Deutsch Drahthaar vs German Wirehaired Pointer Explained

Deutsch Drahthaar vs German Wirehaired Pointer? They are the same breed by origin: "Deutsch Drahthaar" is the German name of the dog that English speakers call the German Wirehaired Pointer. The practical difference in North America is the breeding program. "Drahthaar" usually refers to dogs bred within the Verein Deutsch-Drahthaar (VDD) system with its own tests and breed shows, while "German Wirehaired Pointer" or GWP usually refers to dogs registered with the AKC.

Below we cover the name, what each program focuses on, size, temperament and which one fits you. Proud owner? See our Deutsch Drahthaar shirts.

Deutsch Drahthaar vs German Wirehaired Pointer: same breed?

Yes, by origin. The breed is a German wire-coated pointing dog, closely related to the German Shorthaired Pointer and the other German pointer breeds. The international federation FCI lists it under one standard, "Deutsch Drahthaar (German Wirehaired Pointer)," and accepted it definitively in 1954 (FCI breed nomenclature; also summarized on Wikipedia).

So what is the difference?

Hunters in the U.S. use the two names to separate breeding programs, not two different breeds.

The VDD-GNA site lists testing schedules, breed show guides and stud dogs, and describes the Drahthaar as "a passionate hunting dog with industry and endurance, calm by nature, friendly in relations" (VDD-GNA). The AKC describes the German Wirehaired Pointer as "a versatile, sturdy gundog who thrives on outdoor activity" and "an eager, affectionate, and amusing family companion" (AKC). If test results and hunting lines matter to you, ask any breeder which program the parents come from and which tests they passed.

What does drahthaar mean in German?

Roughly "wire hair." The full German name, Deutscher Drahthaariger Vorstehhund, means German wire-haired pointing dog.

Size and lifespan

The FCI standard (cited by Wikipedia) gives a height of 61 to 68 cm (about 24 to 27 inches) for males and 57 to 64 cm (about 22.5 to 25 inches) for females. A 2024 UK study reported a median lifespan of 13 years for the breed.

What is the temperament of a Deutsch Drahthaar?

A working dog first. VDD-GNA says that "as with every genuine working dog," the Drahthaar "needs legitimate specialty training and guidance" and only feels content "when given sufficient activity." The same page calls the breed "gentle with children and a suitable family dog." In short: great with an active hunting family, frustrating for a couch lifestyle.

Which one should you choose?

• You hunt a lot and want tested working lines: look at VDD-GNA breeders and test records.
• You want an AKC-registered dog for hunting, events and family life: look at AKC German Wirehaired Pointer breeders and still ask about hunting tests.
• Either way: plan on daily exercise and real field work.

Comparing other bird dogs? Read vizsla vs German Shorthaired Pointer and, for hunting days with your dog, what to wear pheasant hunting.

Shirts for Drahthaar owners

Our Deutsch Drahthaar designs show the dog on a pheasant or duck hunt with a custom name. Styles vary by design and include hoodie, long sleeve shirt, T-shirt and zip-up hoodie. Check each product page for exact styles and sizes.

FAQ

Is a German Wirehaired Pointer the same as a Drahthaar?

Same breed by origin. In North America, "Drahthaar" usually means a dog from the VDD breeding and testing program, while "GWP" usually means an AKC-registered dog.

What does drahthaar mean in German?

It means "wire hair," a nod to the breed's coarse, weatherproof coat.

What is the temperament of a Deutsch Drahthaar?

Driven and hard working in the field, friendly with people and, per VDD-GNA, gentle with children when it gets enough activity and training.

How big does a Deutsch Drahthaar get?

Per the FCI standard, males stand about 24 to 27 inches and females about 22.5 to 25 inches at the shoulder.