Drenther

Breed Description

The Deutsch Drahthaar, or German Wirehaired Pointer, is one of the most versatile hunting breeds, originating in Germany in the late 19th century. This breed was developed with the aim of creating the ideal hunting dog, capable of working in various conditions-on land and in water, in forests, fields, and wetlands. The Drahthaar embodies the qualities of the best hunting breeds in Europe at that time, combining versatility, endurance, and sharp intelligence.

The idea of creating the Drahthaar was conceived by a group of German hunters and dog experts who aimed to develop a dog that met all hunting requirements. A key figure in this process was Baron Siebel, who conducted experiments by crossing various breeds, including the Stichelhaar, Poodle Pointer, Korthals Griffon, and English Pointer. Each of these ancestors contributed unique traits: from the Stichelhaar, the Drahthaar inherited a wiry coat and endurance; from the Poodle Pointer-intelligence and trainability; and from the English Pointer-speed and elegance of movement.

The first efforts to standardize the breed began in the 1870s and 1880s, when hunters realized a unified standard was needed to establish the desired traits. In 1897, the “German Club of Wirehaired Pointers” was formed, which began maintaining studbooks and testing dogs for their working qualities. Drahthaars underwent strict selection: only those demonstrating high performance, endurance, keen scenting ability, and trainability were retained. Special attention was paid to the dogs’ temperament; they were required to be loyal to their owner while also being confident and independent in their work.

An important feature of the Drahthaar is its wiry coat, which provides protection against cold water, prickly bushes, and other challenges faced during hunting. The versatility of this breed has allowed it to gain popularity not only in Germany but also in other European countries and later in North America. Drahthaars have become indispensable helpers for hunters due to their ability to work both as a pointing dog and as a retriever.

The breed was fully established by the early 20th century and gained international recognition for its working qualities and temperament. Today, the Drahthaar remains one of the most popular hunting breeds, combining versatility, endurance, and loyalty. Its history exemplifies how careful selection and determination can create the perfect companion for hunters.

The price for a puppy ranges from 30,000 to 62,000 rubles.

Appearance

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a muscular and sturdy medium-sized dog with a harmoniously built body that emphasizes its versatility and endurance. Its appearance combines strength and elegance, making the breed not only an effective hunter but also an aesthetically appealing one. The coarse coat is one of the most distinctive features of the breed: dense, rough fur with a thick undercoat provides protection against various weather conditions, while the characteristic “beard” and “whiskers” give the dog expressiveness and a unique appearance.

The average height of the German Wirehaired Pointer is 61-68 cm for males and 57-64 cm for females. The weight ranges from 25 to 35 kg, providing the dog with an excellent balance of strength and agility. This build allows the German Wirehaired Pointer to work in the most challenging conditions, from swamps to dense forests. The flexibility and strength of its body make it ideal for long hunting outings.

The average lifespan of a German Wirehaired Pointer is 12-14 years. With proper care, a balanced diet, and regular physical activity, the dog maintains its energy and working ability well into old age. The appearance of the German Wirehaired Pointer reflects its primary purpose-to be a reliable, resilient, and versatile companion for hunters, as well as a loyal companion in any situation.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The head of the Drentse Patrijshond is proportional to its body, with a pronounced skull of medium width and clear lines. The forehead is slightly rounded, smoothly transitioning to the muzzle, highlighting the working appearance of the dog. The overall look of the head gives the Drentse Patrijshond a serious and focused expression.

Морда

The face of the Drahtaar is long, powerful, and slightly tapered toward the nose. The upper line of the muzzle is straight, which emphasizes the balance between elegance and functionality. The nose is large, well-pigmented, usually black or dark brown, depending on the coloration.

Уши

The drathaars have medium-length ears that are high-set and floppy, fitting closely to the head. They are covered in short fur that is soft to the touch, making them less prone to dirt. The ears are movable, allowing the dog to respond to sounds while working.

Глаза

The eyes of the Drahthaar are medium-sized, oval-shaped, and set slightly deeper than those of other hunting breeds. Their color ranges from dark brown to light amber, depending on the coat. The expression in their eyes is always intelligent, vibrant, and alert, reflecting the dog's readiness for action.

Зубы

The teeth of the drathaara are strong, with a scissor-like bite that ensures a reliable grip. The complete set of teeth emphasizes the strength of the jaws, which are perfectly suited for handling prey. The teeth are always even, and the jaws are powerful but not coarse.

