The German Wirehaired Pointer (GWP), often recognized for its prowess in upland bird hunting, can also be a surprisingly capable waterfowl retriever. This adaptability, coupled with its distinctive wiry coat and keen intelligence, makes it a unique and valuable companion for hunters seeking versatility in their canine partners.
German Wirehaired Pointer…in the Duck Blind?
During a late-season mallard hunt, the author found himself with a successful shoot, but the true joy came from observing his German Wirehaired Pointer, Max, working the decoys. While most hunters might focus solely on the birds, the author’s passion extends to his dogs’ performance and development. Max, a younger GWP, was already proving his worth in upland cover as both a pointer and retriever. His inclusion in duck hunts, initially for enjoyment, became a necessity due to the aging of the author’s veteran Labrador, Rosy, and his older GWP, Maggie.
With Rosy nearing the end of her waterfowl career and Maggie slowing down in her advanced age, the author needed to cultivate replacements. Max was being groomed to take over Maggie’s upland duties, while a young female Lab, Kiska, was intended to understudy Rosy. However, Kiska developed an unexpected aversion to water. Lori, the author’s wife, proposed a brilliant solution: replace Kiska’s training with Max, leveraging his proven retrieving ability on upland birds and his demonstrated enthusiasm for water. This decision proved prescient, especially as their COVID-season duck hunting focused on Rosy and Max.
Shakespeare and Water Rug Dogs
The term “water-rug,” mentioned by Shakespeare in Macbeth, offers a fascinating historical link to water dogs. While the exact breed Shakespeare referred to remains debated, the consensus points to the English Water Spaniel. This breed, known for its versatility in waterfowl hunting as early as the 16th century, is now extinct. The author humorously applies the “water-rug” moniker to Max, his wet and wiry German Wirehaired Pointer emerging from the water, perfectly capturing the essence of a dog dedicated to retrieving in aquatic environments.
Dogs and Difficult Retrieves – How Does the German Wirehaired Pointer Fare?
Difficult retrieves, those involving challenging conditions like distance, obstructions, ice, or live birds, are a true test of a retriever’s skill. While the author initially reserved the toughest tasks for his experienced Labrador, Rosy, Max’s development necessitated a shift. During a hunt for green-winged teal, a notoriously fast and evasive duck, Max was given the opportunity to retrieve a wounded bird that had immediately sought refuge in the reeds.
The teal’s ability to dive and change direction underwater presents a significant challenge for retrievers. Unlike some Labs that could dive and pursue underwater, Max relied on a combination of instinct and visual cues. Despite the teal’s evasive maneuvers, Max, guided by the author’s arm signals and his own determination, successfully located and retrieved the bird. This successful retrieve demonstrated Max’s growing capability as a waterfowl dog, signaling his readiness to eventually take over from the aging Rosy.
Thinking Outside the Proverbial Duck Dog Box
The reliance on familiar breeds like the Labrador Retriever for waterfowl hunting often overshadows the capabilities of other breeds. While Labs, Golden Retrievers, and Chesapeake Bay Retrievers are popular choices, many other breeds, including the German Wirehaired Pointer, possess the necessary skills and drive for duck hunting. Historically, breeds like the English Water Spaniel were renowned waterfowl dogs. Today, breeds such as the American and Irish Water Spaniels, Flat-Coated Retrievers, and German Wirehaired Pointers offer unique qualities, often with coats well-suited for water retrieves – truly “water-rugs.” While these breeds may not always match the elite performance of the top retrievers in every aspect, they provide excellent companionship and successfully accomplish the task of retrieving waterfowl. The author encourages hunters to consider the diverse possibilities beyond the conventional “duck dog” and to appreciate the versatile nature of breeds like the German Wirehaired Pointer.
Don Thomas, the author, is a seasoned outdoorsman with decades of experience in hunting and fishing. His work, including his latest book “On The Wing,” reflects his extensive knowledge of outdoor pursuits, wildlife biology, habitat, and, notably, hunting dogs.
