Needs high physical and mental stimulation—thrives with field work, games, and variety.
Eager to please, very trainable, and loves working alongside people.
Affectionate with kids and pets. Sensitive but social—loves a group.
Coat needs regular brushing and occasional stripping to prevent matting.
Can be talkative and expressive when excited or bored.
Not ideal for allergy-sensitive households.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was developed in the late 19th century by Dutch breeder Eduard Korthals, who sought to create the ideal gun dog: versatile, hard-working, and close-ranging. By crossing various setter, pointer, and spaniel breeds—most notably the German Griffon and French and German hunting lines—Korthals established the foundation of the modern Griff. The breed was embraced in France, where it gained recognition for its rugged build, intelligence, and adaptability in rough terrain and wet environments.
Often called the “supreme gundog,” the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is valued for its excellent nose, water-retrieving ability, and biddable nature. Its wiry, low-shedding coat protects it in dense brush and damp fields, making it a true all-weather hunter. Despite their rustic exterior, Griffs are affectionate, goofy, and people-oriented companions who thrive when kept physically and mentally engaged.
Medium-sized and athletic, they typically weigh between 50–70 pounds and stand 20–24 inches tall. With proper training and exercise, they are joyful and responsive house dogs. Like many working breeds, they need purposeful activity and can become restless or vocal without it. Health concerns are relatively few but include hip dysplasia and progressive retinal atrophy.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are a fantastic match for active households seeking a clever, devoted, and adventure-ready partner.
Similar Dog Breeds: German Wirehaired Pointer, Pudelpointer, Spinone Italiano, Vizsla, Labrador Retriever
Living with a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is like having a witty, scruffy best friend who’s always up for whatever you’re doing—as long as it involves movement, fresh air, and being part of the team. They’re comically expressive, emotionally intuitive, and deeply driven to work alongside their people. Whether it’s bird hunting, agility drills, or just helping you find your socks, they want in. They’re not clingy, but they are deeply connected. You’ll rarely be alone, and you’ll rarely want to be.
They’ve got energy to spare and a brain that never shuts off, which means structure and outlets are non-negotiable. Without enough stimulation, a Griff will invent their own projects—digging, rearranging your backyard, “supervising” the cat. But when you give them a real role and a routine, they shine. Their work ethic is incredible, and their loyalty runs deep. They’re not just pets—they’re partners.
What sets them apart is the blend of grit and goofiness. Outdoorsy and athletic, yes—but also soft-hearted, affectionate, and wonderfully weird. They’ll give you muddy paws and snuggles in equal measure. Living with a Griffon means laughter, loyalty, and the deep satisfaction of knowing you’ve got a teammate who’s in it with you, every step (and sprint) of the way.
• Outdoorsy and eager
• Highly trainable
• Scruffy and charming
• Needs variety and space
• Friendly with kids and pets
I’m scruffy, sporty, and endlessly eager. I’ll hike, splash, and cuddle with equal enthusiasm. Looking for someone with a sense of humor, a solid trail mix stash, and a love for the great outdoors. I’m all about movement, connection, and shared adventures—with the occasional nap thrown in. Let’s explore the world together, one muddy pawprint at a time.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons shine in active households with a strong sense of adventure. Think: families who camp, hike, or just live life outdoors. A fenced yard is great, but what they really need is you—engaged, moving, and making space for their energy.
They’re not couch potatoes or kennel dogs. They want action, laughter, and a human who treats them like a sidekick, not a pet.
• Needs lots of outdoor time
• Not hypoallergenic
• Loves training and challenges
• Requires regular coat care
• Needs a job—or will invent one
• Stripping comb or grooming rake
• Long lead for fieldwork
• Treat pouch and clicker
• Backpack or harness for hikes
• Ball launcher
A generally robust breed, but keep an eye out for:
• Hip dysplasia
• Elbow dysplasia
• Progressive retinal atrophy
• Hypothyroidism
• Ear infections (due to their drop ears and active lifestyle)
Routine vet checks and post-adventure cleanups help maintain their health.
Distinguished and practical:
• Harsh, wiry coat with a dense undercoat
• Common colors: steel gray with brown markings, chestnut, or roan
• Requires regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping
• Low-shedding but not hypoallergenic
• Signature beard and mustache add character and catch food
Feed the drive, not the fluff:
• High-quality food for active or working breeds
• Adjust portions based on activity level—these dogs burn serious energy
• Joint support (glucosamine, omega-3s) can benefit long-term health
• Monitor weight—especially during off-season or reduced activity
• Fresh water always, especially after training or fieldwork
For an active dog with grit and heart:
• Needs daily mental and physical stimulation—don’t let them stagnate
• Clean ears regularly to avoid moisture buildup
• Provide a warm, soft resting place to support joints
• Use gentle, reward-based training—this breed wants to work with you
• A job, even just structured games or scent work, keeps them balanced
When their needs are met, the Griff is a joyful, eager, and endlessly loyal field companion.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are active, affectionate sporting dogs with goofy charm and serious smarts. They thrive in homes that embrace adventure, structure, and a little dirt. For outdoorsy families who want a true teammate—not just a pet—they’re exceptional. Give them a job, your trust, and space to romp, and they’ll reward you with loyalty, laughter, and muddy footprints in all the right places.
