The Scotia Kennel

Versatile. Defined.

Resource Center

We’ve outlined simple steps to help you maintain a clean, shiny, and healthy GWP coat, making life with your whiskered companion easier.

For German Wirehaired Pointer breeders, the goal is to produce a dog with a low-maintenance coat that naturally repels dirt, burrs, and water. However, this doesn’t always happen. Whether you’re a pet owner or a hunter, you don’t want to spend hours styling your Wirehair; instead, you want a tidy dog who doesn’t track mud from the yard or soak up water in their beard every time they drink.

Check out Laura’s video for more tips!

Grooming should be a fun bonding time, not a chore. Start early, and regular weekly sessions will keep the coat in great shape. Just 30 minutes a week is all it takes, and your dog will love the attention! Click the video to learn more.

GWP Daily Care

German Wirehaired Pointers are active, high-energy dogs that thrive on outdoor adventures with their human companions. They make excellent partners for long walks, hikes, and any activity that keeps them engaged and moving..


Exercise

German Wirehaired Pointers are high-energy dogs that thrive on regular exercise. Daily activities like long walks and play sessions with their owner keep them happy and healthy. They also excel in mentally and physically stimulating activities such as hunting, obedience, tracking, and agility. These activities help engage both mind and body, strengthening the bond between dog and owner while keeping them fit.


Feeding

To keep your German Wirehaired Pointer in top shape, feed them high-quality dog food suitable for their age and activity level. Puppies, adults, and seniors all have different dietary needs, so adjust accordingly. If you're unsure about your dog’s diet or weight, don’t hesitate to consult your vet. Always ensure fresh, clean water is available to keep them hydrated and healthy.


Health

While German Wirehaired Pointers are generally healthy, there are specific health concerns related to the breed. It’s important to work with a responsible breeder who tests for common genetic conditions, ensuring the health and longevity of the dog. Regular check-ups with your vet help catch potential issues early. Collaboration among breeders is key to preserving the breed's health and qualities for future generations.


Personality

Wirehairs are affectionate dogs who love being close to their owners, often seeking physical contact. Without enough attention, they may create their own entertainment, leading to behaviors like barking, digging, and shredding. Ensuring they get enough mental and physical stimulation is crucial to their well-being. If left unstimulated, they can become frustrated and engage in less desirable activities.


Bed Time

Wirehairs love to sleep in bed with their owners, but it’s best to crate-train puppies for the first 6 to 12 months. This helps establish boundaries and keeps them from thinking they’re in charge. Once they’ve learned proper behavior, sleeping in your bed can be a privilege, but it should be earned. If they misbehave, the privilege can easily be revoked to maintain respect and structure.


Trainability

German Wirehaired Pointers are intelligent, eager to please, and generally easy to train. Early socialization and puppy training classes are highly recommended to ensure they develop into well-mannered companions. Their versatility, athleticism, and keen intelligence make them excel in a variety of canine sports and activities, from obedience to agility, tracking, and hunting.

Shop Vendor Row

German Wirehaired Pointer Overview

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a well-muscled, medium-sized dog known for its weather-resistant, wiry coat and distinctive facial furnishings.

The moderately long head has brown, oval eyes, bright and clear, with medium-length eyebrows. The ears are rounded, close to the head, and the skull is broad. The muzzle is straight and parallel to the skull, with a dark brown nose and wide-open nostrils. A spotted or flesh-colored nose is undesirable.

Body

The neck is medium-length, slightly arched, and free of dewlap. The chest is deep with well-sprung ribs, and the back is short, strong, and straight. The tail is high-set, carried at or above horizontal, and docked to about two-fifths of its original length.

Forequarters

The shoulders are well laid back, and the forelegs are straight with elbows close. The legs are strong but not too heavy, allowing for natural agility. The feet are round, webbed, high-arched, with thick, hard pads and strong nails. Dewclaws are usually removed.

Coat

The wiry coat is the breed’s signature feature—weather-resistant and water-repellent. It’s harsh, flat-lying, and 1-2 inches long, with shorter coat on the legs and between the toes. The skull is covered with short, close-fitting hair. The beard and whiskers are medium-length, and the eyebrows are strong and straight.

Hindquarters

The hindquarters mirror the forequarters in balance, with strong, muscular thighs and straight, parallel hocks. Dewclaws are generally removed, and the feet are like the forequarters.

Height: 22 to 26 inches
Temperament: Affectionate, Eager, Enthusiastic
Weight: 45 to 75 pounds
Life Expectancy: 14 to 16 years
Coat Color: Black, Brown, Gray, White
Barking Level: Medium

Watch our latest Pure Dog Talk videos

Pure Dog Talk Training Series

Watch All

Health FAQs


How do you think about reducing health issues in your puppies?

I start with the healthiest dogs I can. Dogs which are tested clear of as many genetic diseases as is scientifically possible. I only include dogs in the breeding program that have been tested clear for multiple generations. If I encounter an issue (Mother Nature is a surly mistress….) I do extensive research to identify and eliminate the problem where at all possible.

What health problems commonly occur in German Wirehaired Pointers?

The most impactful issues in the breed are autoimmune thyroiditis. In itself, it is easily manageable with medication. But it is just one of a number of more serious autoimmune diseases. It indicates a hereditary potential for the body to attack itself in other areas. All Scotiadawgs in the breeding program are required to be “normal” for thyroid function. Hip dysplasia, some cancers and other more random diseases of dogs are seen, although less frequently.

Can you tell me about any health tests you perform on your dogs and why?

Our breeding dogs are tested for and certified clear of: hip and elbow dysplasia, heart and eye abnormalities and autoimmune thyroiditis.

If you have done health testing, where can I see the results?

All results are available at OFA by searching for the dog’s registered name. I am happy to supply links to any of the dogs in question.

Have any of the dogs in your breeding program ever been afflicted with these conditions?

Yes. As has often been noted, “Man plans and God laughs….” As my contract clearly spells out, all of my dogs are guaranteed for life to be free of hip dysplasia or hypothyroid or they will be replaced or have the purchase price returned at the preference of the owner. I spare no expense or amount of time to ensure my dogs are healthy and stand behind that guarantee without exception.