German Wirehaired Pointing Wolfhound: Breed Info, Pictures & Facts

The German Wirehaired Wolfhound is a dog that you can’t help but notice. Their distinctive coat and large size command your attention. It also helps that this dog is adorable and outwardly friendly, especially with family. Both parent breeds bring a hunting history to the mix. While the German Wirehaired Pointer went after birds, the Irish Wolfhound tangled with big game, hence, the name.

The Pointer is an enthusiastic gundog that loves the chase. They’re smart and intense about their job. The Wolfhound is literally a gentle giant. Despite their size, they wouldn’t make the best guard dog. They’re that friendly. The two together make an excellent pet for the right home that has plenty of room for a larger canine.

German Wirehaired Wolfhound Puppies

On looks alone, the German Wirehaired Wolfhound will win your heart. Their coarse, scruffy-looking coat makes them even more endearing. However, it’s wise to research a dog—or any pet—before you commit to getting one. The obvious thing to consider with this pooch is this size. This is not an apartment dweller. The energy level of the Pointer is too high for them to fare well while staying inside all the time.

The background of the parent breeds means that the German Wirehaired Wolfhound is an intelligent dog with an independent streak. They also need mental stimulation to be happy. That was, after all, the world in which they were raised. We would be remiss if we failed to mention another consideration: their lifespan. The Wolfhound typically only lives up to 8 years old. Keep this in mind if you have children.

3 Little-Known Facts About the German Wirehaired Wolfhound

1. The Irish Wolfhound Is an Ancient Breed

The history of the Irish Wolfhound goes back centuries to the times of the ancient Greeks and Romans. Then, the same as now, the people viewed them with wonder in their eyes.

2. Royalty Took a Fancy to the Irish Wolfhound

It’s hard not to imagine falling in love with the Irish Wolfhound. That’s what many royal figures thought, too, including King John of England, Julius Caesar, and Anne Boleyn.

3. The Coat of the German Wirehaired Pointer Is Well-Suited to Their Job

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a natural in the field, thanks to their keen sight and intelligence. Their coat also gives them an advantage, as it is weather-resistant to keep them comfortable while searching for game in the countryside.

Temperament & Intelligence of the German Wirehaired Wolfhound 🧠

The German Wirehaired Wolfhound comes from good stock. Both parent breeds are lovable pets. If the Irish Wolfhound is dominant, your pooch is likely calmer than the energetic German Wirehaired Pointer. Their hunting background fuels their need to run and flush prey wherever they can find them. This mix is an intelligent dog and eager to please.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡

Both parent breeds are affectionate dogs, especially with their families. Interestingly, the Irish Wolfhound also welcomes strangers. The German Wirehaired Pointer, not so much. While this pup is friendly, they probably will overwhelm small children easily with their size. We suggest that you supervise time with the kids, just to be safe. It’s not that this pooch is mean, but they may not realize how big they are.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽

The German Wirehaired Wolfhound is not the best choice if you have any other pets in your home. First of all, there is theirmassive size. Then, there is the strong prey drive of both parent breeds, coupled with an equally high wanderlust potential. If your pup spots a fleeing cat, they’ll likely chase with possible negative consequences.

Things to Know When Owning a German Wirehaired Wolfhound:

Now that you know something about their personality, let’s delve into some of the specifics about inviting a German Wirehaired Wolfhound into your home. This information can help you decide if this pup is a good fit for your home and lifestyle. Working dogs like the parent breeds mean that breeders selectively bred them for some traits. That’s what you need to know upfront.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

We’ve touched on the diet of the German Wirehaired Wolfhound. This pooch eats a lot. Fortunately, this dog isn’t prone to gaining weight. However, you should feed them a high-quality food formulated for giant breeds. Believe us when we say that dog food is not all the same. Small breeds like the Toy Poodle mature quicker than a large pup like the Irish Wolfhound. It can take up to 16 months for the latter.

We recommend putting your pooch on a regular feeding schedule. It will help you monitor their intake and make adjustments as necessary. Luckily, the Pointer in your pup is active enough to keep them trim. We also suggest using treats as training aids. It’s a powerful motivator when you have a smart dog that thinks for themself.

Exercise 🐕

The German Wirehaired Wolfhound does best with active playtime. They’re always a willing companion for a game of catch with the Frisbee. Daily walks are also an excellent way to reinforce training and leash manners. These activities will provide the mental stimulation that this pup needs to thrive. It’s also a great way to bond with your pooch.

Training 🦮

It’s imperative to begin socialization early in the life of a pup like the German Wirehaired Wolfhound. We also recommend training. It’s essential when you have a giant breed. It’ll make things easier for you if they know who’s in charge from the start. After all, a dog as friendly and affectionate as this one is also a handful.

Grooming ✂️

Both parent breeds shed. It may seem like it’s more often than seasonally because of the size of the German Wirehaired Wolfhound. Weekly brushing will keep things in check. It’s also an excellent time to look at their ears. The Pointer in your pup has a higher propensity for ear infections. It’ll give you a chance to remove the burrs from their coat and find ticks if they’ve been exploring in your yard.

Health and Conditions ❤️

Both parent breeds have the same risk that many of their size share. Joint and skeletal problems top the list. Reputable breeders will do the recommended health screenings. With the German Wirehaired Wolfhound, we think it’s a dealbreaker if they haven’t been done.

Male vs. Female

Male and female German Wirehaired Wolfhounds are close in size. However, even a smaller one is a lot of dog to manage. In either case, we suggest consulting with your veterinarian about an appropriate time to spay or neuter your pet if you don’t plan on breeding your pooch. It’s the responsible thing for any pet owner to do.

Final Thoughts

There are few dogs as attention-worthy or as affectionate as the German Wirehaired Wolfhound. While some many fear this dog because of their size, this pooch is as gentle as they come, even if they are overly enthusiastic about sharing their love. A large dog, like any pup, is a commitment. Knowing what to expect from this one will help you make an informed choice about opening your home to one. Overall, though this breed sure to warm your heart.

• Also See: How Much Does a Pointer (German Wirehaired) Cost?

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Feature Image Credit: eAlisa, Shutterstock