Dr. Sergey Uhanov Last updated: 9th October 2023Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer
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Dr. Sergey Uhanov Last updated: 9th October 2023The Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer, also called the Slovakian Rough-Haired Pointer or SRHP, among other names, is noble, obedient, and loyal. It is an excellent gundog and family companion, loved for its cheerful demeanor, eagerness to please, and boundless energy. Its wiry coat gives it a distinctive rustic appearance, and its amber eyes convey warmth and kindness.
Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer Pictures
Quick Information
| Other names | Slovakian Rough-Haired Pointer, Slovensky Hrubosrsky Stavac (Ohar), Slovak Pointing Griffon, Slovak Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, Slovak Wirehaired Pointing Dog |
| Coat | Short, wiry double coat |
| Color | Gray with some white markings |
| Breed type | Purebred |
| Group | Gundog |
| Life expectancy | 12-15 years |
| Size | Medium to large |
| Height | Male – 24.5 – 26.5 inches Female – 22.5 – 26.5 inches |
| Weight | 50 – 65 pounds |
| Litter Size | 3 – 6 puppies |
| Behavioral Characteristics | Loyal, cheerful, hard-working, intelligent, and obedient |
| Good with children | Yes |
| Barking Tendency | Moderate; they are chatty and tend to bark at strangers |
| Climate compatibility | High; they are capable of living in most conditions |
| Apartment compatibility | Low; they need plenty of outdoor exercise |
| Do they shed | They mostly shed in the summer |
| Are they hypoallergenic | Yes |
| Trainability | High |
| How much do they cost | $500 – $800 |
| Competitive Registration Qualification/ Information | FCI, UKC, NAVHDA |
| Country | Slovakia |
History and Origin
This relatively recent breed emerged during WWII in Czechoslovakia, in the Carpathian Mountains of modern-day Slovakia. Hunters developed new hunting methods requiring a dog with great stamina over land and water, capable of tracking and retrieving prey ranging from hares to deer. Breeder Koloman Slimak thus crossed the German Wirehaired Pointer, the Cesky Fousek, and the Weimaraner in the 1950s to create a dog adept at trailing game. Enthusiasts suggested the Weimaraner Club of Germany include it as a Rough-Haired Weimaraner but got turned down. After registering with the Slovakian Hunter’s Union, they continued development by introducing more Weimaraner and Pudelpointer traits.
The FCI recognized it in 1983, following which it entered the UK in 1997, receiving recognition from the UKC in 1998. The AKC currently includes it in its Foundational Stock Service, pending full integration. Today, the Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer is a popular gundog in its native Slovakia, with all registered breeding dogs requiring participation in working trials.
Temperament and Personality
These pets are loyal, clever, and eager. They are incredibly energetic, requiring vigorous outdoor exercise. Ideal for families with active lifestyles, they do best when given some outdoor job. Lack of physical and mental activity can make them moody, unruly, and destructive. Children make good playmates; however, their boisterous nature can pose a risk to younger kids, so be careful around them and practice proper socialization. Being social animals, they love their owners dearly and should not be left alone for long to avoid separation anxiety. Despite their size, they do not make good guard dogs. Once sufficiently tired, these companions are happy to lounge next to their master and receive love and affection.
Care
Exercise
These dogs need at least two hours of daily outdoor exercise to expend excess energy fully. They are excellent jogging, hiking, and biking partners, happy to trot or run alongside their owners. Adequate play in a fenced yard, daily brisk walks, and interactive games and puzzles are necessary for mental and physical growth. Dog sports such as obedience, agility, and scent trials are great options for you and your pet.
Grooming
This breed is relatively low maintenance, requiring occasional baths and wipes to stay hygienic. Brushing once or twice a week is enough to remove excess fur. You may use a shedding knife or grooming mitt to manage seasonal shedding. Check the ears for redness, trim the nails regularly, and practice good dental habits to prevent tartar build-up.
Health Problems
Usually a healthy breed, they may suffer from hip dysplasia, cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, atopic dermatitis, idiopathic epilepsy, discospondylitis, dental and ear problems, and allergies.
Feeding
Working dogs require a high-energy, nutrient-rich diet that can support their daily activities. Considering their age, weight, and energy levels, you should consult your veterinarian on the best options. Divide meals into two daily feedings and avoid overeating. Treats should make up just ten percent of their daily intake. Always provide clean, fresh water.
Training
Training is easy because it needs to please and will help your dog form strong family bonds becoming well-adjusted and loving.
Socialization: Early socialization is vital to help it adjust to children and strangers. Its high intelligence and energy may make training boring, so ensure it is varied. It is a sensitive dog, responding well to gentle commands and positive reinforcement. Being consistent, rewarding good behavior, and discouraging unruly habits will mold your dog into a well-behaved and dependable pet.
Obedience: Having a well-established outdoor exercise routine and providing a fenced yard makes house training easy. They tend to run off after prey, so training a recall is crucial.
Leash: Keep your dog leashed whenever in public; otherwise, its hunting instincts might make it give chase. Off-leash play should only be allowed in an appropriately fenced area. Make your dog heel beside you while holding the lead to establish leadership properly.
Interesting Facts
- In 2007, they featured as part of the “meet the breed” segment of the popular Crufts dog show in Britain.
- This breed is comparatively rare, with only a few thousand registered worldwide.
FAQs
It is called the Slovensky Hrubosrsky Stavac (Ohar) or Slovenský Ohař Hrubosrstý in the original Slovak. A few other languages refer to it as the Griffon d’arret Slovaque a Poil Dur, Grifon de Muestra Eslovaco de Pelo Duro, and the Slowakischer Rauhbart.
