Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon — the Korthals Griffon — is a versatile gun dog with a documented founder and studbook.

History

Eduard Korthals, a Dutchman working in Germany and France, began it in 1874 and kept detailed records of every dog he used, which makes the breed's construction unusually traceable. He wanted a slow, close-working pointer with a harsh coat for cold water and rough cover, and bred to that specification for twenty years.

Temperament

The breed is known for being affectionate, eager to please and close-working, gentle at home and thorough in the field — often called the supreme gundog for how closely it stays with its handler.

Care and training

It needs a great deal of exercise and hunting work. The harsh coat with its beard and eyebrows needs brushing and occasional stripping. It trains willingly and takes harshness badly.

Health

Generally sound, with hip dysplasia and ear infections among the known tendencies. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.