Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer

The Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer is a hunter and retriever breed with a distinctive wirehaired coat that provides protection in harsh environments.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Breed overview

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are highly intelligent and active dogs that make great companions for active families and owners who love the outdoors. They are friendly and affectionate with their families, but may be reserved with strangers. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation and excel in working and hunting roles. Proper socialization and training are essential to prevent shyness or fearfulness.

Height:
Weight:
Life expectancy:

What To Expect When Caring For a Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer

Nutrition

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers require a high-quality diet that is appropriate for their age and activity level. It's important to provide them with a balanced diet that includes meat-based protein, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates.

Free feeding should be avoided and portion sizes should be controlled to prevent obesity. Dogs should also have access to clean drinking water at all times to prevent dehydration.

Training

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are highly trainable but can be stubborn at times. Positive reinforcement methods work best when training this breed.

They respond well to consistency and leadership, so it's important for owners to establish themselves as a strong but fair leader. Early socialization and training is important to prevent negative behaviors from developing.

Grooming

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a distinctive wirehaired coat that requires regular grooming to keep it in good condition. Their coat should be brushed at least once a week to remove any loose hairs or debris.

They should also be bathed a few times a year to keep their coat clean and smelling fresh, but over bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.

Their nails should be trimmed regularly and their teeth should be brushed daily to maintain good dental hygiene.

Health

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, eye problems, and allergies.

It's important to work with a veterinarian to ensure your dog stays healthy and receives regular preventative care to catch any potential health issues early on.

Exercise

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are an energetic breed that require plenty of exercise to keep them happy and healthy. They enjoy long walks, hikes, and runs with their owners.

They also excel at dog sports like agility, obedience, and flyball. Providing plenty of physical and mental stimulation is important to prevent destructive behaviors and promote a healthy lifestyle.

Discover the joy of unconditional love and loyal companionship by adopting a dog today!

Open your heart and home to a furry friend eagerly waiting to become your loyal life companion. By choosing to adopt, you are giving a deserving dog a second chance at happiness and supporting the fight against pet overpopulation.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Traits & Characteristics

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are medium-sized dogs with a muscular build. They stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 44 and 57 pounds.

The breed has a distinctive wirehaired coat that helps protect them from harsh weather and brush while out on hunts. They come in a variety of colors including grey, brown, and roan.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a strong, athletic build that is well balanced. Their head is in proportion to their body, and they have a broad skull with a defined stop. Their ears are set high and their eyes are rounded and hazel.

Affection

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

independent lovey-dovey

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are loyal and affectionate dogs, but they can take some time to warm up to strangers. They bond strongly with their families and enjoy spending quality time with their owners. This breed has a playful energy, and they will show their affection with lots of cuddles and tail wags.

Children

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

not suitable for kids great with kids

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can do well with children who are respectful and gentle with them. They have a lot of energy and are always up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war. However, they may be too boisterous for very young kids, and it's important to supervise any interactions between the dog and child. Proper socialization is essential, and the dog should be taught to respect boundaries.

Dogs

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

not dog friendly very dog friendly

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are friendly dogs that generally get along well with other dogs. They enjoy playing and running around with canine companions, and their high energy levels means they can keep up with even the most active pooches. However, due to their strong prey drive, they may not do well with smaller animals like cats or rabbits.

Strangers

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can be reserved or aloof around strangers and may take some time to warm up to new people. However, with proper socialization and positive reinforcement training, they can learn to be more welcoming to unfamiliar faces. It's important to expose them to a variety of people and situations to prevent shyness or fearfulness.

Playfulness

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

laid-back very playful

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are incredibly playful and energetic dogs. They love to play fetch, tug-of-war, and other interactive games. They have a lot of stamina and can run and play for hours on end. This breed is an excellent choice for active families or owners who love to spend time outdoors.

Alertness

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

less alert very alert

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are alert and vigilant dogs that make excellent watch dogs. They are always aware of their surroundings and will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger or intruders. They are also intelligent dogs that can learn to perform a variety of tasks and jobs.

Adaptability

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

less adaptable very adaptable

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are adaptable dogs that can do well in a variety of living situations. They are equally comfortable living in a rural or urban environment as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. However, they do require a lot of attention and interaction from their owners and may become destructive if left alone for long periods.

Shedding

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

no shedding hair everywhere

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a thick, wiry coat that sheds minimally. However, their coat does require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Additionally, they may shed more during the spring and fall when they are shedding their undercoat. While they are not completely hypoallergenic, this breed is a good choice for those with mild dog allergies.

Grooming

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

low maintenance high maintenance

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a low-maintenance coat that does not require frequent bathing or trimming. However, they do require regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and shiny. This breed has hair that grows in their ear canals, so it's important to clean their ears weekly to prevent infections. They also require regular nail trimming and teeth brushing to maintain their overall hygiene.

