Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Male: 23-27 kg, Female: 16-23 kg.
Male: 55-60 cm, Female: 50-55 cm at the shoulder.
12-14 years
Netherlands and France
About the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Known as the 'Supreme Gundog,' the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (or Korthals Griffon) was developed in the late 19th century by Eduard Korthals to be the ultimate versatile hunter. They are medium-sized dogs characterized by their distinctive 'chrysanthemum' face, featuring a prominent beard and eyebrows that give them a uniquely charming and intelligent expression. Their rugged, wire-like coat is weather-resistant, allowing them to excel in various climates and terrains, from icy marshes to dense thickets. Beyond their prowess in the field, Griffons are renowned for their 'velcro' personality, often forming an intense bond with their owners. They are highly trainable and excel in various canine sports, but they thrive most when they are an active part of the family unit. Their combination of a keen hunting instinct and a gentle, affectionate indoor temperament makes them one of the most balanced sporting breeds available for active households.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is distinguished by its 'Korthals' type—a robust, square-proportioned frame that suggests endurance rather than speed. The coat is the hallmark of the breed: it must be harsh and crisp to the touch, never curly or woolly, with a distinct undercoat. Their movement is a particular standout, characterized by a cat-like, rhythmic, and ground-covering gait that displays effortless coordination.
In Australia
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon breed standard was formally recognised by the Australian National Kennel Council (now Dogs Australia) in 1994.
Bred For
A versatile hunting dog capable of pointing and retrieving on both land and water, designed to work in dense cover and marshy terrain.
Temperament
Devoted, intelligent, friendly, and eager to please, with a gentle and outgoing nature that makes them excellent family companions.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, , , and eye conditions such as and . Like many floppy-eared breeds, they are also prone to chronic ear infections.
Grooming Needs
Moderate; the harsh, wire coat requires weekly brushing and twice-yearly hand-stripping to maintain its water-resistant texture and prevent matting. Occasional trimming of the beard and eyebrow hair is also necessary.
Living Suitability
Not suited for apartment living; requires a home with a medium-to-large securely fenced yard. They thrive in environments where they have regular access to the outdoors and plenty of space to burn energy.
Good with Kids
Excellent; known for being patient and gentle with children of all ages, though supervision is always recommended with younger children due to their athletic nature.
Good with Other Pets
Generally good with other dogs and can live harmoniously with cats if raised with them; however, their high prey drive means they should be monitored around smaller pets like rabbits or birds.
Trainability
Very high; they are exceptionally intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please, responding best to positive reinforcement and consistent, varied training routines.
Coat & Colours
Double coat: a hard, coarse, wire-like outer coat and a fine, thick, water-resistant undercoat.. Steel grey with liver (brown) markings, liver and white, liver roan, or solid liver.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are 'velcro dogs' and can be more likely to experience separation anxiety if left alone for long periods—they truly thrive on human companionship. While they are low shedders, their prominent beard can act as a sponge, often dripping water or collecting food debris, which requires regular wiping to maintain hygiene. Their floppy, hairy ears can be predisposed to moisture trapping and yeast infections, so weekly ear checks and cleaning are important. As a deep-chested breed, they may be more likely to experience bloat (GDV), so feeding smaller, frequent meals and avoiding vigorous exercise immediately after eating is a wise precaution. Some Griffons can develop sensitive digestive systems when fed high-carb commercial kibble; many owners find they thrive much better on a fresh, species-appropriate diet like Majestik. Their high intelligence and energy mean they can become bored and potentially destructive or vocal if their mental and physical needs aren't met, but a well-exercised Griffon is a remarkably calm and devoted housemate.
Feeding Guide for Your Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Healthy Weight
16-27 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
320-810 grams of fresh/raw food daily, based on a range of 16kg (inactive/female) to 27kg (active/male) at a 2-3% feeding rate.
For an adult Griffon, feed approximately 2-3% of their ideal body weight in high-quality fresh or raw food daily. For a 25kg dog, this equates to roughly 500-750g per day, split into two meals. Adjust based on activity levels and metabolism.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-protein, nutrient-dense diet rich in healthy fats to support their high activity levels, ideally consisting of fresh or raw whole foods that avoid excessive fillers and grains.
A balanced raw diet for a Griffon should prioritize high-quality Australian proteins such as Majestik’s Kangaroo (ideal for lean muscle) or Beef and Lamb for higher caloric needs. Incorporate fresh leafy greens and fish oils to support joint health and maintain the lustre of their unique wire coat. Given their active lifestyle, ensuring adequate caloric intake through animal fats is essential for sustained energy.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Wirehaired Pointing Griffon? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
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Made in Two Wells, South Australia
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Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-9 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.