Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
Description
The Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer is a medium to large breed built for rugged versatility. Developed in the mid-20th century by crossing German Wirehaired Pointers, Cesky Fouseks, and Weimaraners, this dog excels in upland, water, and dense cover hunting. Its wiry, harsh coat in gray with white markings offers protection across varied terrains. These dogs typically weigh between 50 and 65 pounds, combining strength with agility. This breed thrives when given purposeful work alongside their owners. They have a strong drive to track and retrieve, making them excellent partners in the field. At home, they show affection and patience, especially with children, but their vocal nature and need for regular activity require committed handling. Their natural swimming ability and endurance set them apart from many pointers.
Grooming
The Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer’s coat is short, wiry, and harsh to the touch, designed to protect against rough brush and water. Shedding is low since dead hairs cling to the coat, so weekly carding is essential to remove loose strands and prevent matting. Use a light slicker brush gently to avoid damaging the coat’s texture. Every 8 to 12 weeks, handstripping is recommended to maintain the coat’s characteristic wiry feel and preserve its gray color with white markings. This breed experiences minimal seasonal coat changes, so grooming remains consistent year-round. - Card coat weekly to remove dead hair - Use a gentle slicker brush - Handstrip every 8–12 weeks - Check ears regularly for debris - Wipe paws after outdoor activity Pro tip: Handstripping yourself saves grooming costs and keeps the coat healthy.
Learn the Wiry routine:
→ Complete Wiry Grooming Guide
Walking
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers need about 100 minutes of walking daily, split into two sessions to manage their stamina and reduce boredom. Morning walks can focus on brisk exercise to burn off energy, while evening strolls provide mental stimulation through scent work or varied routes. This breed benefits from varied terrain to engage their tracking instincts and keep walks interesting. Example routine: - Morning: 50 minutes brisk walk with off-leash recall practice - Evening: 50 minutes slower walk incorporating scent games Short walks won’t satisfy this breed’s drive. Consistency and variety matter.
Boarding
When boarding a Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer, provide a crate sized between 42 and 48 inches to accommodate their medium-large frame comfortably. These dogs enjoy two active play sessions daily, ideally involving scent or brain games to stimulate their sharp minds. Staff should be aware of their vocal tendencies and provide consistent engagement to prevent boredom-related barking. Their natural swimming ability means access to water play can be a great enrichment option. Due to their strong work ethic and social nature, they do best with handlers who understand their need for mental and physical challenges. Quiet downtime should be balanced with interactive activities to keep them content during boarding stays.