Drooling

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

dry mouthed heavy drooler

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are not heavy droolers and are generally considered a clean breed. However, they may drool if they are excited or have been drinking a lot of water. It's important to keep a towel on hand to wipe any drool or saliva that may occur.

Size

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

very small very large

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are medium-sized dogs that typically weigh between 40 and 55 pounds. They stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a muscular, athletic build that is well-suited for hunting and other active pursuits.

Energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

couch potato high energy

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are high-energy dogs that require a lot of exercise and playtime. They enjoy long walks, jogs, and hikes, as well as playing games like fetch and tug-of-war. This breed is an excellent choice for active families or owners who love to spend time outdoors.

Exercise

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

low exercise needs high exercise needs

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers require a lot of exercise and physical activity to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy long walks, runs, hikes, and games of fetch or tug-of-war. They have a high-energy level and require at least 2 hours of exercise each day. This breed is best suited for active owners who can provide them with plenty of opportunities to burn off their excess energy.

Working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

not suitable for working great for working

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are highly intelligent and make excellent working dogs. They have a strong work ethic and make great hunting or tracking dogs. They enjoy performing tasks and jobs for their owners and excel in agility and obedience competitions.

Hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers were originally bred for hunting, and have a natural instinct to chase and retrieve prey. They excel at hunting a variety of game, including birds and small mammals. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and hunting is an ideal way to provide them with both.

Vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

low-drive high vigor

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are robust and vigorous dogs that have a lot of stamina and endurance. They enjoy physical activity and can run and play for hours on end. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy, and can thrive in an active household.

Health

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

less healthy very healthy

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are generally healthy dogs that do not have many breed-specific health concerns. However, like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. It's important to buy from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings and to provide them with regular veterinary care.

Obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can be prone to weight gain and should be fed a healthy, balanced diet to prevent obesity. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and may become bored or anxious if they are not given enough opportunities to burn off their excess energy. It's important to monitor their weight and provide them with regular exercise.

Cold

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a thick, weather-resistant coat that can protect them from cold and wet weather. However, they may require extra warmth and protection during extremely cold temperatures, and it's important to provide them with a warm, dry place to sleep and rest.

Heat

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a thick, weather-resistant coat that can protect them from sunburn and heatstroke. However, they may require extra cooling and shade during extremely hot weather, and it's important to provide them with access to fresh water at all times.

Apartment

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are not well-suited for apartment living due to their high energy levels and exercise needs. They require a lot of space to run and play, and apartment living may not provide enough room for them to expend their energy. They are better suited for living in a house with a large yard or in a rural environment.

Wanderlust

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

less likely to wander very likely to wander

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a moderate tendency to wander or roam. They enjoy exploring their surroundings and may chase after small animals like squirrels or rabbits if left unchecked. It's important to keep them on a leash or in a secure, fenced area to prevent them from running off or getting lost.

Sensitivity

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

less sensitive very sensitive

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can be sensitive dogs that may become stressed or anxious if they are exposed to harsh or negative training methods. They respond best to positive reinforcement training and praise and should be treated gently and with patience. They require a lot of socialization and mental stimulation to prevent fearfulness or shyness.

Separation

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods. They form strong bonds with their families and may develop separation anxiety if they are not socialized properly. They require a lot of attention and mental stimulation to prevent boredom or destructive behavior.

Barking

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

quiet very vocal

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are alert dogs that will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger or intruders. However, excessive barking can be a problem with this breed if they are not properly trained and socialized. They may also bark if they become bored or anxious.

Mental

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are highly intelligent dogs that require a lot of mental stimulation and engagement. They enjoy learning new things and performing tasks or jobs. This breed is an excellent choice for owners who are looking for a dog with a lot of drive and enthusiasm for life.

Novice_owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are intelligent and eager-to-please dogs that can be good choices for novice owners. However, they do require a lot of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation, and may become destructive or develop behavioral issues if their needs are not met. It's important to socialize them early and provide consistent, positive reinforcement training.

Trainability

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

difficult to train easy to train

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are highly intelligent and easily trainable dogs. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and enjoy learning new things. They have a strong work ethic and make excellent hunting or tracking dogs. This breed requires a lot of mental stimulation and challenges to prevent boredom or destructive behavior.

Affection

independent lovey-dovey

The degree to which a breed shows love and affection towards its human family members.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are loyal and affectionate dogs, but they can take some time to warm up to strangers. They bond strongly with their families and enjoy spending quality time with their owners. This breed has a playful energy, and they will show their affection with lots of cuddles and tail wags.

