Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
A versatile wirehaired pointing and retrieving gundog (Korthals Griffon). Affectionate, biddable and keen, but a working dog that needs serious daily exercise.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon scorecard
Overview
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, also known as the Korthals Griffon, is a versatile, medium-to-large gundog standing roughly 50–60 cm at the shoulder and weighing around 23–27 kg. It is built for work, with a harsh, weatherproof wire coat, a characteristic moustache and bushy eyebrows, and a steady, willing manner that has earned it a devoted following among hunters and active families alike.
Recognised by the Kennel Club in the Gundog Group, the breed was developed as an all-round pointing and retrieving dog able to work on land and in water. It is affectionate, biddable and keen to please, which makes it a rewarding companion, but it is first and foremost a working dog with substantial exercise and stimulation needs. It suits an active home that can give it a real outlet for its energy and intelligence.
Good to know — a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon needs plenty of space and manageable for committed beginners. Every dog is an individual, so meet a few and chat to a good breeder or rescue before deciding.
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History & origins
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is credited largely to Eduard Karel Korthals, a Dutch breeder working in the late nineteenth century, who set out to create the ideal versatile hunting dog. Much of his breeding work took place on the European continent, and the breed draws on a mixture of griffon and pointing types. As a result, the breed is associated with both the Netherlands and France, and is often referred to by Korthals' name in recognition of his role.
The goal was a hardy, intelligent gundog that could point, retrieve and work in difficult terrain and water, with a coat tough enough to withstand rough cover and cold conditions. The FCI recognises the breed under French patronage, and the Kennel Club lists it within the Gundog Group. It remains primarily a working breed, valued for its all-round ability rather than as a purely ornamental dog.
Temperament & family fit
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is affectionate, gentle and strongly bonded to its family, with a biddable, cooperative nature that reflects generations of close partnership with hunters. It tends to be friendly and good-natured, typically getting on well with children and often with other dogs, which makes it a popular choice for active family homes that can meet its needs.
Keen and willing, the breed enjoys being involved in family life and working alongside its owner. It is generally less reserved than some working breeds, though sensible socialisation is still important. As a dog bred to range and hunt, it can show interest in birds and small game, and it thrives when given a purpose. Without enough activity and engagement, its eager energy can turn into restlessness.
- Families with children of all ages
- Owners ready for consistent training
- Active homes with plenty of space
Training & intelligence
This is an intelligent, trainable breed that genuinely enjoys working with its handler, which makes training both productive and enjoyable. It responds well to consistent, reward-based methods and benefits from early socialisation and basic obedience as a foundation. Its cooperative nature means it generally takes well to gundog work, retrieving games and other structured activities that use its natural abilities.
Because the Griffon is sensitive and people-oriented, harsh handling is counterproductive; calm, fair guidance gets the best from it. Mental challenges are as important as physical exercise, and owners who provide tasks, training and varied activities will find the breed a willing and capable partner. Recall and steadiness around game are worth building carefully given its hunting instincts.
- Start socialisation & handling early
- Reward-based methods only — no harsh corrections
- Channel energy into training games & enrichment
Exercise needs
A healthy adult Wirehaired Pointing Griffon typically needs 90 minutes to 2 hours a day (roughly 90–120 minutes), split across walks, play and a little training. Higher-energy dogs also need their brains tired — sniffy walks, training games and puzzle feeding go a long way. Puppies, seniors and dogs with health conditions need adjusted amounts — check with your vet.
Grooming & coat
The harsh, weatherproof wire coat is relatively low-shedding and practical, but it does need regular care. Routine brushing helps keep it free of debris and tangles, and the coat typically benefits from occasional hand-stripping to maintain its correct texture, particularly in dogs that are shown. The facial furnishings, moustache and beard should be kept clean, and the ears checked regularly, especially in a dog that enjoys water, to reduce the risk of infection.
