Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Over time, the hunting instinct and working qualities of Wirehaired Pointing Griffon have only grown stronger. It is not for nothing that hunters from almost all over the world choose this breed. Korthals Griffons are very contactable, able to work both alone and in a pack. They are used for hunting small game on land and excellent hunting birds on the water.

Breed Photos

Origin History

In Europe, hunting in conjunction with the hounds has been popular since the middle of the 19th century. The Korthals Griffon got its name thanks to its creator. The breed owes its origin to the Dutch breeder and hunter Eduard Cortals. He decided to revive the once very famous hunting dog, the Griffon Sedin. He then began the long work of creating the perfect griffon. Relying on 1874 notes from Cortals’ book, he used four male dogs and four female lapdogs to create the new breed. He purchased them in Germany, Belgium, and France.

For Cortals, the result was important. He wanted to breed a purebred Griffon by selecting the best representatives of the breed. And in 1887, Eduard Cortals succeeded – the first standard of the breed was adopted. Traveling through Europe Cortals continued to test the working qualities of the Griffon, which played a huge role in the popularization of the breed.

As early as 1888, the first Griffon Club was founded by fans of the breed. And in 1954, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale. The breed is in demand not only in its homeland but also in the Netherlands. It is also known among hunters in Morocco, Germany, Spain, Canada, and Sweden.

Appearance

Externally, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon does not look anything special. It is a typical representative of the stiff-haired hunting hound. Its ruffled, shaggy coat gives the dog an outlandish appearance. A characteristic feature of the breed is considered a coarse coat, which forms curly whiskers and eyebrows.

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a medium-sized dog with a strong backbone; the body is stretched format. The long muzzle is square. The eyes are rounded, usually light brown. The Korthals Griffon gaze is focused and confident. The ears are medium to floppy, set at eye level. Strong back. Deep chest with quite convex ribs. Limbs with well-developed musculature. The tail of medium length, slightly raised. The coat is tough to the touch with a dense undercoat. The most common color is brown and white, gray with brown markings, and the brown-orange color.

Character

Over time, the hunting instinct and working qualities of Wirehaired Pointing Griffon have only grown stronger. It is not for nothing that hunters from almost all over the world choose this breed. Korthals Griffons are very contactable, able to work both alone and in a pack. They are used for hunting small game on land and excellent hunting birds on the water. Today, the breed is also popular as a rescue and search aid. With a family, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons become gentle and affectionate creatures. They are very homesick for their owners and do not tolerate loneliness.

Despite its robust character and seriousness, the French hard-haired hound is very playful. And this means that in relationships with children it has no problems. It is wary of strangers, as it is very alert to the detection of “strangers” in its territory. You can safely use the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon to guard your home.

If you are ready to provide the pet with the necessary physical activities and long walks, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon will get accustomed to the apartment. But for a more comfortable self-perception of a French stiff-haired hound, spacious home is still better.

Care

The French stiff-haired hound owners point out one significant advantage of the breed – the almost complete absence of molting. With proper care, even during the seasonal molting period, the coat is in normal condition. It is enough to comb it out once every few weeks.

Otherwise, care is minimal. Inspect and clean his ears and eyes twice a week to prevent the accumulation of moisture and dirt. Bathe when dirty. As with other hunting dogs, the coat of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is capable of self-cleaning. An active dog’s claws tend to sharpen on their own. If this is not enough, trim them monthly.

Training

In education and training, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are quick enough to absorb and memorize the necessary commands. The only problem is their innate stubbornness.

The French stiff-haired hound can exhibit a dominant attitude. To prevent this from happening, you should be a little more assertive and correct her behavior. Also, so that you can control the natural hunting instinct, the pet needs early socialization. Remember, without a trusting relationship and a proper training approach, your dog will become more independent and difficult to control.

Common Diseases

French hard-haired hounds have good health and immunity to many diseases. There is no tendency for hereditary diseases. The most characteristic disease for the breed is considered to be hip dysplasia.

Nutrition

The pet’s diet depends entirely on its activity. Feeding Wirehaired Pointing Griffon must be balanced and regular. Preference is given to lean meat, poultry, and by-products. If you want to feed your dry pet food, be sure to choose premium food for medium breeds.