Children

not suitable for kids great with kids

How well a breed interacts with children, including tolerance for play and energy level.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can do well with children who are respectful and gentle with them. They have a lot of energy and are always up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war. However, they may be too boisterous for very young kids, and it's important to supervise any interactions between the dog and child. Proper socialization is essential, and the dog should be taught to respect boundaries.

Dogs

not dog friendly very dog friendly

The breed's friendliness and sociability towards other dogs.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are friendly dogs that generally get along well with other dogs. They enjoy playing and running around with canine companions, and their high energy levels means they can keep up with even the most active pooches. However, due to their strong prey drive, they may not do well with smaller animals like cats or rabbits.

Strangers

reserved with strangers friendly with everyone

The breed's reaction to unfamiliar people, including whether they tend to be wary or friendly.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can be reserved or aloof around strangers and may take some time to warm up to new people. However, with proper socialization and positive reinforcement training, they can learn to be more welcoming to unfamiliar faces. It's important to expose them to a variety of people and situations to prevent shyness or fearfulness.

Playfulness

laid-back very playful

The breed's activity level and tendency to engage in play and games.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are incredibly playful and energetic dogs. They love to play fetch, tug-of-war, and other interactive games. They have a lot of stamina and can run and play for hours on end. This breed is an excellent choice for active families or owners who love to spend time outdoors.

Alertness

less alert very alert

The breed's level of awareness and vigilance, which can affect their ability to perform certain tasks or jobs

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are alert and vigilant dogs that make excellent watch dogs. They are always aware of their surroundings and will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger or intruders. They are also intelligent dogs that can learn to perform a variety of tasks and jobs.

Adaptability

less adaptable very adaptable

The breed's ability to adjust to new environments and situations, including whether they are adaptable or may become stressed.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are adaptable dogs that can do well in a variety of living situations. They are equally comfortable living in a rural or urban environment as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. However, they do require a lot of attention and interaction from their owners and may become destructive if left alone for long periods.

Shedding

no shedding hair everywhere

The amount of hair a breed sheds, which can affect allergies and cleanliness.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a thick, wiry coat that sheds minimally. However, their coat does require regular brushing to prevent matting and tangles. Additionally, they may shed more during the spring and fall when they are shedding their undercoat. While they are not completely hypoallergenic, this breed is a good choice for those with mild dog allergies.

Grooming

low maintenance high maintenance

The amount of maintenance required to keep a breed's coat healthy and clean.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a low-maintenance coat that does not require frequent bathing or trimming. However, they do require regular brushing to keep their coat healthy and shiny. This breed has hair that grows in their ear canals, so it's important to clean their ears weekly to prevent infections. They also require regular nail trimming and teeth brushing to maintain their overall hygiene.

Drooling

dry mouthed heavy drooler

The amount of saliva a breed produces, which can affect cleanliness and potential drool-related issues.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are not heavy droolers and are generally considered a clean breed. However, they may drool if they are excited or have been drinking a lot of water. It's important to keep a towel on hand to wipe any drool or saliva that may occur.

Size

very small very large

The breed's overall size, including their weight and height.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are medium-sized dogs that typically weigh between 40 and 55 pounds. They stand between 22 and 26 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a muscular, athletic build that is well-suited for hunting and other active pursuits.

Energy

couch potato high energy

The breed's overall activity level, including their need for exercise and play.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are high-energy dogs that require a lot of exercise and playtime. They enjoy long walks, jogs, and hikes, as well as playing games like fetch and tug-of-war. This breed is an excellent choice for active families or owners who love to spend time outdoors.

Exercise

low exercise needs high exercise needs

The breed's need for physical activity and exercise to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers require a lot of exercise and physical activity to stay happy and healthy. They enjoy long walks, runs, hikes, and games of fetch or tug-of-war. They have a high-energy level and require at least 2 hours of exercise each day. This breed is best suited for active owners who can provide them with plenty of opportunities to burn off their excess energy.

Working

not suitable for working great for working

The breed's suitability for working and performing certain tasks or jobs.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are highly intelligent and make excellent working dogs. They have a strong work ethic and make great hunting or tracking dogs. They enjoy performing tasks and jobs for their owners and excel in agility and obedience competitions.

Hunting

not suitable for hunting great for hunting

The breed's natural hunting abilities, including their prey drive, scenting abilities, and tracking skills.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers were originally bred for hunting, and have a natural instinct to chase and retrieve prey. They excel at hunting a variety of game, including birds and small mammals. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and hunting is an ideal way to provide them with both.

Vigor

low-drive high vigor

The breed's physical stamina and endurance, including their ability to maintain high levels of activity and energy.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are robust and vigorous dogs that have a lot of stamina and endurance. They enjoy physical activity and can run and play for hours on end. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy, and can thrive in an active household.

