Introduction

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is renowned for its exceptional skills as a hunting bird dog. Often affectionately called the Griff, these intelligent canines thrive on pleasing their families and forming strong bonds.

Originating in The Netherlands, the breed’s refinement took place primarily in France throughout the 1800s, according to Petscarelab’s canine archives. Although Wirehaired Pointing Griffons were initially bred to excel in hunting—both on land and in water—they also make devoted and loving companions in the home.

Caring for a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are medium-sized dogs standing between 20 and 24 inches tall and weighing 35 to 70 pounds. Their distinctive scruffy, wiry coat comes in beautiful shades of gray and brown. This coat sheds minimally and requires fairly simple grooming, though it’s important to note they are not classified as hypoallergenic.

These dogs are driven, eager to work, and deeply loyal. While they thrive performing outdoor tasks, at home they love nothing more than snuggling up close with their loved ones. Their keen intelligence makes them responsive to positive reinforcement training, and their active nature demands ample physical exercise paired with mental challenges to stay happy and healthy.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Health Issues

Overall, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons enjoy good health and typically live between 12 and 15 years. Yet, prospective owners should be mindful of a few common health concerns.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is an inherited condition where the hip joint develops abnormally, resulting in looseness that gradually wears down cartilage and bone. The body’s attempt to stabilize the joint leads to degenerative joint disease and osteoarthritis, causing pain, limping, and difficulty rising.

Keeping your Griffon trim and fit is vital to minimizing arthritis risk. Veterinarians often recommend gentle exercise routines and supplements rich in omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin for dogs affected by hip dysplasia.

For managing pain, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed. In severe cases where discomfort cannot be controlled, surgical options may be considered.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a hereditary condition that gradually destroys the photoreceptor cells in the retina, responsible for detecting light. Early signs include difficulty seeing in dim light, eventually leading to total blindness. Unfortunately, there is currently no effective cure for PRA.

Cataracts

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons have a higher prevalence of cataracts compared to many other breeds. Cataracts develop mostly in older dogs when the proteins and fibers within the lens break down, clouding vision and potentially progressing to blindness. This condition is typically inherited but can also result from diabetes or eye trauma.

While cataracts can cause inflammation and discomfort requiring medical care, no treatments exist to halt their progression. However, expert veterinary ophthalmologists can often restore sight through surgical removal of the cataract.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV)

Gastric dilatation-volvulus, a critical form of bloat, strikes suddenly and demands emergency care. It occurs when the stomach fills with gas or food and expands, sometimes twisting on itself, cutting off blood flow. Without rapid treatment, shock, tissue death, and even fatality can follow.

Dogs particularly at risk include:

• Older dogs with deep chests, like the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
• Dogs fed from raised food bowls
• Dogs fed just once daily

Immediate veterinary intervention is critical, often requiring surgery to reposition and secure the stomach. To prevent GDV, a prophylactic gastropexy surgery can be performed, often during spay or neuter procedures.

What to Feed a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Providing your Griffon with a diet that meets the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) standards ensures they receive balanced nutrition. Collaborate with your veterinarian to choose the best food tailored to your dog’s age, activity level, and health needs.

How to Feed a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Adult Griffons do well on two meals a day, whereas puppies benefit from three to four smaller feedings to maintain stable blood sugar. For older dogs, especially those with deep chests, smaller, more frequent meals can help reduce the risk of bloat.

Using a slow feeder bowl encourages slower eating, which helps prevent gastric issues. Avoid feeding your Griff from elevated bowls, as this practice may raise the likelihood of bloat and GDV.

How Much Should You Feed a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?

Caloric needs vary depending on your dog’s weight, metabolism, neuter status, and activity. Your veterinarian is the best resource to determine appropriate portion sizes. Additionally, feeding guidelines provided on your dog food packaging offer useful references.

Maintaining a lean, healthy weight supports your Griffon’s joint health and overall wellbeing.

Nutritional Tips for Wirehaired Pointing Griffons

While a high-quality AAFCO-listed diet supplies vital nutrients, adding omega-3 fatty acids (such as DHA and EPA) can be especially beneficial. Found in fish oil, skin and joint supplements, and some premium dog foods, these natural anti-inflammatories nurture healthy skin, a glossy coat, strong joints, and heart function.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Personality and Temperament

Despite their hardworking hunting heritage, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons exhibit a gentle, affectionate nature. These social dogs thrive on close relationships with their families and particularly enjoy outdoor adventures with their caretakers.

Though children and dogs always require supervision and guidance, Griffons are generally patient and gentle with youngsters when properly socialized from an early age.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Behavior

Their bird dog background means Griffons excel when given a purposeful activity that engages both mind and body. They need at least 20 minutes of exercise twice daily. Without sufficient interaction and mental stimulation, they may develop separation anxiety or destructive behaviors.

Their strong prey drive may entice them to chase smaller animals like cats or rabbits, so careful introductions are essential to maintain harmony among pets.

Though bred as tireless hunters, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a gentle companion who thrives on social bonds and pleasing their owners.

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Training

Highly intelligent and eager to please, Griffons respond exceptionally well to clear, concise commands combined with positive, game-based reinforcement. Consistent training strengthens their willingness to learn and bond.

Fun Activities for Wirehaired Pointing Griffons

• Obedience classes
• Scenic hiking adventures
• Fast-paced flyball
• Long, brisk walks
• Agility courses
• Hunting excursions
• Scent-based nose work

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Grooming Guide

With a wiry outer coat and a soft undercoat, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons shed very little. They are relatively easy to groom but benefit from regular brushing and occasional hand stripping to keep their coat healthy.

Skin Care

Bathing a Griffon just a few times annually helps preserve skin health. Overbathing—more than once monthly—may strip protective oils, leading to dryness.

Coat Care

Weekly brushing keeps the coat tidy, while some Griffons require routine hand stripping, a technique that removes hair by the root rather than cutting. Petscarelab experts note that trimming instead of hand stripping can cause the coat to grow back with an undesirable fuzzy texture.

Using conditioning sprays can smooth the coat, and trimming hair between the toes helps prevent tangles and irritation.

Eye Care

Gently wiping your Griffon’s eyes daily with a soft, damp cloth or pet-safe wipe clears debris and reduces irritation. Keep the hair around the eyes trimmed to avoid poking. Report any signs of squinting or discharge to your veterinarian promptly.

Ear Care

Cleaning your dog’s ears every week or two supports infection prevention. Watch for redness, unusual odors, or buildup—all of which necessitate veterinary attention.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are gentle, intelligent dogs eager to form strong bonds with their humans. They dislike long periods of solitude and flourish when given plenty of mental challenges and physical activity. With patience and training, they are typically patient with children and other pets.

Their low-shedding coat requires minimal upkeep, making them an excellent choice for active families ready to engage with a devoted and lively companion.

Do Wirehaired Pointing Griffons bark a lot?

These dogs often bark to alert their families about strangers, but when well-exercised and mentally fulfilled, they are not known to be overly vocal.

Do Wirehaired Pointing Griffons shed a lot?

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons shed very little but do need specific grooming to maintain their unique coat texture and health.

Is a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon a good family dog?

Absolutely. Griffons make wonderful family dogs for those who can devote time to exercise, play, and mental engagement. Their loyalty and eagerness to please make training relatively straightforward and enjoyable.