Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

A working partner across fields, woodland and water

Dutch breeder Eduard Korthals developed the breed during the second half of the nineteenth century, aiming for a dog able to perform several hunting tasks. Its history connects the Netherlands, Germany and France. The international canine organisation FCI lists France as its country of origin. Korthals Griffon is another name for the breed.

A pointing dog searches for the scent of game, then pauses and uses its body position to indicate where the animal is hidden. The Griffon also retrieves game and tracks injured animals. This stamina and interest in scent help explain why a walk can become an opportunity to investigate the ground around it.

The coarse outer coat covers a dense, finer undercoat. Steel grey with brown patches is a common colour, with solid brown and other combinations also described in the standard. The beard and eyebrows are characteristic features. The FCI standard gives shoulder heights of approximately 55 to 60 centimetres for males and 50 to 55 centimetres for females.

The Griffon usually wants to be closely involved with its family. It can alert people to changes around the home and enjoys learning with a familiar handler. An adult should guide interactions with children and make sure the dog can rest undisturbed. Birds and other wildlife may trigger its hunting instincts outdoors, which should influence plans for walks and free running.

Everyday life

A healthy adult Griffon needs substantial daily exercise and activities that engage its mind. Varied country walks, guided scent work and finding and retrieving a training object can suit it well. A familiar training object could first be placed where it is easy to see, with simple hiding places making the search more interesting later. A suitable training club can help you build these skills together.

Even a large garden does not replace shared outings. The Griffon was selected to work with people and should be able to participate in family life. Convenient access to countryside routes and a securely fenced space make it easier to provide both varied exercise and free running.

Coming back when called should first be practised and rewarded in quiet surroundings. In areas with wildlife, a long lead attached to a suitable harness can help prevent a chase. Learning to be left alone also takes gradual practice. For longer absences, arranging care is more useful than trying to exhaust the dog with ever more exercise beforehand.

Everyday dog training: recall, a loose lead and clear communication ↗

Day-to-day care

The harsh coat should be brushed or combed several times a week. Small twigs, dirt and plant material can collect in the beard and leg hair after outings. A damp cloth can remove food and dirt from the beard, which should then have a chance to dry.

Some coats also benefit from hand stripping. This removes old hairs that are ready to come out, helping maintain the harsh texture. An experienced groomer can show you which approach suits your dog’s coat and when it needs attention.

The hanging ears should be checked regularly for redness, unusual smell or discharge. Repeated head shaking or scratching should be assessed by a vet. Cleaning products and techniques should be agreed with the practice. Toothbrushing with dog toothpaste and checking the nails are also part of routine care.