German Wirehaired Pointer vs Harrier Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Drahthaar or Harehound?
Compare the German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Drahthaar or a Harehound? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you
Other names
Vorstehund, German Pointer (Wirehaired), Deutscher Drahthaariger, Drahthaar
Harehound
Weight
What is the average weight of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier?
65.0 pounds
( 29 kg )
52.5 pounds
( 24 kg )
Height
What is the average height of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier
25.5 inches
( 64.8 cm )
22.0 inches
( 55.9 cm )
Weight Gain Potential
Which breed eats more: German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
The German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds have an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.
Hypoallergenic
Are German Wirehaired Pointers or Harriers hypoallergenic, or neither?
No
Unfortunately, neither German Wirehaired Pointer nor Harrier are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.
Temperament
What are the personalities of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier dogs?
Active Friendly Loyal Responsive Affectionate Intelligent Willful
Active Friendly Sweet Tempered Cheerful Outgoing Tolerant
Shedding Level
Do German Wirehaired Pointers shed more than Harriers, or which breed sheds more, German Wirehaired Pointers or Harriers?
German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier dogs are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier. This will remove loose hair and keep their coat growing in the same direction.
Watchdog Ability
Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
Choose a German Wirehaired Pointer if you want a top-notch watchdog. This breed takes guarding seriously, and may not require much training, though obedience or guard dog training can improve their skills.
Harriers aren't great guard dogs; they tend to just watch without taking action.
Origin
What is the origin of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier dog breeds?
Germany
United Kingdom
Ancestry
What are the origins of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds?
griffon-type
scenthound
Date of Birth
When were German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds first developed?
1800s
1066 AD
Breed Group
What is the Breed Group of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier?
Sporting (AKC:1959) Gun Dog (UKC)
Hound (AKC:1885) Scenthound (UKC)
Eye Color Possibilites
What are the eye colors of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier dogs?
Brown
Hazel Brown Amber
Nose Color Possibilites
What are the natural nose colors of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier?
Brown Isabella
Black
Coat Color Possibilites
What are the natural colors of the coat for German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds?
Black Brown Red White Pied Brindle
Black Gray Brown Red Cream Fawn White Pied Sable Brindle
Coat Length
What is the typical coat length for German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds?
German Wirehaired Pointers have coats that can be either short or medium in length.
Harriers have short coats.
Coat Density
What is the density of the coat of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier?
Coat Texture
What is the hair texture of German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier?
Wiry
Straight
Litter Size
What is the usual litter size for German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier?
12-14 puppies per pregnancy
A German Wirehaired Pointer can have a litter of 12-14 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
10-12 puppies per pregnancy
A Harrier can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.
Adaptability
German Wirehaired Pointers are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.
Harriers have average adaptability to changes in lifestyle and living environments compared to other breeds.
Health Issues
Between German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier, which breed is more prone to health problems?
German Wirehaired Pointers are susceptible to health issues like all breeds, so it's important to monitor their health and seek veterinary care when needed.
The Harrier is prone to health issues and requires regular check-ups with a vet to identify and treat any problems early.
Major Concerns
What are the major health concerns for German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds?
Entropion Hip Dysplasia Von Willebrand's Disease
Hip Dysplasia
Minor Concerns
What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier?
Cataracts
Eye Disease
Occasional Tests
What occasional tests are recommended for German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds?
Eye Hip Dna For Vwd X-Rays Eye Examination
Eye Hip X-Rays Eye Examination
Energy
How do the energy levels of German Wirehaired Pointers and Harriers compare?
German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds are high-energy dogs, thus an active lifestyle suits them well.
Social Needs
German Wirehaired Pointer vs Harrier social needs comparison
German Wirehaired Pointer has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.
Harrier has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.
Exercise Needed
German Wirehaired Pointer vs Harrier exercise need comparison.
The German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier breeds need a high level of physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They also make great companions for people who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy running, hiking, or other outdoor activities. These breeds are not suitable for people with a sedentary lifestyle or those who live in small apartments.
Sleeping Need
Which of the two sleeps the most/least: German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier are active dogs that may not require as much sleep as other breeds. However, they still need enough sleep to stay healthy.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more/less, German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
German Wirehaired Pointer has low drooling tendency, suitable for those who dislike drool marks.
Harrier minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.