Корпус

The body of the German Wirehaired Pointer is robust, with well-developed muscles that highlight its endurance. The chest is deep but not excessively wide, allowing the dog to move easily. The back is straight and strong, leading to a slightly arched loin that supports flexibility and maneuverability. The abdomen is taut, emphasizing the working qualities of the breed.

Конечности

The limbs of the drathaar are straight, muscular, and strong, perfectly suited for prolonged exertion. The front legs are straight and stable, while the hind legs have well-defined joint angles that provide propulsion for running and jumping. The paws are compact and round, with dense pads that help the dog navigate difficult terrain.

Хвост

The tail of a drahthaar is of medium length, set at the level of the spine. It is most often docked to 1/2 or 1/3 of its length in countries where this is permitted, which is helpful in a working environment. The tail is covered with dense, stiff fur and maintains a straight form, highlighting the strength and harmony of the body.

Шерсть

The wiry coat of the Drathaar is stiff and thick, with a dense undercoat that protects against cold, water, and injuries in harsh conditions. The top coat is coarse, of medium length, and lies close to the body, while the undercoat is soft and warm. The distinctive "beard" and "mustache" on the face give the breed a unique and recognizable appearance.

Окрас

The color of the Drathaar can be gray with spots, brown with spots, solid brown, or with white markings. The distribution of colors is always harmonious, emphasizing the working nature of the breed. Each color perfectly blends into the natural environment, making the dog inconspicuous while hunting.

Character

The Drathaar is a dog with a vibrant character that combines loyalty, intelligence, and natural energy. Its temperament is shaped by its working qualities, resulting in independence and a high degree of trainability. This breed quickly establishes a strong bond with its owner, demonstrating incredible loyalty and a willingness to complete assigned tasks. The Drathaar loves to be useful and always strives to please, making it an excellent companion not only for hunters but also for active families.

Drathaars possess a well-developed hunting instinct, which is reflected in their habits. They enjoy exploring territory, running, sniffing around, and finding interesting objects. Their ability to focus on tasks allows the Drathaar to work effectively in the most challenging conditions. At the same time, it remains playful and curious, especially at home, where it eager to participate in all family activities.

The Drathaar is an energetic breed that requires significant physical and mental stimulation. Without active walks, play, and training, it can become bored, sometimes leading to destructive behavior. It enjoys long walks, obeying commands, and even participating in sports disciplines such as agility or tracking. Dogs of this breed value interaction with humans and thrive best when they feel needed.

These dogs are wary of strangers and can be good guardians, maintaining vigilance and calmness. However, with proper socialization, they become balanced and friendly, easily getting along with other animals and children. The Drathaar needs an owner who can be a confident leader, combining firmness with kindness. This breed is ideal for those who are ready to provide an active lifestyle, constant attention, and the opportunity to express its natural talents.

Care and Maintenance

The Wirehaired Pointer requires regular grooming that takes into account its coat characteristics, activity level, and needs. Its coarse coat needs periodic trimming, especially during seasonal shedding, to remove dead hair and keep the coat in good condition. Brushing once or twice a week helps prevent tangling and maintains its protective qualities. The Wirehaired Pointer should only be bathed when necessary, as frequent washing can strip the coat of its natural oils, which protect the skin from the elements.

This breed has a high level of activity and needs daily long walks, runs, and training. The Wirehaired Pointer loves tasks that require cleverness, so it happily participates in training and games such as searching for objects or following complex commands. Its working instincts need to be expressed, so activities that allow it to showcase its natural talents, such as hunting, sports competitions, or joint hikes, are suitable.

The Wirehaired Pointer values its owner’s attention and the opportunity to be part of the family. It enjoys spending time outdoors, participating in shared activities, and showing initiative. However, it does not handle boredom and inactivity well: if left without attention and physical exercise, the Wirehaired Pointer may develop destructive behaviors or excessive excitement. Additionally, this breed does not like prolonged solitude, as it is oriented toward close contact with humans.

The Wirehaired Pointer does not tolerate harsh or unfair treatment. It responds better to kind but firm guidance. This breed values stability, respect, and clear behavioral boundaries, which helps it remain balanced and loyal. Proper care, attention to the Wirehaired Pointer’s physical and emotional needs makes it an ideal companion for active individuals willing to share an energetic and fulfilling lifestyle.

