As the sun sets one evening, you hear a low growl emanating from the corner of your living room. You turn to see your trusty canine companion, a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, standing stiff and alert, his tufted brow furrowed in concentration. Now, isn’t that an image that incites intrigue? But wait, aren’t Griffons hunting dogs, not guard dogs?
Let’s dive right into the fascinating world of this unique breed, dissecting if they are born protectors or merely excellent quail finders.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, a breed touted as the “supreme gundog,” is an agile and dexterous hunter, originally bred in the Netherlands in the 19th century for hunting purposes. Acclaimed for their working ability, this breed is recognized for its bristly and wiry coat and its extraordinary ability to point and retrieve game – all gifts of their well-bred, multi-national lineage that includes German Griffons, French Pointers, and Spaniels.
But, is this prized hunting pooch the kind that can seamlessly transition into a fearless guard dog, fiercely protecting his humans from unwelcome guests or alarming situations? To answer that, let’s delve into the fascinating characteristics of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon.
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon may be a formidable opponent in the field, but they are generally known for their friendly and amiable nature. They are intelligent dogs and quick learners, true, but their temperament is typically gentle, affectionate, and highly sociable. They love being part of the family activities and typically get along well with children and other pets. So, while they carry a keen sense of alertness, Griffons are not naturally aggressive, a typical trait seen in traditional guard dogs like German Shepherds or Dobermans.
However, their exceptional intelligence and keen senses make them good watchdogs. They are quick to sense unusual activities or unfamiliar presences and would readily alert their family members with their distinct bark. Remember, they were bred to notice the slightest rustle in the bushes or the slightest movement in the grass. Hence, they carry this sharp awareness into their home environment as well.
Worth noting are their territorial instincts, which can be honed for guarding purposes with proper training. Griffons are known for their steadfast loyalty and attachment to their homes and families. With the right training regimen that plays to this innate sense of territory, a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon can indeed be taught to protect their home from intruders to a certain extent.
However, it’s essential to remember that every dog is an individual, and temperaments can vary, even within a breed. Training for aggression could lead to potentially dangerous situations if not handled correctly. So, while training your Griffon to be a guard dog might sound like a good idea, it is beneficial to consult with a dog behaviorist or a professional trainer.
Furthermore, the general demeanor of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is more suited to providing companionship and love, and they excel in that. They thrive in the company of their human family and can become quite anxious if left alone. So, turning your friendly and sociable Griffon into a stoic guard might not be the best way to highlight its personality.
In conclusion, while the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has the potential to function as a watchdog, they are not best suited to be guard dogs. Their inherent qualities of being affectionate, friendly, and sociable, coupled with their intelligence and alertness, make them fantastic family pets and loyal companions.
So, the next time you see your Griffon standing alert, give him a loving pat and remember: While he may not be the traditional guard dog, he is an excellent judge of character and situations, always ready to protect his family in his own way. Their love and fidelity indeed make them a protective presence in your home – not in the conventional protective way, but in their own signature, endearing Griffon style. And isn’t that what we cherish about our furry friends?
