German Roughhaired Pointer

Known in Germany as the Deutsch Stichelhaar, it is a versatile wire-haired pointing gundog developed to find, point and retrieve game over varied terrain. It is a hardy, athletic dog with a harsh, weather-resistant coat, bushy eyebrows and a beard that protect it as it works through cover and water.

It is a large gundog standing roughly 60 to 70 cm at the shoulder and weighing around 27 to 34 kg. It has a sturdy, athletic build bred for stamina and all-round ability in the field, working tirelessly across varied terrain in all weather conditions.

The typical lifespan is around 12 to 14 years. It is generally a hardy working breed, but because it is rare and few are kept outside working circles, breed-specific health data are limited. Choosing a breeder who health-tests their stock and asking about the parents' health is important.

Within the home it is loyal, even-tempered and affectionate, and it generally gets on well with children and other dogs when properly socialised. It is alert and can be watchful, but it is bred as a cooperative hunting partner rather than a guardian. Its defining trait is a strong working drive.

A lot. This high-energy working breed needs substantial daily exercise — long walks, free running in safe areas and, ideally, activities that engage its mind and hunting instincts. Simple lead walks are rarely enough; it benefits from scent work, retrieving games or actual gundog activity. Sensible exercise during growth protects developing joints.

The harsh, wiry coat is relatively low-maintenance but benefits from regular brushing to remove dead hair, with occasional hand-stripping to keep the correct weatherproof texture. The beard and facial furnishings can trap dirt and moisture and may need wiping. Routine ear cleaning, nail trimming and dental care complete the regime.

The main considerations are those common to active, deep-chested sporting dogs. Responsible breeders screen for hip and elbow problems and avoid breeding from affected dogs. Maintaining a healthy weight, sensible exercise during growth, good dental and ear care, and awareness of the signs of bloat are all sensible precautions.

It can be an affectionate family dog, but it is not for sedentary households or owners wanting an easy-going companion. It is best suited to an active rural or semi-rural home with an experienced, sporting owner who can provide ample exercise, training and ideally genuine working activity.

Good with children. As a general guide, German Roughhaired Pointers tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.

As a healthy adult, a typical German Roughhaired Pointer needs 90 minutes to 2 hours of exercise a day (90–120 minutes), split across walks plus play. Higher-energy dogs also need mental stimulation — sniffing, training games and puzzle feeders — to stay settled. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need less — ask your vet.

Moderate shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.

Manageable for committed beginners. German Roughhaired Pointers are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.

Quiet. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.

Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.

Needs plenty of space. A German Roughhaired Pointer really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.