Breed of the Month: Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a versatile, intelligent, and affectionate sporting dog known for its rugged good looks and exceptional hunting skills. With its distinctive coarse, wiry coat and expressive eyes, this breed thrives in active households and loves to work alongside its owner whether in the field, on the trail, or in the backyard. 

If you’re considering adding a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon to your family or you already have one, you’ll need to understand their high energy levels, mental needs, and unique grooming requirements. 

Breed Overview 

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons were originally bred in Europe in the late 1800s for upland bird hunting and water retrieving. Their weather-resistant coat and boundless stamina make them excellent companions for hunters, hikers, and active families. 

Energy & Exercise Needs 

If there’s one thing you should know about the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, it’s that they are a high energy dog breed with a strong working drive. They require daily physical exercise such as long walks, runs, or off-leash play and mental enrichment including scent games, hunting simulations, or puzzle toys. 

Without enough activity, this intelligent breed can become bored, leading to unwanted behaviors. Because they were bred as versatile gun dogs, they excel in sporting dog activities like field trials, retrieving, and agility. 

💡 Pro Tip from The Mill: Stock up on durable retrieval toys, field training bumpers, and enrichment puzzles to keep your Griffon both mentally and physically engaged. Shop toys & training tools here. 

Nutrition for an Active Lifestyle 

A Wirehaired Pointing Griffon’s high metabolism and active lifestyle call for premium, performance-focused sporting dog nutrition that supports muscle recovery, joint health, and sustained energy. 

The Mill recommends the following hunting dog food formulas: 

Coat Care & Grooming 

That signature shaggy, wiry coat isn’t just for looks. It helps protect the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon from the elements. Weekly brushing keeps the coat clean and free of debris, and hand-stripping a few times a year maintains coat texture. Occasional baths and regular ear checks are also essential, especially after hunting, swimming, or hiking trips. 

💡 At-Home Grooming Tip: The Mill carries gentle, dog-safe shampoos, detangling sprays, and grooming tools so you can maintain that rugged coat between trips to the groomer. Shop grooming supplies. 

Training & Socialization 

Known for their eagerness to please, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons respond well to positive reinforcement training. Start early with basic obedience and expose them to different people, places, and other animals. This builds confidence and ensures they grow into well-mannered companions both in the field and at home. 

Because they’re such a high energy dog breed, training sessions can double as exercise by incorporating retrieving drills or scent work to keep their minds and bodies engaged. 

💡 Training Boost: Pair obedience lessons with training treats for faster results. The Mill offers high-value, nutrient-rich rewards perfect for sporting dogs. Shop training treats. 

The Perfect Companion for Active Families