- Brush several times a week
- Bathe every few weeks or as needed
- Check ears, nails and teeth weekly
Feeding considerations
Feed a complete, good-quality diet appropriate to the dog's size, age and activity level, divided into two meals a day and adjusted to maintain a lean, athletic condition. As an active gundog, the Griffon's energy requirements rise with hard work and exercise, so portions should reflect the individual dog's workload. Because it is a deeper-chested breed, it is wise to avoid vigorous exercise immediately around mealtimes, and to keep an eye on body condition rather than relying solely on feeding-guide quantities.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon health & costs
Before bringing a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon home it pays to budget for the whole picture — food, insurance, grooming and routine vet care all add up. The figures below are typical UK estimates for a healthy adult; your real costs vary with where you live, your dog's health and the cover you choose.
Food
£600–850 / year
Complete food sized to weight & life stage
Insurance
£35–62 / month
Lifetime cover — varies by age, breed & area
Grooming
£120–300 / year
Occasional pro + home brushing
Routine vet care
£200–450 / year
Vaccines, flea/worm, annual check
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is generally a healthy, robust breed with a typical lifespan of around 12–15 years, in keeping with its working background. As with most medium-to-large gundogs, hip dysplasia is a relevant concern, and responsible breeders screen breeding stock under the appropriate schemes, such as the BVA/Kennel Club hip scoring programme, to reduce the risk of passing it on. Hereditary eye conditions and ear problems associated with drop ears and water work are also worth being aware of.
Prospective owners should ask breeders about health testing carried out on the parents and choose breeders who prioritise health and working soundness. Keeping the dog at a healthy weight, providing appropriate exercise, and maintaining routine veterinary care, parasite control and ear hygiene all support long-term wellbeing. Because the breed remains relatively uncommon, knowledgeable breed clubs are a valuable source of guidance.
Common health conditions to be aware of
- Hip dysplasia — a heritable hip joint malformation; breeding stock should be hip-scored under the BVA/Kennel Club scheme.
- Hereditary eye conditions — periodic eye testing is advisable, as gundog breeds can be affected by inherited eye problems.
- Ear infections — the drop ears and the breed's love of water can trap moisture, so ears need regular checking and cleaning.
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) — a life-threatening emergency that can affect deeper-chested breeds.
- Hypothyroidism — an under-active thyroid reported across many breeds, manageable once diagnosed.
- General joint and soft-tissue strains — an active working dog should be kept lean and fit to protect its joints.
These reflect typical, size- and coat-related risks for dogs like the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon; individual breeds carry their own predispositions. Always buy from health-tested parents and speak to your vet — this isn't a diagnosis.
Protect against surprise bills
A single emergency can run into thousands. Lifetime insurance spreads the risk.
Estimate insurance →How pet insurance works →Puppy & senior care
Bringing home a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon puppy
Puppies need controlled exercise (a rough guide is five minutes per month of age, twice a day) to protect growing joints, little-and-often meals of a complete puppy food, early socialisation, and a calm routine for toilet training and sleep. Book first vaccinations, microchipping and a vet check early.
New puppy checklist →Caring for a senior Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
As they age, watch weight, joints and teeth, switch to a senior diet if your vet advises, keep exercise gentle but regular, and consider orthopaedic bedding and ramps. Twice-yearly vet checks help catch issues early — larger breeds age sooner, so start senior care from around 6–7 years.
Orthopaedic beds & mobility →Pros & cons
The good bits
- Affectionate, trainable all-round gundog
- Low-shedding weatherproof coat
Things to consider
- High exercise and stimulation needs
- Coat needs occasional hand-stripping
Compare the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
See how the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon measures up against similar breeds before you decide:
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Frequently asked questions
What is a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?
Also known as the Korthals Griffon, it is a versatile medium-to-large gundog standing roughly 50–60 cm at the shoulder and weighing around 23–27 kg. Developed in the Netherlands and France as an all-round pointing and retrieving dog able to work on land and in water, it has a harsh weatherproof wire coat, a distinctive moustache and bushy eyebrows. The Kennel Club places it in the Gundog Group.
What is the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's temperament like?
Affectionate, gentle and strongly bonded to its family, the Griffon has a biddable, cooperative nature reflecting generations of close partnership with hunters. It typically gets on well with children and often with other dogs, which makes it popular with active families. Keen and willing, it loves being involved in family life and thrives when given a purpose.
