German Hund Pointer
The German Hund Pointer is a cross between the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Dachshund. Because each hybrid inherits a unique combination of traits from both parents, we recommend thoroughly researching both breeds before choosing a German Hund Pointer. Pay special attention to temperament, health issues, and care requirements, as your dog may express characteristics from either parent breed.
German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer is a sturdy, medium to large-sized hunting dog that combines power with athletic grace and functional versatility. Males typically stand 24 to 26 inches at the withers and weigh 60 to 70 pounds, though some individuals reach up to 90 pounds of well-muscled bulk. Females measure slightly smaller at 22 to 24 inches and weigh 45 to 60 pounds. The breed presents a well-muscled, balanced appearance with a body that is slightly longer than tall, enabling the endurance and agility required for demanding fieldwork across varied terrain. The head is moderately long with a broad skull, and the muzzle is long and wide with open nostrils ideally suited for scenting game at impressive distances. The most distinctive feature of this breed is its unique wire coat, which provides exceptional protection against harsh weather conditions and rough terrain including thorns and brambles. The outer coat is wiry, harsh, and weather-resistant, typically measuring one to two inches in length on the body. A dense undercoat develops during colder months to provide insulation and diminishes in warmer weather to prevent overheating. The breed sports distinctive facial furnishings including bushy eyebrows that protect the eyes from brush and debris, plus a substantial beard and whiskers that give the face a distinguished, wise appearance. These facial features are functional as well as visually characteristic of the breed. Coat colors typically include liver and white, which may appear as solid liver, liver roan, liver and white spotted, or liver and white ticked patterns. Black and white variations also occur, following similar patterns. The breed possesses webbed feet that aid significantly in swimming, making them exceptional water retrievers capable of working in cold water for extended periods. The tail is customarily docked in countries where the practice remains legal, carried at or above horizontal when the dog is actively working. The overall impression is of a noble, highly functional hunting dog whose rugged appearance clearly reflects its versatility in both field and water work.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament German Wirehaired Pointers can be reserved and aloof with strangers, displaying a watchful nature that makes them effective watchdogs. Early socialization is essential to ensure they develop appropriate responses to new people, animals, and situations. Their strong prey drive, inherited from their hunting heritage, means careful introductions are necessary with smaller pets. The breed generally gets along well with children, particularly those who can match their energy level, though their exuberance may overwhelm very young children. With proper training and socialization, the German Wirehaired Pointer becomes a devoted family companion that balances its working drive with genuine affection.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Gastric dilatation-volvulus, commonly known as bloat, poses a life-threatening risk for this deep-chested breed. This emergency condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas and potentially twists on itself, cutting off blood supply to vital organs. Owners should learn to recognize early symptoms including restlessness, unproductive retching, excessive drooling, and a distended abdomen. Preventive measures include feeding multiple smaller meals rather than one large meal and avoiding vigorous exercise around feeding times. Additional health concerns include hypothyroidism affecting metabolism, aortic stenosis affecting heart function, exercise-induced collapse causing temporary weakness, and dental problems including malocclusion. Regular veterinary checkups and maintaining healthy weight help support overall wellbeing throughout this breed's typically long life.
Dachshund
The Dachshund possesses one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the entire canine world, featuring a distinctively long body mounted on short, powerful legs. The breed comes in two sizes: standard Dachshunds weigh 16 to 32 pounds and stand 8 to 9 inches tall, while miniatures weigh under 11 pounds and measure 5 to 6 inches at the shoulder. Despite their small stature, these dogs were originally bred in Germany to pursue badgers and other burrowing prey into underground dens, requiring a long, flexible body capable of navigating tight tunnels while still possessing the courage and tenacity to confront fierce opponents. The chest is deep and well-developed, providing ample lung capacity for the stamina needed in sustained hunting activities. The breed exhibits three distinct coat varieties, each with its own texture and grooming requirements that appeal to different owner preferences. Smooth Dachshunds sport a short, sleek coat that lies close to the body and requires minimal maintenance beyond occasional brushing. Longhaired Dachshunds display wavy, flowing fur with elegant feathering on the ears, chest, underside, and legs, requiring regular brushing to prevent tangles and mats. Wirehaired Dachshunds possess a rough, wiry outer coat with a softer undercoat, plus distinctive facial furnishings including a beard and bushy eyebrows that give them a characteristically wise expression. Coat colors present remarkable diversity across all three varieties and include numerous combinations. Common colorations include solid red in various shades, black and tan, chocolate and tan, cream, and blue. Pattern variations include dapple featuring lighter patches on a darker base, brindle with tiger-like striping, and piebald with large white patches. The head is elongated and tapers uniformly toward the nose, featuring intelligent, alert eyes that express the breed's keen awareness and bold personality. Ears are long, rounded, and set near the top of the head, framing the face attractively. The tail follows the line of the spine and is carried as a natural, slightly curved extension when the dog is active and alert.
Key Characteristics
Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Temperament Training a Dachshund requires patience and consistency, as the breed's intelligence is paired with notable independence and occasional stubbornness. They learn commands readily but may choose whether to comply based on their assessment of the situation. Positive reinforcement methods work best, as harsh corrections can damage the bond and trigger defensive behaviors. Early socialization helps moderate the breed's tendency toward wariness with strangers. Dachshunds generally do well with older children who understand how to handle them gently, as their long backs make them vulnerable to injury from rough play. Despite their challenges, well-trained Dachshunds make devoted, entertaining companions with personalities that far exceed their physical dimensions.
Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations Health Considerations The breed experiences several additional health concerns including patellar luxation where the kneecap slips out of position, epilepsy causing seizure disorders, and Cushing's disease involving excess cortisol production. Various cancers affect the breed, and eye conditions including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy may develop. Double dapple Dachshunds, resulting from breeding two dapple-patterned dogs together, face significantly elevated risks of deafness and blindness due to genetic factors. Portosystemic shunt, where blood bypasses the liver, occasionally appears in the breed. Despite these concerns, Dachshunds typically enjoy lifespans of 12 to 16 years when properly cared for, with miniatures averaging around 13.5 years.
Important to Remember
Each hybrid dog is unique and may inherit any combination of traits from either parent breed. The information above represents the characteristics of the purebred parent breeds. Your German Hund Pointer may favor one parent over the other or display a blend of both. We strongly encourage you to read the complete breed profiles for both the German Wirehaired Pointer and Dachshund to fully understand the range of possible temperaments, health concerns, and care requirements.