If you’re a dog lover, you’d agree there’s no greater joy than coming home to a wagging tail after a long day. But there’s an array of breeds available, each with its own unique traits and requirements. Today, we shimmy under the spotlight, a breed that’s less-known but equally deserving of our attention – the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon.
Interesting in look and nature, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a versatile, medium-sized breed with a remarkable agility that aids them to fare well in different dog sports, and entertains your kids in the backyard. From the bristly whiskered appearance to the natural talent for agility, this is a breed that’s exactly what it promises to be – a ready companion for an adventurous outdoorsy family.
But does this enchanting breed come with a high maintenance tag? Let’s find out!
Taking Care of a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon’s Coat
Often referred to as the ‘4×4 of the dog world,’ the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is unique for its rugged appearance, a lot of it credited to its scruffy, semi-long coat. What makes it even more appealing is that it’s a low shedding breed. Cue, the big sigh of relief for all those sneezing during the shedding season!
However, this also means that their coat needs proper grooming for it to remain healthy. Their wiry coat can get matted if not brushed thoroughly at least once a week. Using slicker brushes can help you take care of any tangles or loose hairs.
Although they are low shedders, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is not hypoallergenic, which people often mistake due to their low-shedding nature.
Furthermore, these adventurous dogs love rolling around in the mud and getting dirty outdoors. This calls for regular bathing. Homemade grooming wipes can be a good idea to keep your furry friend clean between his baths. As for haircuts, this breed’s unique ‘rough’ look requires professional grooming to strip their coats a couple of times a year only.
Exercise Needs
These vivacious buddies are originally hunting dogs, which means they are high-energy breeds. Their energy levels need to be constructively channeled lest they start exhibiting destructive behavior.
They are not a breed that enjoys lazing around the house all day. Instead, they will enjoy accompany you on your jogging or cycling trips. A couple of hours of physical activity every day is essential in keeping their spirit elevated. Apart from physical exercises, this breed too requires mental stimulation. Interactive puzzle games, agility training, or just an old-fashioned hide and seek will keep your dog mentally and physically healthy.
Health Concerns
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is overall a healthy breed with an average lifespan of 12-14 years. However, like any breed, they too are prone to certain genetic health issues. They may suffer hip dysplasia, a common condition among many dog breeds.
They can also develop eye conditions such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), which gradually leads to blindness. Regular vet check-ups can help manage these conditions before they get serious.
Despite these concerns, this breed is averagely less likely to fall ill as frequently as some other breeds, adding to their appeal.
Training Needs
Although wonderfully loyal and friendly, these dogs need training and socialization from an early age to avoid any behavioral issues later. They are intelligent and known for their quick learning ability, making it relatively easier to train them. However, unlike other breeds, these dogs have a sensitive nature. Harsh training methods can affect their spirit and confidence. Therefore, positive reinforcement is a recommended training method for these pooches.
The Verdict – Are Wirehaired Pointing Griffons High Maintenance?
Yes and no. The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon’s maintenance demands are subjective to every owner’s lifestyle. If you’re an active individual who can provide ample exercise and mental stimulation, this dog will fit right in. However, if you’re considering this breed for its low-shedding characteristic, bear in mind that it maintains its coat by requiring regular grooming.
While Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are more robust and suffer from fewer health concerns than some other breeds, routine vet check-ups are still necessary to avoid potential health issues in the future. Their intelligence is a boon for training, and early socialization can ease your job as well.
The adventurous, devoted, quick-witted, and loving nature of a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon makes the breed worth considering for any mid-size dog lover. If their needs align with your lifestyle, why not welcome this furry buddy into your home and reap its rewards? After all, as Kin Hubbard once said, “There’s no psychiatrist in the world like a puppy licking your face.”
