Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer
Male: 25-35 kg, Female: 20-30 kg
Male: 62-68 cm, Female: 57-64 cm at the shoulder
12-15 years
Slovakia
About the Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer
The Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer, or Slovenský Hrubosrstý Stavač, is a relatively modern breed developed in the aftermath of World War II. Created by crossing the German Wirehaired Pointer, the Cesky Fousek, and the Weimaraner, this breed was engineered to be the ultimate versatile hunter. They possess the endurance of a marathon runner and the focus of a specialist, combined with a striking 'shaded grey' coat that distinguishes them from other wirehaired breeds. Despite their working prowess, they are remarkably affectionate companions that form deep bonds with their human handlers. In the home, they are significantly more relaxed than many other high-energy gundogs, provided their physical and mental needs have been met. They are known for their 'soft' mouths and gentle nature with their family, though they remain alert and protective of their domain. Their unique look, characterized by a beard and pronounced eyebrows, gives them a distinguished, soulful expression that matches their thoughtful and sensitive personality.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer is the epitome of rugged elegance. The breed standard emphasizes a noble head with a moderate stop and the characteristic 'beard' that must not be excessive but adds to their distinct profile. Their movement is characterized by a ground-covering, rhythmic trot that demonstrates immense reaching power and drive. The coat quality is a primary focus; it must be harsh and wiry to the touch, providing a 'weatherproof' shield, while the shaded grey color should be uniform and luminous.
In Australia
The history of the Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer includes its formal recognition by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1983.
Bred For
A versatile 'HPR' (Hunt, Point, Retrieve) gundog capable of working in the field, forest, and water.
Temperament
Intelligent, obedient, and eager to please; they are known for their loyalty to their family and a generally calm disposition indoors when properly exercised.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
, (), and occasional follicular dysplasia or skin irritations.
Grooming Needs
Moderate; the wire coat requires weekly brushing and occasional hand-stripping to remove dead hair and maintain the harsh texture.
Good with Kids
Generally very good with children, particularly active older children who can participate in their exercise routines.
Good with Other Pets
Usually good with other dogs; however, due to a high prey drive, they should be socialized early and supervised with small pets like cats or rabbits.
Trainability
Highly trainable; they are exceptionally intelligent and respond best to positive reinforcement and consistent, varied training sessions.
Coat & Colours
Wirehaired, hard, straight, and close-lying with a dense undercoat.. Shaded grey (varying from silver-grey to dark grey) with or without white markings on the chest and feet.
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
As a deep-chested breed, the Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer is more likely to experience Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat). This is a serious condition, but it can often be managed by feeding smaller meals and avoiding vigorous exercise immediately after eating. They are also prone to ear infections due to their pendant ear shape, so a quick weekly ear check and clean will keep them comfortable. Because they are highly intelligent and bond closely with their owners, they can be predisposed to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods without mental stimulation—providing puzzle toys or a good morning run usually helps them settle beautifully. Their strong prey drive is a hallmark of their hunting heritage, meaning they might be tempted to chase local wildlife, but this same drive makes them incredible partners for hiking or scent work games. They are truly 'velcro dogs' who just want to be part of the pack, making them wonderfully devoted companions for an active household.
Feeding Guide for Your Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer
Healthy Weight
25-35 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
625-875 grams
For a Wirehaired Slovakian Pointer, a raw diet should focus on high-quality proteins such as kangaroo, beef, or lamb. Based on an average weight of 25-35 kg, an adult dog should consume between 625g and 875g of fresh food daily (calculated at 2.5% of body weight). Puppies and highly active working dogs may require up to 3-4% of their body weight to maintain condition.
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
High-protein, moderate-fat diet to support their high energy levels and lean muscle mass; fresh or raw diets are highly suitable.
A balanced raw diet for this breed should include approximately 70% muscle meat (lean kangaroo or beef from Majestik Pet Food is ideal for maintaining their athletic frame), 10% edible bone (such as turkey necks or lamb ribs), 10% organ meats (liver, kidney, or heart), and 10% seasonal leafy greens and berries. Because they are a deep-chested breed, it is recommended to split their daily intake into two smaller meals to reduce the risk of digestive upset.
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 Slovakian Pointer 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 Slovakian Pointer? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
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
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
5-8 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.