Tendency to Bark
Do German Wirehaired Pointers or Harriers bark more/less frequently?
German Wirehaired Pointers bark moderately when necessary and may also bark due to certain triggers like fear, alarm, boredom, greeting, separation anxiety and compulsive barking.
Harrier dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.
Territorial
Is the German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier a better guard dog?
German Wirehaired Pointer dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.
Harrier dogs are not typically good guard dogs due to their lack of protective nature and weak territorial drive.
Mouthiness
Mouthiness Comparison: German Wirehaired Pointer vs Harrier?
Roaming urge
German Wirehaired Pointer vs Labrador: Running away tendency?
Prey Drive
German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?
Activity Level
Which breed has higher energy, German Wirehaired Pointers or Harriers?
High
German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier are high-energy dogs that require a lot of mental and physical exercise. Without proper stimulation and attention, these breeds can become problematic. If you're considering these breeds, be prepared to invest time and effort in their exercise and training.
Tolerance of being left alone
Walks per Week
How many miles should German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier walk each week?
8 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For German Wirehaired Pointer, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
12 miles / week
There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Harrier, it's at least 12 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.
Activity per Day
Do German Wirehaired Pointers or Harriers require more exercise?
60 minutes
In general most German Wirehaired Pointers usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
90 minutes
In general most Harriers usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.
Grooming
Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, German Wirehaired Pointers or Harriers?
The German Wirehaired Pointer requires an average amount of grooming compared to other breeds.
The Harrier is a low-maintenance breed that doesn't require much grooming.
Brushing Frequency
What is the recommended brushing frequency for German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier dogs?
Weekly
German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.
Brushing Tools
What brushing tools are used for German Wirehaired Pointers and Harriers?
Pin Brush Slicker Brush Comb Deshedder Nail Clipper
Pin Brush Slicker Brush Nail Clipper
Cups
How much food should be given to German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier in cups?
2.5 cups
German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier share the same recommended daily food intake of 2.5 cups, although the appropriate quantity may vary depending on the quality and nutritional content of their food.
Daily Cost
Which breed has a higher daily cost, German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
$2.50 - $3.20 / day
German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier have a similar average daily cost of around $2.50 - $3.20.
Monthly Cost
Which breed has a higher monthly cost, German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
$74 - $95 / month
The average per month expenses of a German Wirehaired Pointer is between $74 - $95. This makes an average of $888 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
$84 - $95 / month
The average per month expenses of a Harrier is between $84 - $95. This makes an average of $1008 - $1140 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.
Intelligence
Comparing Intelligence: German Wirehaired Pointers vs Harriers
German Wirehaired Pointers are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.
Harrier has below average obedience intelligence, but they excel in understanding human emotions.
Sensitivity Level
How do German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier compare in sensitivity?
This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.
Harriers are adaptable and resilient, making them ideal for those seeking a less sensitive pet.
Affection Dependance
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: German Wirehaired Pointer vs Harrier?
Apartment Friendly
Which breed is more apartment-friendly: German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier are not apartment-friendly dog breeds. These dog breeds are best in homes with large, fenced-in yards. They are not suited for apartment life and can become destructive due to pent up energy from being in a small space.
Child Friendly
Do German Wirehaired Pointers or Harriers have a friendlier temperament towards children?
German Wirehaired Pointers have an average level of friendliness towards children.
Harriers make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.
Senior-friendly
Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
Cat Friendly
Do German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier breeds have a better compatibility with cats?
German Wirehaired Pointers are not cat friendly.
Harriers are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.
Dog Friendly
Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
German Wirehaired Pointers and Harriers are very friendly towards other dogs. This breed typically have a happy and affectionate temperament around dogs.
Pet friendly
How do German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier dogs interact with other pets?
Stranger Friendly
Which breed is more friendly with strangers: German Wirehaired Pointer or Harrier?
German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier are friendly dogs and typically won't bark at strangers. However, if you wish to change this behavior, training them is easy thanks to their intelligence, making it pretty simple to teach them anything.
Playfulness
Which breed is more playful between German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier?
German Wirehaired Pointers are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.
Harriers have an average level of playfulness, enjoying playtime like most dogs but not excessively so.
Trainability
How do the trainability levels of German Wirehaired Pointers and Harriers compare?
German Wirehaired Pointer and Harrier dogs are known for their ease of training and ability to learn quickly, making them a popular choice for pet owners and trainers alike.
