Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Dec 11, 2024

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, often affectionately called the "Griff," is a versatile and hardworking gundog renowned for its all-terrain abilities in hunting and pointing game birds. Sporting a distinct wiry coat and soulful eyes, the Griff is equally adept at retrieving in water and navigating rugged landscapes, thanks in part to its signature webbed toes. Their boundless enthusiasm, intelligence, and quick wit make them not only outstanding field dogs but also loyal family companions. These adaptable dogs thrive in active households that can match their energy and love for the outdoors. Globally, they are known as the "Korthals Griffon" in France and the "Griffon d'arrêt à poil dur Korthals" in Quebec, reflecting their European roots.

THE BASICS:

Category: Gundog
Size: Medium
Exercise Needs: 1-2 hours per day
Grooming: Moderate (regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping)
Coat Length: Medium, wiry, and weather-resistant
Shedding: Low (may be suitable for humans with allergies)
Lifespan: 12–14 years

A BRIEF HISTORY: AN ALL-TERRAIN SPORTING DOG

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was developed in the late 19th century by Eduard Karel Korthals, a Dutchman who aimed to create the ultimate hunting dog. By selectively breeding various pointer and setter breeds, he achieved a versatile and adaptable gundog that could excel in both water and rough terrain.

Griffs became especially popular in Europe for their hunting prowess and eventually gained recognition in the United States as a dedicated sporting breed. They’re now loved for their rugged good looks and affectionate personalities.

WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON PERSONALITY: FRIENDLY, INTELLIGENT AND DEVOTED

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are known for their gentle and social nature. They form strong bonds with their families and are particularly good with children, making them excellent family dogs. They’re friendly and outgoing, usually getting along well with other dogs and pets.

These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, which makes training a joy. However, their strong hunting instincts mean they require early socialisation and consistent training to ensure they’re well-behaved in all situations.

HOW MUCH EXERCISE DOES A WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON NEED?

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are high-energy dogs that need at least 1-2 hours of daily exercise. They love long walks, runs, or hikes, and they thrive in activities that engage their hunting instincts, such as retrieving, tracking, or agility training.

They excel in water and are natural swimmers, making them ideal companions for outdoor enthusiasts. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, Griffs can become bored and may develop unwanted behaviours.

HOW TO GROOM A WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON: MAINTAINING THEIR DISTINCTIVE LOOK

The Griff’s wiry, weather-resistant coat requires regular care to keep it in good condition. Brush them weekly to remove loose hair and prevent mats, and hand-strip their coat a few times a year to maintain its texture and appearance.

Their wiry beard may trap dirt and food, so regular cleaning is necessary. Routine ear checks, nail trims, and dental care are also important to keep your Griff healthy and comfortable.

HEALTH: SUPPORTING YOUR WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are generally healthy dogs but can be prone to certain conditions:

Hip dysplasia: A common issue in medium-sized, active breeds.
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): A genetic eye condition affecting vision.
Ear infections: Due to their active lifestyle and floppy ears.

Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and plenty of exercise will help ensure your Griff enjoys a long and healthy life.

FUN FACTS ABOUT WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFONS

Dual Purpose: Griffs are skilled in both pointing and retrieving, making them a versatile choice for hunters.
Rough and Ready: Their wiry coat was specifically bred to withstand harsh terrains and weather conditions.
Rare but Loved: While not as common as some breeds, Griffs have a devoted fan base among hunters and dog enthusiasts.

LIVING WITH A WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON: ACTIVE AND AFFECTIONATE

Living with a Griff is an adventure! These pooches thrive in active households where they can join in on outdoor activities and get plenty of exercise. They’re happiest when included in family life and love to be around their people.

While adaptable to various living environments, they do best in homes with access to outdoor spaces where they can run and explore. Their gentle nature and trainability make them wonderful companions for families who are ready to meet their energy and grooming needs.

IS THE WIREHAIRED POINTING GRIFFON RIGHT FOR YOU?

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon might be your perfect match if:

You’re looking for an energetic, intelligent, and affectionate companion.
You enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, hunting, or running.
You’re ready to invest time in regular exercise, training, and grooming.

They might not be the best fit if:

You prefer a low-energy or low-maintenance breed.
You’re away from home for long periods, as they thrive on companionship.
You’re not prepared to manage their hunting instincts or grooming requirements.

Best Food For Griffons

Scrumbles Salmon Dry Food: A great option for adult Griffs, providing balanced nutrition with a larger kibble size for medium breeds as well as the omega 3 for a healthy coat.
Scrumbles Gnashers Dental Chews: Helps maintain healthy teeth and gums, especially important for a breed that loves to chew.

Scrumbles Meat Wet Dog Food: Packed with gut-friendly prebiotics, single-source protein and naturally grain free for sensitive stomachs. Also a great option for fussy pooches with 70% meat and a higher moisture content to release those meaty aromas.

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a delightful combination of energy, intelligence, and devotion. Whether they’re sprinting through fields, retrieving from water, or snuggling on the sofa after a long day, these dogs bring endless joy and adventure to their families. Ready to welcome a Griff into your home? They’ll reward you with love, loyalty, and countless unforgettable moments!