Cons of Owning a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
The
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a beloved breed among hunters and active families due to its intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. However, like all breeds, it comes with challenges. Understanding these potential downsides helps ensure that this breed is a good match for your lifestyle.
1. High Exercise Needs
Energetic and athletic, Griffons require substantial daily physical activity. They are not content with short walks or limited yard time.
- Griffons thrive on hiking, running, or intensive play sessions.
- Lack of exercise can lead to behavioral issues such as barking and destructiveness.
- Not suitable for inactive families or apartment living.
2. Prone to Separation Anxiety
These dogs are
deeply attached to their humans and prefer to be involved in daily life.
- Leaving them alone for long hours can result in anxiety and destructive behavior.
- Crate training and gradual desensitization can help, yet they still need company.
3. Sensitive to Harsh Training
Griffons are
intelligent and eager to please but sensitive to tone and treatment.
- Harsh training methods can break trust and cause resistance.
- They respond best to positive reinforcement and short, varied training sessions.
4. Grooming Requirements
Despite being considered
low-shedding, Griffons need consistent grooming to maintain coat health.
- Weekly brushing minimizes tangles and dead hairs.
- Hand-stripping of the coat is occasionally required.
- Regular ear, nail, and dental care are necessary due to their drop ears and active lifestyle.
5. Health Concerns
Though generally healthy, Griffons are susceptible to several
hereditary health issues.
- Hip and elbow dysplasia.
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), cataracts, and entropion.
- Thyroid disorders, allergies, diabetes, and heart diseases like aortic stenosis.
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus) risk necessitates cautious feeding practices.
6. Not Ideal for Apartment Living
Given their
size and energy level, these dogs need space to move and explore.
- Lack of space may lead to restlessness and boredom.
- A home with a yard or access to parks is more suitable.
7. May Be Wary of Strangers
Without proper socialization, Griffons can exhibit
timidity or aloofness.
- Early and frequent introductions to various people and pets are crucial.
- Structured training can minimize shyness and help them adapt.
8. Specialized Needs
Because of their
hunting heritage, Griffons do best in homes that can fulfill their innate drives.
- They prefer physically and mentally challenging tasks like tracking or retrieving.
- May not be content in a home with no outlet for their instincts.
Conclusion
While the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is an outstanding companion for active, outdoors-oriented families, it requires a significant commitment to **exercise, training, socialization**, and **health care**. If you can meet these needs, you’ll be rewarded with a loving, intelligent, and hard-working companion. However, potential owners should seriously consider these challenges before bringing one home.