Health

less healthy very healthy

The breed's overall health and potential health issues, including whether they may be prone to certain illnesses or conditions.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are generally healthy dogs that do not have many breed-specific health concerns. However, like all breeds, they may be prone to certain health issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems. It's important to buy from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings and to provide them with regular veterinary care.

Obesity

not prone to obesity highly prone to obesity

The breed's tendency to gain weight and become overweight or obese, including whether they require extra monitoring and exercise.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can be prone to weight gain and should be fed a healthy, balanced diet to prevent obesity. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation, and may become bored or anxious if they are not given enough opportunities to burn off their excess energy. It's important to monitor their weight and provide them with regular exercise.

Cold

not cold tolerant high cold tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate cold weather conditions, including whether they require extra warmth and protection.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a thick, weather-resistant coat that can protect them from cold and wet weather. However, they may require extra warmth and protection during extremely cold temperatures, and it's important to provide them with a warm, dry place to sleep and rest.

Heat

not heat tolerant high heat tolerance

The breed's ability to tolerate hot weather conditions, including whether they require extra cooling and protection.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a thick, weather-resistant coat that can protect them from sunburn and heatstroke. However, they may require extra cooling and shade during extremely hot weather, and it's important to provide them with access to fresh water at all times.

Apartment

not suitable for apartments great for apartments

The breed's suitability for new or inexperienced dog owners, including their trainability and temperament.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are not well-suited for apartment living due to their high energy levels and exercise needs. They require a lot of space to run and play, and apartment living may not provide enough room for them to expend their energy. They are better suited for living in a house with a large yard or in a rural environment.

Wanderlust

less likely to wander very likely to wander

The breed's tendency to wander or roam, including whether they may become lost or require a lot of supervision.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers have a moderate tendency to wander or roam. They enjoy exploring their surroundings and may chase after small animals like squirrels or rabbits if left unchecked. It's important to keep them on a leash or in a secure, fenced area to prevent them from running off or getting lost.

Sensitivity

less sensitive very sensitive

The breed's sensitivity to criticism or negative reinforcement, including whether they may become stressed or anxious.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can be sensitive dogs that may become stressed or anxious if they are exposed to harsh or negative training methods. They respond best to positive reinforcement training and praise and should be treated gently and with patience. They require a lot of socialization and mental stimulation to prevent fearfulness or shyness.

Separation

not suitable for alone time great at being alone

The breed's tolerance for being left alone, including whether they may become anxious or destructive.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers can become anxious or destructive if left alone for long periods. They form strong bonds with their families and may develop separation anxiety if they are not socialized properly. They require a lot of attention and mental stimulation to prevent boredom or destructive behavior.

Barking

quiet very vocal

The amount of barking a breed tends to do, including whether they may be vocal or prone to excessive barking.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are alert dogs that will bark to alert their owners of any potential danger or intruders. However, excessive barking can be a problem with this breed if they are not properly trained and socialized. They may also bark if they become bored or anxious.

Mental

happy to lounge needs a job or activity

The breed's need for mental stimulation and engagement, including whether they are intelligent and require challenging activities.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are highly intelligent dogs that require a lot of mental stimulation and engagement. They enjoy learning new things and performing tasks or jobs. This breed is an excellent choice for owners who are looking for a dog with a lot of drive and enthusiasm for life.

Novice_owners

not suitable for novice owners great for novice owners

Some dogs are simply easier than others; they take to training better and are fairly easygoing. They're also resilient enough to bounce back from your mistakes or inconsistencies.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are intelligent and eager-to-please dogs that can be good choices for novice owners. However, they do require a lot of attention, exercise, and mental stimulation, and may become destructive or develop behavioral issues if their needs are not met. It's important to socialize them early and provide consistent, positive reinforcement training.

Trainability

difficult to train easy to train

The ease of training a breed, including whether they are intelligent, obedient, and willing to learn.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are highly intelligent and easily trainable dogs. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and enjoy learning new things. They have a strong work ethic and make excellent hunting or tracking dogs. This breed requires a lot of mental stimulation and challenges to prevent boredom or destructive behavior.

Similar breeds

Filters:

History of the Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer

The Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer was developed in the 1950s by Slovakian breeders who were looking to create a versatile hunting dog that could work in harsh environments.

To accomplish this, they bred German Wirehaired Pointers, Weimaraners, and Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs together. The result was a breed that had the hunting instincts of the Wirehaired Pointer but was able to handle a variety of terrain and game.

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Puppies

Slovakian Wirehaired Pointers are a relatively rare breed, so finding a breeder may be challenging. When looking for a breeder, it's important to find one with a good reputation who health tests their breeding dogs for genetic issues.

Puppies should be socialized early and consistently to ensure they grow up to be well-adjusted adults. Early training is also important to ensure they grow up to be obedient and controlled.