The GWP was developed over a hundred or so years ago in Germany. They are the ultimate hunting dogs; developed for their versatility and hunting instinct with a wire coat to protect them from the different climates and terrain they would work in. The GWP as we know it today, has been bred from crossing in the early development, a number of breeds – early GSP, Pudelpointer, Griffon, Stichelhaar and Polish Water Dogs.
The GWP is an all round gundog. A specialised dog able to Hunt, Point and Retrieve. This gives the dog its Versatility. They are excellent retrievers, supreme pointers and also good trackers. The true all round hunting gundog.
The outer coat of a GWP is thick, harsh and close fitting, usually of no longer than 1.5 inches if correct. Therefore the wirehair is a lot more low maintenance than longer coated dogs. They do not drop their coat twice a year like many breeds or shed their coat drastically. However all dogs do shed their coat whether it be noticeable or at a slower and less noticeable rate like the wire.
A correct coat should require the minimum of attention, and basically will just require some “tidying” up to remain neat. Daily grooming is essential, it removes debris possibly picked up while the dog is exercising and allows the owner to find any cuts or scratches that a dog may have suffered.
The GWP is a highly active dog with a lot of energy. They were bred to work a day in the field and therefore yes they need a good amount of exercise. The adult wirehair has unlimited energy and will take as much exercise and free running as you can give them.. It is essential they go out everyday and if possible are given free running.
No the GWP has never been bred to guard, so to buy one solely as a guard dog is completely inappropriate. The GWP can be aloof with strangers but this is only an initial reaction although they are very loyal to their family and much prefer the company of people they know. They do have a deep bark which will deter intruders and they will protect their family but to buy one as a guard dog is not for this breed.
The wirehair responds well to training but the training must be fair and coupled with a sense of discipline. Wirehairs are a sensitive breed and certainly do not take well to harsh correction. When training a wire it must be assured that all commands are carried out by the dog first time as the breed does have a stubborn streak, but this is usually down to incorrect basic training or confusion over what the owner or handler is telling the dog.
Providing training is given to the dog fairly and a mutual respect on both sides is built up, then you will see and enjoy the wires true personality. The GWP has a clown like side to his character, a complete love of life and a total desire to please his owner. They are active busy dogs and the most interesting and loving of breeds. Many owners of the breed will say that you never totally stop training a GWP.