The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon makes a very good family pet and excellent hunting dog. They require lots of exercise and time outdoors so a properly fenced in yard would be ideal. They can get along with other pets, dogs and considerate children, especially if socialized at an early age. As a reminder, never leave a child unsupervised with a puppy or dog.

*Approximate Adult Size. The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is 20 to 24 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 50 to 60 pounds.

*Special Health Considerations. Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is no exception. Although considered a very healthy breed, be on the look out for thyroid problems, skin allergies and Canine Hip Dysplasia (genetic based looseness in the hip joint that can lead to arthritis pain and lameness). This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

*Grooming. The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has a double coat. The inner coat is soft and fine. The outer coat is stiff and harsh with beard, eyebrows and mustache. This breed needs occasional professional grooming. She should be brushed regularly. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat, help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with her.

Her ears should be checked once a week and be kept clean. If you have her professionally groomed, make sure ear cleaning and inspection is part of the package. No water or excess fluid should get in the dogs ears, and do not try to irrigate the ears. Ear cleaning is too complicated and critical to instruct here. Look for hair growing in the ear canal, excess wax, or moisture. If her ears have a discharge, foul odor or she seems to be in distress and you suspect an infection, or tumor, consult your veterinarian.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet.

*Life Span. The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

*History. The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon comes from France where they were used to hunt and retrieve. They were first registered by the American Kennel Association in 1887.

Some Registries:

*American Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Association

*UKC United Kennel Club

*NKC National Kennel Club

*CKC Continental Kennel Club

*APRI Americas Pet Registry Inc.

*AKC American Kennel Club

*FCI Federation Cynologique Internationale

*NZKC New Zealand Kennel Club

*KCGB = Kennel Club of Great Britain

*ANKC = Australian National Kennel Club

*ACR = American Canine Registry

Litter Size: Average 8 Wirehaired Pointing Griffon puppies

Category: Sporting Group, Gundog

Terms To Describe: Intelligent, affectionate, quick, outgoing, trustworthy, graceful,

*SPECIAL GOOD POINTS

Easy to train.

Makes a good watch dog.

*SPECIAL BAD POINTS

Makes a poor guard dog.

*Other Names Known By: Korthals Griffon, Griffon DArret a Poil Dur, Pointing Wirehaired Griffon, supreme gundog

*Every dog is an individual so not everything in this information may be correct for your dog. This information is meant as a good faith guideline only.