The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, an intriguing breed lovingly known as the “4-wheel drive of hunting dogs,” is coveted by those who desire a versatile, obedient, and reliable companion. This lesser-known breed has an uncanny ability to switch from an energetic game of fetch on the land to a swift swim in the lake, leaving you astounded by both its agility and companionship. Even those with well-versed knowledge in different dog breeds may find themselves asking, “What is so different about the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?”
Here’s the scoop: these dogs have double coats! A coarse, wiry outercoat combined with a soft, downy undercoat gives the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon its characteristic “unkempt” appearance – a trait that surprises many folks. And here’s where it gets interesting: while this dog is not considered a hyper-allergenic breed, its distinctive double coat comes attached with an interesting advantage. The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a low-shedding breed!
Although technically, no dog is completely “shed-free,” Wirehaired Pointing Griffon earns its place as a low-shedder, making it an appealing choice for folks who might love dogs but not the mess of fur that often accompanies them. If you, like many, dread the thought of fur finding its way into every nook, cranny, and article of clothing in your house, then the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon could definitely have a spot in your favorite breeds list!
But let’s dive deeper tackling an important question that might be niggling at the back of your mind: How much do these dogs really shed?
If you imagine a spectrum, with one end being non-shedding dogs like Poodles and Shih Tzus, and the other end carrying breeds like German Shepherds and Huskies (the champions of shedding), the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon would find itself somewhere closer to the minimal shedding side. However, that does not mean you will never see a stray hair. Even the least shedding dogs are prone to occasional hair loss, especially during transition periods between seasons when they may naturally “blow” or shed their undercoats.
So then, what should you do to manage and maintain that unique double coat?
Well, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is relatively low maintenance, but that doesn’t mean you’re completely off the hook! Regular brushing is always beneficial, not just for removing loose hair and avoiding potential matting, but also for promoting blood circulation for a healthier coat. Once or twice a week with a firm bristle brush should do the job. And here’s another bonus: their wiry fur naturally repels dirt, so you don’t need to invest in frequent bathing sessions. Regardless, it won’t hurt to give your Griffon a thorough check after outdoor activities to ensure no debris or ticks have made their home in its coat.
Do you have allergies but can’t resist the charm of owning a dog? You will be happy to hear that these low-shedders are categorized as hypoallergenic! Because they shed less, it means less dander, a common allergen, is floating around the house. However, always remember that hypoallergenic doesn’t mean allergy-free, as individual reactions may vary.
In summary, if you’re looking for an active, loyal dog that won’t leave your home looking like a fur convention, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon could be the pet for you. While its shedding is minimal and more controllable compared to many other breeds, remember that upkeep still involves routine brushing and occasional grooming, which can be a great bonding time for you and your fur buddy. And, at the end of the day, you’ll find that a few stray hairs here and there are a small price to pay for the love and companionship of this remarkable breed.
