Overview
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a tough, versatile gundog built for rough cover and cold water. Its harsh, wiry coat with beard and eyebrows gives it a slightly stern look, and the character behind it is strong: loyal, independent, protective of its people and not at all interested in strangers until it has decided they are acceptable.
Walkers who know the Shorthaired should not assume this is the same dog in a different jacket. The Wirehaired tends to be more reserved, more territorial and more inclined to make its own decisions. It also tends to bond hard with the person who does interesting things with it.
Exercise and walking needs
Budget at least two hours a day with a long, free-running stretch. Fitness is high and stamina is deep, so a short walk only takes the edge off. Hills, rough ground and water are all welcome.
Build structure into it. Heelwork for the first stretch, free running in the middle, a retrieve and a calm walk home. A GWP that gets to be a hooligan for the whole hour becomes harder each week.
On the walk
- Recall: Normally trained in and reliable, but the dog will weigh your call against whatever it has found. Be more interesting than the pheasant.
- Strangers: Wary and watchful. Do not let people approach from behind or reach over the dog, and give it a moment to assess new faces.
- Other dogs: Confident and can be domineering with dogs of the same sex. Introduce carefully and avoid crowded entrances.
- Weather: The coat shrugs off rain, brambles and frost. Heat is the limiting factor; cut long runs on warm days.
Tips for professional walkers
- Spend a visit at home with the owner present before your first solo walk.
- Use the owner's recall whistle and cues, not your own version.
- Comb the beard and legs after wet, muddy walks; they drag through everything.
- Keep sessions purposeful so the dog sees you as the one running the show.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog react to strangers approaching it or you, and what should you do?
- Which dogs does it get on with, and has it had any trouble with same-sex dogs?
- Is the dog worked, and what recall and stop cues are already in place?