Schipperke vs Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Comprehensive comparison of two popular breeds to help you decide which one might be the better fit for your lifestyle and preferences.
Schipperke
Non-Sporting Group
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Sporting Group
Quick Comparison
Size
Lifespan
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Table of Contents
Breed Overview
Schipperke Overview
Schipperkes are small, sturdy dogs with distinctive black coats and fox-like faces. Their well-muscled bodies support an alert, confident stance, while their thick double coat forms a characteristic ruff, cape, and culottes. Standing 11-13 inches tall, these agile dogs move with purpose and grace, displaying their heritage as both watchdogs and ratters through their keen expression and quick movements.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Overview
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons showcase a distinctive harsh double coat and noble bearing. Their medium-sized, athletic frame supports their versatile hunting abilities. Distinguished by a characteristic steel gray coat with brown markings, these dogs possess a square-built body, intelligent expression, and prominent eyebrows that give them an alert, attentive appearance.
Key Differences
- Energy Level: Schipperkes are less energetic than Wirehaired Pointing Griffons, requiring less daily exercise.
- Grooming: Schipperkes require less grooming attention compared to Wirehaired Pointing Griffons.
- Temperament: While both breeds are intelligent, Schipperkes tend to be more reserved with strangers than Wirehaired Pointing Griffons.
- Trainability: Wirehaired Pointing Griffons may be slightly easier to train due to their Wirehaired Pointing Griffon's higher intelligence ranking.
- Living Situation: Schipperkes adapt better to apartment living, while Wirehaired Pointing Griffons typically prefer homes with more space.
Detailed Comparison
Below is a comprehensive side-by-side comparison of the Schipperke and Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, covering everything from physical characteristics to care requirements.
Basic Information
| Feature | Schipperke | Wirehaired Pointing Griffon |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Toy | Medium |
| Life Expectancy | 12-14 years | 12-15 years |
| Country of Origin | Unknown | Unknown |
| Breed Group | Non-Sporting Group | Sporting Group |
Physical Characteristics
| Feature | Schipperke | Wirehaired Pointing Griffon |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 10-13 inches 25-33 cm | 20-24 inches 51-61 cm |
| Weight | 10-16 lbs 5-7 kg | 35-70 lbs 16-32 kg |
| Coat Type | Short, dense coat | Short, dense coat |
| Coat Length | Short | Short |
| Shedding | Seasonal | Seasonal |
Temperament & Behavior
| Feature | Schipperke | Wirehaired Pointing Griffon |
|---|---|---|
| Temperament | Confident, Alert, Curious | Friendly, Devoted, Trainable |
| Energy Level | | |
| Intelligence | | |
Compatibility
| Feature | Schipperke | Wirehaired Pointing Griffon |
|---|---|---|
| Good with Children | | |
| Good with Other Dogs | | |
| Apartment Friendly | | |
Temperament & Personality
Schipperke Temperament
The Schipperke is known for being confident, alert, curious, making them better suited for homes without young children. Their moderate intelligence means they can be trained with consistent effort. They tend to be reserved with strangers, which makes them good watchdogs. With their high energy levels, they need plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Temperament
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is characterized by being friendly, devoted, trainable, which makes them great companions for families. With their moderate intelligence, they can learn with consistent training methods. They generally welcome strangers, making them sociable companions rather than protective guardians. Their high energy requires substantial daily exercise and activities to keep them physically and mentally satisfied.
Temperament Comparison
When comparing the Schipperke and Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, there are notable differences in their temperaments that potential owners should consider:
Sociability with Strangers
Good with Children
Side-by-Side Trait Ratings
GOOD WITH YOUNG CHILDREN
Schipperke
Rating: 3/5
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Rating: 5/5
GOOD WITH OTHER DOGS
Schipperke
Rating: 3/5
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Rating: 3/5
ENERGY LEVEL
Schipperke
Rating: 4/5
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Rating: 5/5
TRAINABILITY / INTELLIGENCE
Schipperke
Rating: 2/5
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Rating: 2/5
GROOMING NEEDS
Schipperke
Rating: 3/5
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Rating: 3/5
Care & Maintenance
Schipperke Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Schipperkes require significant daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This can include walks, play sessions, and more vigorous activities like running, swimming, or fetch.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Schipperkes require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to prevent matting and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be beneficial.
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Wirehaired Pointing Griffons need substantial daily exercise, including at least 60-90 minutes of physical activity. This should include walks, play sessions, and more intense activities like running, swimming, or agility training.
Grooming Requirements
With their short, dense coat coat, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons require moderate grooming. This includes regular brushing to maintain coat health and reduce shedding. Occasional professional grooming may be helpful.
Health & Lifespan
Schipperke Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Patellar Luxation
- MPS IIIB
- Thyroid Issues
- Eye Problems
- Hip Issues
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Health Profile
Common Health Issues:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Ear Infections
- Eye Problems
- Elbow Dysplasia
- Thyroid Issues
Pros & Cons
Schipperke
Pros
- Excellent watchdog
- Compact size
- Low grooming needs
- Long lifespan
Cons
- Can be stubborn
- Barks frequently
- Strong prey drive
- Independent nature
Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Pros
- Excellent hunting companion
- Devoted family dog
- Highly trainable
- Good with children
Cons
- High exercise needs
- Regular grooming required
- Can be stubborn
- Strong prey drive
Ready to Find Your Perfect Match?
Now that you've compared the Schipperke and Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, explore more breeds or use our breed matching tool to find the perfect dog for your lifestyle.