Medium
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, sometimes called the 'supreme gundog,' is a French breed developed to work in all terrain and water conditions. Their distinctive double coat has a harsh, straight, wiry outer coat with a thick, downy undercoat — the combination creating the 'griffon' texture that gives the breed its name. Bushy eyebrows and a prominent beard and mustache are hallmarks of the breed's appearance.
Coat Type
Harsh, Straight, Wiry Outer Coat with Thick Downy Undercoat (Double Coat)
Groom Every
Every 6-8 weeks
Styles Available
4 cuts
Cuts & Styles
Grooming Styles
1
Natural Griffon Look
The coat maintained in its natural wiry state with hand rolling to remove dead outer coat. Eyebrows, beard, and mustache are shaped to the characteristic griffon appearance.
2
Hand Strip Show Coat
Full hand stripping of the dead wiry outer coat to maintain correct griffon texture and coat color. Facial furnishings precisely shaped for breed-standard presentation.
3
Pet Clip
The body coat clipped to a practical shorter length while the characteristic beard, mustache, and eyebrows are maintained. Softens the coat texture over time but is practical for pet owners.
4
Working Field Trim
Body coat trimmed shorter and beard reduced to a functional length to minimize debris collection and drying time after water and field work.
Expert Advice
Care Tips
- The griffon beard and mustache are the breed's signature feature and also its highest-maintenance area — comb and wipe these furnishings after every meal and outdoor session to prevent food accumulation and mat formation.
- Hand stripping the wiry coat twice yearly maintains both the correct harsh texture and the coat's natural steel-gray, brown, and roan coloring; clipping progressively mutes these colors over time.
- After water retrieves, the wiry coat sheds water reasonably well — a vigorous towel rub-down and moderate air drying is usually sufficient before brushing through the coat.
- The Griffon's eyebrows are bushy and expressive; keep only the tips trimmed to prevent eye irritation, not the full brow — the heavy eyebrows protect the eyes during work in dense cover.
- Check ears after field work without exception — the Griffon's pendant ears and love of water create conditions for recurring ear infections if moisture is not managed.
Recommended Tools
What you'll need
Miller's Forge Quality Nail Clipper
Nail CareUsed by professional groomers worldwide. Made of high-quality Italian stainless steel with a heavy-duty spring for clean, sharp cuts.
$10 - $15
Mars Coat King Undercoat Rake
BrushThe ultimate tool for double-coated breeds. Strips dead undercoat without damaging the guard hairs.
$40 - $60
FURminator Long Hair deShedding Tool for Dogs
BrushThe professional-grade deshedding tool that reaches deep beneath the long topcoat to safely remove loose undercoat without cutting or damaging the guard hairs. Reduces shedding up to 90% with regular use. Essential for heavy seasonal shedders like Collies, Golden Retrievers, and Maine Coons.
$30 - $65
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Deep Dives
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Grooming Guides
Summer Grooming
Heat management, coat care, and seasonal tips.
Read guide
Winter Coat Care
Cold-weather protection and moisture balance.
Read guide
Shedding Season
Survive the seasonal blowout without losing your mind.
Read guide
Prevent Matting
Detangle, prevent, and protect their coat year-round.
Read guide
Best Brushes
The right tools for this specific coat type.
Read guide
Nail Trimming
Safe nail care frequency and technique.
Read guide
Ear Cleaning
Prevent infections with proper ear care.
Read guide
Bathing Guide
How often to bathe and which products to use.
Read guide
Grooming Cost
What professional grooming should cost for this breed.
Read guide
Hypoallergenic
Shedding, dander, and allergy-friendly coat care.
Read guide
First-Time Owner
Grooming basics for new owners of this breed.
Read guide
Skin & Allergies
Itchy skin, hot spots, and coat-sensitive care.
Read guide
Dental Care
Oral hygiene tied to coat and skin health.
Read guide
Flea & Tick
Parasite prevention without damaging the coat.
Read guide
Pro vs DIY
When to groom at home and when to hire a pro.
Read guide
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