Grooming
A German Wirehaired Pointer’s grooming needs are fairly low compared to other breeds. They rate low on the shedding scale, too. Here are grooming tips for your German Wirehaired Pointer:
Brushing: Their standout feature is their unique wiry outer coat which is not only fashionable, but also functional. It acts as a water-repellent cover for these field- and forest-loving dogs. While it’s a low-maintenance coat, all that foraging does mean your dog will come home with various bits and bobs stuck to their fur. A brush once a week with a slicker brush followed by a pet comb will keep the forest, fields and whatever else out of your dog’s hair—and out of your house.
Ear cleaning: Their ears should also be checked regularly for debris and any redness or swelling. If you notice anything, speak to your vet. If your vet recommends at-home cleaning, follow this step-by-step guide on how to clean dog ears.
Nail trimming: If you can hear your German Wirehaired Pointer tap-dancing their way to you before you can see them, it’s time for a nail trim (typically once every two to four weeks).
Dental care: Let’s not forget the teeth! Brush your German Wirehaired Pointer’s teeth daily; start when they’re a puppy with twice-a-week toothbrushings to get them used to the feeling. Once a year, have your vet professionally clean your dog’s teeth to ensure their grin is as goofy and endearing as ever.
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Training
One of the standout qualities of a German Wirehaired Pointer is their intelligence, making them a pleasure to train. Start training them early to ensure they grow up to be well-socialized and well-versed in manners with both people and other dogs.
As a duck hunting breed, these types have already got that inkling to retrieve, but regular training classes will help them excel at being responsive and coming when you call. Training them to keep their prey drive in check is also necessary. You don’t want them tracking and chasing every squirrel you meet in a five-mile radius. While you can help curb these innate tendencies, it’s important to understand that you’ll never completely train them out of your dog. With proper training and lots of exercise, though, you can help your dog be a respectful member of society.
To bring out the best in your German Wirehaired Pointer puppy, use lots of positive reinforcement during your training times. Toys, treats and praise are great ways to reward your pup. These dogs love to be challenged and rewarded by their pet parents.
And don’t forget socialization. Start socializing your pointer while they’re a puppy to help get them used to meeting new people and other dogs. Take your German Wirehaired Pointer puppy on leashed walks and let them safely meet new people and other dogs. Enroll in puppy preschool, where they’ll learn to play nicely with other puppies and meet new people all under one roof.
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Diet
Your German Wirehaired Pointer will do well on high-quality, commercially prepared packaged dog foods. Make sure to choose a formula designed for your pup’s stage in life (puppy, adult, senior). These dogs are known for their high energy and may need a higher calorie or protein intake than other breeds. If you’re not sure how often or how much to feed your pup, chat with your vet. They can help you determine a mealtime schedule based on your dog’s unique needs and lifestyle.
And don’t forget the dog treats! Everyone loves a little extra something every once in a while, but remember those count toward caloric intake and mealtime goals. Your vet can help you find the right balance between snacks and meals to keep your dog at a healthy weight.
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Exercise
If there is one thing German Wirehaired Pointers need more than you, it’s, hands down, exercise. They need at least an hour, if not more, of vigorous exercise every day. When these pups aren’t properly exercised, unwanted behaviors start to emerge—all that energy has to go somewhere, after all. So, why not destroy your shoes or yell incessantly at that leaf that just blew by? They’re working dogs, and they need a job to do. Exercise that stimulates them in both body and mind will scratch their itch for work. It isn’t a some-days thing—it’s an everyday thing.
The German Wirehaired Pointer dog would love it if everything was an exercise in hunting. So, take your pup out in a fenced yard and play fetch or create scent trails around the yard that lead to fun toys or delicious treats to track down. And—fun fact alert!—German Wirehaired Pointers have webbed feet, even more awesome, making them good swimmers—another outlet to exhaust their energy.
Take them out on long walks—always on a leash, of course. Dogs with high prey drives get very focused when they find something they think needs chasing. And they’re quick. So, your pup will be off before you realize it, and they won’t hear you call, nor will they look both ways before crossing a street. So, for their safety and your sanity, keep them on a leash when you’re not in enclosed spaces.
If you’re into some friendly competition, you and your pup should check out dog sports, like agility, rally (similar to obedience), tracking or flyball. Not only will you be coming home with some fancy winning ribbons, but it’s a great way for you two to spend time together—your pointer’s favorite pastime.
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Environment
While you don’t need to own an entire forest to have a German Wirehaired Pointer (though bonus points if you do), these dogs thrive in the outdoors and need a fenced backyard to run around in.
They are very affectionate and are ideally suited for active and experienced pet parents who would love to have a companion for any and all outdoor activities. Their high-energy needs paired with their training makes them a great choice for someone who’s had a dog before.
While they can be wary of and a little aloof with strangers, these dogs are very family-oriented and bond strongly with their people, including kids. They’ll get along well with other dogs in the home, too. If raised with cats, German Wirehaired Pointers can be fond of and bond with felines as well.
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