to 26 at the shoulder, depending on the sex of the dog. The German Wirehaired Pointer has a double coat, with a hard, wiry guard coat over a dense undercoat. The undercoat will be thicker or thinner according to the season. The color of the coat is liver and white, solid liver, or roan spotted. The head of this dog is always liver. The tail is ordinarily docked. The German Wirehaired Pointer can be expected to live from 12 to 14 years. It is also called the German Wire-Haired Pointing Dog.

History: When working to create a hunting dog that could perform over any kind of landscape for nearly any type of game, German breeders combined the Poodle, Pointer, Griffon, and Foxhound to create the German Wirehaired Pointer. By about 1900 the breed was recognizable. Besides the qualities mentioned above, the dog would have to be able to retrieve from the water as well as the land. Hunters wanted a dog that would have stamina and energy and this goal was achieved.

Temperament: The German Wirehaired Pointer develops a great deal of loyalty to its human family. This dog is very affectionate and interacts well with everyone in the house. It is a very active dog, however, and to be perfectly happy must have a great deal of exercise every day. The German Wire haired Pointer should be socialized with other dogs and household pets when young, to avoid any problems with the adult dog. As this dog is protective of its family, it will serve as a guard dog.

Health Issues: Although the German Wirehaired Pointer is generally a robust and sound dog, it can suffer from hip dysplasia. Some lines carry hereditary cataracts. Von Willebrand's Disease can also be found in this breed, and care should be taken with surgery as this is a form of hemophilia and bleeding problems can occur. This dog can also develop skin cancers.

Grooming: The German Wire haired Pointer should be brushed about two times a week. The undercoat of this dog will need to be stripped out at least once a year. The owner can do this themselves, or take the dog to a professional groomer for stripping. The German Wire haired Pointer should not be bathed unless absolutely necessary, to maintain the strength of the coat. As it is often used as a hunting dog, be sure to check for ticks and other pests that might have attached themselves to the dog. The ears are often prone to infections, and should be checked regularly and kept clean and dry.

Living Conditions: As the German Wirehaired Pointer is a high energy dog, it is definitely not recommended for apartment life. This dog is active inside as well as out and needs an outlet for its energy. The owner should give this dog long walks or runs daily to keep it mentally and physically fit. As this dog enjoys human companionship, it would be an excellent dog for hunters or families that enjoy outdoor sports.