Buyer question
Is a German Wirehaired Pointer good for beginners?
Usually not: our Animal Library rates the German Wirehaired Pointer 2 out of 5 for beginners (needs an active owner).
Source: the German Wirehaired Pointer page in the Everybarn Animal Library. German Wirehaired Pointer in the Animal Library
The detail
A German versatile gun dog bred to point, track and retrieve in rough cover and cold water, with a harsh wire coat for protection. Loyal to its family and often aloof with strangers, it is a tireless worker that needs hard daily exercise.
- Temperament
- Driven, loyal, reserved
- Best fit
- Hunters, hikers, runners
- Trainability
- 4 out of 5 (Capable, independent)
- Energy
- 5 out of 5 (2 hrs hard exercise daily)
- Grooming load
- 2 out of 5 (Weekly brush, strip twice)
What to weigh
A GWP needs serious daily running and a secure fence, and a strong prey drive puts cats and small pets at risk. It can be protective and wary of strangers without early socialization.