How much exercise does a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon need?
A lot. This is a working gundog with high exercise needs that requires substantial daily activity. Long walks, free running in secure areas, swimming and the chance to use its nose all suit it well, and it especially enjoys having a job to do. It is not a dog for a sedentary household; without serious daily exercise and mental stimulation it can become frustrated.
Is the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon hypoallergenic?
No dog is truly hypoallergenic, but the harsh, weatherproof wire coat is relatively low-shedding, which some allergy-prone owners find more manageable. The coat still needs regular brushing and benefits from occasional hand-stripping to maintain its correct texture. Anyone with allergies should spend time with the breed before committing rather than relying on coat type alone.
How is the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon different from the German Wirehaired Pointer?
Both are wire-coated continental pointing breeds, but they are distinct. The Griffon (Korthals Griffon) was developed in the Netherlands and France and is known for a steady, gentle, biddable manner. They differ in origin, breed standard and some physical details, so prospective owners should look at each breed's specific traits and the individual dog rather than assuming they are interchangeable.
Are Wirehaired Pointing Griffons easy to train?
Yes. They are intelligent, people-oriented and genuinely enjoy working with their handler, responding well to consistent, reward-based methods. Early socialisation and basic obedience lay a good foundation, and the breed takes naturally to gundog work and retrieving games. Because it is sensitive, calm and fair guidance works best; recall and steadiness around game are worth building carefully.
What health problems affect the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?
It is generally healthy and robust, with a typical lifespan of around 12–15 years. As with most medium-to-large gundogs, hip dysplasia is a relevant concern, and responsible breeders screen under schemes such as the BVA/Kennel Club hip programme. Hereditary eye conditions and ear problems linked to drop ears and water work are also worth being aware of. Ask breeders about parents' health testing.
Is the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon a good family dog?
It fits well into active, outdoorsy family life, being affectionate and good with children, but it is a working breed at heart rather than a low-energy companion. It is best suited to a home with secure space and owners who can commit to plenty of daily exercise and engagement. Given enough activity, training and company, it is a loyal, even-tempered and capable all-rounder.
Are Wirehaired Pointing Griffons good with children?
Good with children. As a general guide, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons tend to be patient and tolerant. Whatever the breed, always supervise dogs and young children and teach kids to interact gently.
How much exercise does a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon need?
As a healthy adult, a typical Wirehaired Pointing Griffon 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.
Do Wirehaired Pointing Griffons shed a lot?
Low shedding. Coat upkeep is regular brushing — brush regularly to keep the coat in good condition.
Are Wirehaired Pointing Griffons easy to train and good for first-time owners?
Manageable for committed beginners. Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are best for owners ready to commit to consistent training and plenty of activity. Reward-based training and early socialisation help any dog.
Do Wirehaired Pointing Griffons bark a lot?
Moderate barker. They are usually fairly easy-going about barking, though any dog will bark if bored or under-exercised.
Are Wirehaired Pointing Griffons good with other dogs?
Sociable with other dogs. Early, positive socialisation with other dogs from a young age makes a big difference.
Do Wirehaired Pointing Griffons suit flats or smaller homes?
Needs plenty of space. A Wirehaired Pointing Griffon really needs plenty of space and a lot of daily activity — not ideal for a small flat.
Sources
- The Kennel Club — Korthals Griffon (Wirehaired Pointing Griffon) breed information: https://www.thekennelclub.org.uk/breed-standards/gundog/korthals-griffon/
- Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) — Griffon d'arrêt à poil dur Korthals breed standard: https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/WIREHAIRED-POINTING-GRIFFON-KORTHALS-107.html
- British Veterinary Association (BVA) — Canine Health Schemes: https://www.bva.co.uk/canine-health-schemes/
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Every dog is an individual — temperament and needs vary. Please research thoroughly, meet dogs in person, and consider adopting from a rescue. This is general guidance, not a substitute for advice from your vet or a qualified trainer.