Wirehaired Pointing Griffons were bred for swamp-tromping: their weatherproof coats insulate them from water and cold temperatures, and protects them from critters and thorns. But these all-terrain dogs (Griffs, to their fans) can and will follow you just about anywhere. Today, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are still largely valued for the jobs they were originally bred for: retrieving and — of course — pointing. Some also do therapy visits or search and rescue work.
Originally from France, this medium-sized and high-energy breed can grow to between 50-60 pounds and lives an average of 12-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Sporting group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Hunting |
| Origin | France |
| Breed group | Sporting |
| Average lifespan | 12-14 years |
| Size | Large |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 112 |
| Family | Gundog, spaniel |
| Date of origin | 1800s |
| Original function | Pointing, retrieving |
| Today's function | Pointing, retrieving |
| Average size of male | Height: 20-22 Weight: 50-60 |
| Average size of female | Height: 20-22 Weight: 50-60 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | High energy |
| Exercise needs | High |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Friendly |
| Ease of training | Moderately easy to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Moderately protective |
| Grooming needs | Moderately maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Low tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons' funny, full beards add to their friendly facial expression. And the beards don't lie: these are amiable, outgoing, and eager dogs. This devoted breed gets along well with children and makes a wonderful family companion. Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are usually happy to meet strangers of the two- or four-legged variety.
WHAT IS WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON BEHAVIOR LIKE?
This is a very active breed who loves to work and keep on working. Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are seemingly inexhaustible, and happy to go into just about any environment. This is a powerfully built, athletic dog, so plan for lots of daily exercise. (Think somewhere between 30 to 120 minutes every day, depending on your Griff's energy level, joints, and overall health.)
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON?
The quick-minded Wirehaired Pointing Griffon responds well to training. This sensitive smarty-paws responds to positive reinforcement like encouragement and praise. She likes to be near her people, so off-leash play in a safe traffic-free area might be possible.
You might think about channeling your Griff's smarts, strength and stamina into dog sports like obedience, rally, flyball, or agility.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFONS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a seasonal shedder who requires occasional grooming. Griffs don't shed much, but their wiry coats will need regular hand stripping and brushing.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFONS HAVE?
As a breed, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are generally healthy. Some are susceptible to elbow or hip dysplasia and eye disease. Those charming droopy ears should be kept clean to prevent infections.
