The Stichelhaar is a medium-to-large-sized dog with a distinctive, wiry coat that gives it a somewhat unkempt, yet charming, appearance.

Medium to large, typically 23-28 inches at the shoulder.

55-70 pounds.

Harsh, wiry, and dense, approximately 1.5 inches long, with a dense undercoat.

Typically brown and white or black and white, often with ticking or roaning. Solid brown or black are also possible.

Strong and proportionate to the body, with a moderate stop.

Medium-sized, oval, and dark brown.

Medium-length, set high, and hanging close to the head.

Traditionally docked (where permitted), carried horizontally or slightly upward.

The Stichelhaar is known for its intelligence, eagerness to please, and strong work ethic. They are generally calm and even-tempered, but possess a high prey drive.

Highly intelligent and trainable.

Possesses a strong drive to work and please its handler.

Forms strong bonds with its family.

Exhibits a high prey drive, requiring careful management around smaller animals.

Makes a good watchdog due to its alertness and territorial nature.

Generally calm and balanced, but needs consistent training and socialization.

The Stichelhaar is best suited for active individuals or families with experience handling working dogs, who can provide the necessary training, exercise, and mental stimulation.

Weatherproof coat.

Can be prone to barking if under-stimulated.

The ideal owner for a Stichelhaar is an experienced dog handler who is active and enjoys spending time outdoors. This breed thrives in a home where they can be a part of the family and participate in activities that challenge them both physically and mentally.

The Stichelhaar's grooming needs are moderate, focusing on maintaining their wiry coat. They require a balanced diet and a living environment that accommodates their exercise needs.

Requires regular brushing (2-3 times per week) to prevent matting. Hand-stripping the coat a few times a year is recommended to maintain its texture.

Bathe only as needed, as frequent bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level.

Ideally suited to a home with a large, securely fenced yard. They can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are consistently met.

Moderate shedding; regular brushing helps minimize loose hair.

Stichelhaars are highly trainable, responding well to positive reinforcement methods, but their high energy levels require substantial daily exercise.

Stichelhaars are intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train. Positive reinforcement methods, such as treats and praise, work best. Early socialization and consistent training are crucial to ensure a well-behaved and balanced dog. Their strong hunting instincts may require specific training to manage.

This breed requires significant daily exercise to satisfy its physical and mental needs. Long walks, runs, hikes, and interactive play sessions are essential. They excel in dog sports like agility, obedience, and hunt tests. Mental stimulation, such as puzzle toys and scent work, is equally important.

Maintain a consistent training routine from puppyhood.

Use treats, praise, and positive interactions to motivate.

Expose your Stichelhaar to various people, dogs, and environments early in life.

Provide puzzle toys and engaging activities to prevent boredom.

Train a strong recall and consider using a long line in areas with wildlife.

Consider working with a professional dog trainer experienced with hunting breeds.

The Stichelhaar is generally a healthy breed, but like all dogs, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions.

A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and lameness.

A similar condition to hip dysplasia, but affecting the elbow joint.

A degenerative eye disease that can lead to blindness.

Due to their floppy ears, Stichelhaars can be prone to ear infections.

The Stichelhaar's origins trace back to the late 19th century in Germany. Breeders aimed to create a versatile, all-weather hunting dog by crossing various breeds, including the German Shorthaired Pointer, Pudelpointer, Griffon Korthals, and German Broken Coated Pointer. The goal was to develop a dog with a harsh, protective coat that could withstand harsh terrain and weather conditions. The breed was officially recognized in Germany around the turn of the 20th century, but remains relatively uncommon outside of its homeland. World Wars I and II significantly impacted the breed's numbers, but dedicated breeders have worked to maintain its integrity and working abilities.

Stichelhaars can be good with children if properly socialized and trained. However, their high energy levels may be overwhelming for very young children. Supervision is always recommended.

They can get along with other dogs, especially if raised with them. However, their strong prey drive may make them unsuitable for homes with small pets like cats or rabbits.

Stichelhaars need at least 1-2 hours of vigorous exercise per day, including walks, runs, and interactive play. They also benefit from mental stimulation.

No, the Stichelhaar is not hypoallergenic. They have a wiry coat that sheds moderately.

Finding a Stichelhaar breeder can be challenging due to the breed's rarity. Contacting breed clubs in Germany or other European countries is the best starting point. Be prepared to be placed on a waiting list.

Hand-stripping is a grooming technique used on wire-haired breeds like the Stichelhaar. It involves removing dead hair by hand or with a stripping knife to maintain the coat's texture and promote healthy growth.

Like many breeds, Stichelhaars can be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods without proper training and mental stimulation. Providing plenty of exercise and engaging activities can help prevent this.

Stichelhaars are not excessive barkers, but they will bark to alert their owners to something unusual. Proper training and socialization can help manage barking tendencies.

While a house with a yard is ideal, a Stichelhaar *can* adapt to apartment living *if* their significant exercise needs are diligently met. This requires a very committed owner.

The average lifespan of a Stichelhaar is 12-14 years.