Background:
Wirehaired Pointed Griffons are still called Korthal’s Griffons in most parts of the world after the breed’s creator: Edward Korthal. Korthal was looking for a dog that could hunt in the water or on land, had a powerful sense of smell, could point to game, and retrieve it. With the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon he got exactly what he wanted. Although Griffon bloodlines are something of a mystery, Korthal’s breed was very well documented. He begun breeding in the late 1800s and crossed Griffons with several types of setters.
Korthal traveled around France to popularize his breed and the French took to it quickly. A few years later Wirehaired Pointers were entered into dog shows in both France and England. They were also very popular hunting dogs until World War II; after which time they were outshined by faster-paced breeds and largely ignored by hunters.
Regardless, Griffons have risen steadily in the ranks of the American Kennel Club since their acceptance in 1887.
Sizing up:
- Weight: 45 to 70 lbs.
- Height: 20 to 24 inches
- Coat: Dense, wiry, double coat
- Color: Brown and gray, chestnut and gray, white, white and brown, white and orange, brown, chestnut
- Life expectancy: 12 to 14 years
What’s the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon like?
Griffons are excellent hunting dogs but they do work at a slow and methodical pace. They need very little training in order to hunt and retrieve game; it’s in their blood. They could hunt day and night but will be just as happy as a show dog or competing in sporting competitions. It’s important that you find some way to thoroughly exercise Griffons, but how you go about it is completely up to you.
Griffons may be antisocial by nature so it’s important that they see lots of new faces while they’re young. It’s not likely they’ll be aggressive with strangers but it’s not impossible either lacking proper socialization. They will be loyal to their family and will want to stay as close as possible at all times.
Griffons are intelligent and take to training well. Hand signals or voice commands should be easy. Always use positive reinforcement in a training situation.
Griffons are puppies for a long time so you should expect some level of immaturity. They’ll make excellent companions for children although the interaction should always be supervised.
Health:
Wirehaired Pointed Griffons are generally healthy with few genetic illnesses reported. Hip dysplasia has been known to occur.
Takeaway Points:
- Wirehaired Pointed Griffons have a lot of energy and need a way to burn it off.
- Wirehaired Pointed Griffons are sometimes leery of strangers.
- Wirehaired Pointed Griffons are great with kids and can even match their energy levels.
- Wirehaired Pointed Griffons are sometimes called “supreme hunting dogs.”
If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian - they are your best resource to ensure the health and well-being of your pets