Stealthy, playful, and exceedingly loyal, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons – often playfully dubbed as the “bearded dogs” for their notable and impressive whiskers – remain as the unsung heroes in the world of canine companions. Hidden underneath their shaggy, unkempt appearance and less-known status in the celebrity dog world is a friend for life that boasts an exciting combination of characteristics perfect for a wide range of potential dog owners. You might not have heard much about them, probably due to their low-profile nature, but it’s high time the world celebrates the dynamic nuances of this fascinating breed.
At the heart of a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a friendly and sociable soul. They excel at communicating and forming close bonds with their human families, flourishing best when they are engaged in consistent interaction and activity. Evolving as versatile gundogs, they boast an impressive and sharp intelligence, observant nature, and persistence, all wrapped up with an unmatchable excitement for work and companionship.
What sets these breeds apart is their inherited hunting skills. Pair this with their strong desire to please their humans, and you’ve got an incredible pet on your hands. However, these traits also signal that open spaces and active lifestyles complement them best. If your lifestyle involves lounging on the couch and flipping through novel page after page, a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon might feel out of place – unless you’re willing to turn a page of your life and start a little active adventure of your own.
Kids and Griffons often make the best partners-in-crime. Displaying a sort of playful energy that seems never to run dry, they make great family dogs. They have a knack for sensing the emotional needs of their humans. When there’s a playful grin on your kid’s face, expect a Griffon to reply in kind with wagging tails and playful growls. When there’s a tear rolling down a cheek, a Griffon would lend a comforting paw, and perhaps even a nudge or a lick. Their temperament breeds love, with an understanding and patience that bolsters their impressive reputation as family pets.
But, before you start googling the closest Griffon breeder near you, it’s important to understand that owning a Griffon, like any pet, comes with responsibilities. Griffons shed little, but their distinctive double coat demands regular brushing to prevent it from becoming matted and tangled. Their beard, a signature Griffon trait, is prone to dirt accumulation (yes, leftovers from meals too), and will need frequent cleaning to keep it neat and your cuddles mess-free.
Training a Griffon extends beyond teaching them tricks or basic commands. You need to invest in providing mental and physical consolidation to boost their innate hunting perspective. Engage them in activities that stimulate their senses while challenging their physical limits. From puzzle games to agility training, from long walks to occasional swimming, Griffon’s need for activity should never be underestimated.
If you are a newbie to dogs, a Griffon might seem a lot to handle at first. But trust that even their demanding, quirky traits have beautiful payoffs. Nothing compares to Griffon’s joy-filled leaps of accomplishment after they figure out a challenging puzzle or complete a favorite trail run. Their sparking eyes and the constant wag of the scruffy tail is genuine and infectious.
Still, first-time dog owners need not shy away from considering a Griffon. Behind their high-energy and activity needs, you’ll find an inherently good-natured breed that wants nothing more than your love and companionship. All they ask for in return is your understanding, patience, active involvement, and perhaps a spot on your couch or in your bed for their ‘off-duty’ hours!
Is a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon a friendly dog? This question doesn’t do justice to the Griffon’s multi-faceted personality. Beyond their sociable nature lies a breed of gentle, intelligent, and versatile companions that are capable of turning a dull day around with their ever-ready, wagging enthusiasm. Just like with any friendship, the bond between a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon and its human takes time, understanding, and mutual respect to unfurl to its full potential. With that, and perhaps a sturdy leash for those hunting instincts, you are ready to welcome an extremely rewarding new friendship into your life.
