Temperament:
The German Wirehaired Pointer is very affectionate, active and intelligent. Eager to learn and loyal to its family, it needs a handler who is consistent in approach. They like to be occupied and enjoy working for their owner. They are friendly with those they know, but are naturally aloof with strangers and should be socialized at an early age. Can be rather willful and they like to roam. Powerful and energetic they can become bored and hard to manage without enough exercise. The German Wirehaired Pointer is a good all-around gun dog, able to hunt any sort of game on any sort of terrain. This dog has a good nose and can track, point, and retrieve on both land and water. Steady, lively and vigorous. They do best with older, considerate children; very affectionate with its master and can become jealous. Some may try to dominate other animals but most will get along well with other dogs and household animals. They make good watchdogs.

Grooming:
The coat of the German Wirehaired Pointer should be brushed about twice a week with a firm bristle brush. Some stripping of the coat is needed, but this isn't very difficult. The hairs should be hand plucked occasionally depending on the condition of the coat. It is usually thinned in the spring and fall. Bathe only when necessary. The hair of the coat should be as hard as possible but must not look untidy. Check the ears to make sure they are clean. The feet should be checked after the dog has been out working. This breed is an average shedder.

Exercise:
This dog is extremely energetic and tireless. It is very important that it gets daily vigorous exercise to prevent extreme indoor restlessness. This breed is more than a match for even the most active family and they should not be taken on as a family pet unless they can guarantee plenty of vigorous exercise. They need to be taken on a daily, brisk, long walk, jog or run alongside you when you bicycle. They are excellent jogging companions and love to swim and retrieve.

Living Condition:
The German Wirehaired Pointer is not recommended for apartment life. They can be somewhat high strung and very active indoors; needs plenty of exercise to prevent extreme indoor restlessness. They will do best with at least a large yard.

Origin:
The German Wirehaired Pointer was developed in the beginning of the 20th century in Germany from careful crosses of the German Pointer with many other breeds. Sources differ on the exact lineage, though the Wirehaired Griffon, Poodle-Pointer mixes, Foxhound and Bloodhound are all mentioned as possible contributors. This is a dog that can fully respond to the needs of its hunter.