The FCI and AKC standards give no weight. Hill's gives typical weights of about 70 lb (about 32 kg) for males and about 60 lb (about 27 kg) for females; these are typical figures, not limits.
A harsh, wiry, flat-lying outer coat about 2 to 4 cm long over a water-repellent undercoat, shorter on the head and ears. Bushy brows and a beard give the face its rugged, whiskery look, and the coat shields the dog in thick cover and bad weather.145
Coloursbrown roanblack roanlight roansolid brown/liverliver and white14
Personality what they are like
A steady, self-assured dog that is calm around gunfire and game. At home it is loyal, affectionate and often funny, while it can be a little aloof with people it does not know, which also makes it a watchful companion.143
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Very high. The RKC advises more than two hours of exercise a day, and the breed loves swimming, retrieving and working in the field. It suits active, outdoorsy owners best.53
Grooming and care the hands-on bits
Brush the wiry coat about twice a week, with occasional hand-stripping to tidy dead hair and baths only as needed.35
Home where they are happiest
Best suited to country living with plenty of secure space; a well-fenced garden or land is important because it loves to range.53
Food basics what goes in the bowl
A complete, balanced commercial or vet-guided diet suited to the dog's size, age and activity level, with portions adjusted to keep a lean, athletic shape and fresh water always available.
Company who they like around
Bonds closely with its family and does well with children and other pets when well socialised from a young age.3
The story where it all began
German hunters in the late 19th century wanted one tough dog for field, forest and water. Breeders led by Sigismund von Zedlitz und Neukirch combined rough-coated pointers such as the Pudelpointer and Griffon Korthals with the German Shorthaired Pointer, and the result was accepted by the FCI in 1954.12
Fun facts for the dinner table
1
In Germany it is simply called the Drahthaar, meaning "wire hair".3
2
It is built to work before and after the shot on land and in water, which is why its coat is so weatherproof.1
3
In Germany it has averaged a little over 3,000 registrations a year between 2010 and 2024.2
4
The AKC standard calls the wiry coat the breed's most distinctive feature.4
Where the name comes from the story behind it
The breed name 'German Wirehaired Pointer' refers to its German origin, its wire-like harsh coat, and its pointing instinct. In German, it is called 'Deutsch Drahthaar', which literally means 'German Wirehair'.6
A day in the life told by a German Wirehaired Pointer
I woke up and stretched my wiry legs. My human and I went to the field, I pointed at a pheasant, steady as a statue. Then we played fetch in the pond; I swam and shook water everywhere! At home, I curled on the rug, my funny beard dripping. I love my family and the muddy puddles. Tomorrow, more adventures!
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
Recognised by the official bits
FCI
Standard no. 98, Group 7 (Pointing Dogs), Section 1.1 Continental Pointing Dogs, with working trial. Definitively accepted by the FCI in 1954.1
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my German Wirehaired Pointer, and at what times?
Feed your adult German Wirehaired Pointer twice a day at consistent times, such as morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Always follow the food label and your vet's advice for portion sizes.7
What should a German Wirehaired Pointer eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A complete, balanced commercial diet suited to your dog's size, age and activity level is ideal. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for specific dietary needs.8
How often should I bathe a German Wirehaired Pointer?
Bathe your German Wirehaired Pointer only when needed, roughly every two months or so. Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 56 days, and the ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Over-bathing can strip the coat's natural oils.39Pet Wiki plan
How often does a German Wirehaired Pointer need brushing?
Brush your German Wirehaired Pointer's wiry coat about twice a week to remove loose hair and prevent mats. Furry Diary's plan suggests weekly brushing, and occasional hand-stripping keeps the coat healthy.35Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a German Wirehaired Pointer's nails, and how often?
Trim your dog's nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.9Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a German Wirehaired Pointer need?
Your German Wirehaired Pointer needs more than two hours of exercise daily, including walks, play, and opportunities to swim or retrieve. This breed thrives with active, outdoorsy owners. Furry Diary's plan includes daily walks and play.53Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a German Wirehaired Pointer's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth daily if possible, at least two to three times a week, using a dog-safe toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, especially since floppy ears trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.9Pet Wiki plan
How long does a German Wirehaired Pointer live?
A German Wirehaired Pointer typically lives between 12 and 14 years with good care.32
Is a German Wirehaired Pointer good with children and other pets?
Yes, when well socialised from a young age, this breed is good with children and other pets. It bonds closely with its family and is loyal and affectionate at home.3
Can a German Wirehaired Pointer be left alone?
German Wirehaired Pointers can be left alone for short periods if well trained, but they thrive on companionship and may become anxious if left too long. It's best to ask your breeder or vet for advice tailored to your dog.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
German Shorthaired Pointer
Pudelpointer
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Large Münsterländer
Wirehaired Vizsla