Training and Education

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a breed with high intelligence and a strong character, so its training must be consistent, patient, and based on respect. These dogs learn quickly, especially when the training is interesting and varied. It’s important to start training at an early age when the puppy is most receptive to new knowledge and rules. The German Wirehaired Pointer responds best to positive reinforcement: praise, treats, or playtime. Harsh training methods are unacceptable, as they can lead to stubbornness or a decrease in trust toward the owner.

Training a German Wirehaired Pointer should include tasks that allow it to use its natural instincts. It enjoys commands related to searching, retrieving items, and navigating the environment. These dogs are particularly successful in hunting training, where they can demonstrate their sense of smell and ability to analyze situations independently. However, even if a German Wirehaired Pointer is not used for hunting, it needs intellectual challenges to stay engaged and active.

The German Wirehaired Pointer chooses an owner who demonstrates confidence, calmness, and consistency in their actions. It intuitively senses authority and obeys those who show care and leadership qualities. This breed aims to please but needs an owner who can establish clear boundaries and behavioral rules. The German Wirehaired Pointer values emotional connection and listens best to a person with whom it has warm and trusting relationships.

These dogs are suitable for active individuals who can provide them with adequate physical and mental stimulation. The German Wirehaired Pointer does not tolerate rough treatment or inconsistent upbringing. It needs an owner who respects its character and understands the breed’s needs. With the right approach, a German Wirehaired Pointer becomes a reliable, obedient, and loyal partner, ready for work and adventures. We offer the best, who care for every puppy from the first days of its life.

How to Choose a Puppy

Selecting a dachshund puppy requires careful consideration to ensure that it grows into a healthy representative of the breed. The first step is to find a reputable breeder who is registered with an official kennel organization. It’s important to verify that the puppies are raised in healthy conditions, receive quality nutrition, and have access to socialization. A good breeder will willingly share information about the puppy’s parents, their achievements, and personality traits.

A dachshund puppy should be active, curious, and friendly. Pay attention to its behavior: a healthy puppy shows interest in people and the surrounding world, isn’t afraid of new experiences, and shows no signs of aggression. Appearance is also important: the coat should be dense and coarse, the eyes clear, the ears clean, and the body strong and proportional. Observe the puppy’s movements – its gait should be smooth, without signs of limping or weakness.

Documents confirming the puppy’s lineage play a crucial role. The puppy card or certificate contains information about the parents, including their titles, health tests, and achievements in shows or working trials. Make sure the parents have been tested for genetic diseases, such as joint dysplasia, to minimize the risks of hereditary conditions. It is also necessary to check the puppy’s veterinary passport, which should list vaccinations, deworming, and overall health status.

The breeder should allow you to see the puppy’s parents. Their appearance, behavior, and temperament provide insight into what the puppy may grow up to be. The parents should be confident, calm, and meet breed standards. Also, pay attention to the conditions in which the puppies are kept: cleanliness, ample space, and care reflect the breeder’s conscientiousness. Choosing a dachshund puppy wisely ensures it will become a healthy, well-balanced companion that meets breed standards. Learn how at Zooinika and get a great pet.

Health and Diseases

The Drentse Patrijshond is generally considered a robust and resilient breed; however, there are some hereditary and age-related health issues that owners should be aware of. One of the most common problems is hip and elbow dysplasia, which is typical for large and active breeds. To reduce the risk of this condition, it is important to choose a puppy from parents who have been screened for this issue and to monitor the dog’s physical activity, especially at a young age.

Another prevalent issue among Drentse Patrijshonds is a tendency toward skin diseases. The wiry coat and dense undercoat can cause skin irritation if not properly cared for or exposed to external irritants. Regular brushing and skin inspections can help prevent problems like dermatitis or allergic reactions. The breed is also prone to ear infections, especially if the dog frequently works in water. Regular ear cleaning and inspections are an essential part of care.

Some Drentse Patrijshonds may suffer from eye diseases, such as progressive retinal atrophy, which leads to deteriorating vision. Regular veterinary check-ups and timely identification of problems can help avoid complications. It’s also important to note that, as working dogs, Drentse Patrijshonds can develop bloat (torsion). To prevent this, it’s essential to feed the dog small portions several times a day and avoid vigorous physical activity immediately after meals.

The health of a Drentse Patrijshond largely depends on proper care, balanced nutrition, and regular veterinary visits. Timely vaccinations, parasite treatments, and routine check-ups are crucial to maintaining the dog’s activity and endurance throughout its life. With proper care, Drentse Patrijshonds can live 12-14 years, remaining healthy and active.