Deutsch Stichelhaar
Summary
The Deutsch Stichelhaar — "German rough-haired" — is probably the rarest and least modernized of the German pointing dog breeds. Bred from crosses between Griffon, Pointer, Poodle, and Foxhound, it has a shorter coat than the Korthals Griffon and slightly rougher than the German Wire-Haired Pointer. It is considered by cynologists the quintessential "gamekeeper's dog" — balanced, courageous, and with a strong protective instinct, but surprisingly calm and "ruig" (rugged) in the best sense of the word.
Physical Characteristics
- Size
- Large
- Height (male)
- 60–70 cm
- Height (female)
- 58–68 cm
- Weight (male)
- 27–34 kg
- Weight (female)
- 25–32 kg
- Life Expectancy
- 10–12 years
- Coat
- Rough, hard, and flat (~4 cm on the body); sparse but present undercoat; pronounced eyebrows and moderate beard; soft feathering on the legs
- Common Colors
- Solid brown (with or without a white chest patch); brown roan (dark or light) with or without brown patches
Temperament & Personality
The Deutsch Stichelhaar is a balanced, calm, and courageous dog, characteristics frequently highlighted by the breed club secretary with the German word "Ruhe" (calm). It has a strong prey drive and is fearless when working in dense cover or hunting wild boar. At the same time, it has a "laid-back" personality at home and is described as relatively easy to train for an experienced handler. It can be a good guard dog.
Activity & Exercise
- Energy Level
- High
- Recommended Daily Exercise
- 90 minutes
Grooming & Care
- Grooming Needs
- Moderate
- Shedding
- Moderate
- Bathing Frequency
- Every 4–6 weeks
Health
- Common Health Issues
- Alopecia (non-seasonal hair loss)
- Dental problems (incomplete dentition in the hairless variety due to genetic linkage)
- Gun-shyness (in some lines)
- Hip dysplasia
- Recommended Health Tests
- Dermatological examination
- Mandatory orthopedic evaluation
- Temperament assessment
Compatibility
- With Children
- Good
- With Other Dogs
- Good
- For First-Time Owners
- Not recommended
