Korthals Griffon

The Korthals Griffon originated in the Netherlands, developed in 1873 by Eduard Karel Korthals, thus the name. It is believed that German and French Pointers, as well as different waterdogs and spaniel types were used in the hopes of developing the perfect gundog. Korthals continued his breeding program in Germany and after his death, breed enthusiasts continued his work in Germany, France and other parts of Europe. It was first exhibited in the USA as a Russian Setter.

The Korthals Griffon is registered with The Kennel Club under the Gundog group. This breed is recognised by other major registries and known as the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon in some countries specifically the USA and Canada. Today, it remains a rare breed outside Europe, including the UK and anyone interested to own one must be put on a waiting list.

The Korthals Griffon is a medium-sized robust dog that stands 50 to 60 centimetres at the withers and weighs 50 to 60 pounds. It is a handsome dog with a well-developed moustache and beard, giving off a determined and confident presence. It has a large yet not too broad head, long and square muzzle, brown nose that is always a bit convex at the tip, brown or dark yellow round eyes, bushy eyebrows, medium flat ears, and a strong jaw with a perfect scissor bite.

The Korthals Griffon boasts of a harsh and coarse outer coat and a dense undercoat. The accepted KC standard colours are steel grey with liver brown patches, solid liver brown, white and brown, liver brown with white hairs, and liver roan.

The Korthals Griffon only requires weekly brushing, which only becomes more frequent twice a year, during spring and autumn when they shed more heavily. However, it needs to be hand stripped at the groomer’s twice a year for grooming to be easier at home. It can be bathed as needed, when it is visibly dirty or when it starts to have that doggy smell.

Other basic grooming needs are nail trimming once a month, tooth brushing twice a week and regular inspection and cleaning of its ears.

The Korthals Griffon can be wary and shy around strangers. However, it is not usually aggressive and would rather keep its distance until it gets to know them. It has an affinity with children of all ages and is usually gentle and kind to them. However, adult supervision is needed to avoid any accidents. It also gets along with other pets, even cats especially when they are raised together but could chase the neighbours’ cats and small pets.

This breed is intelligent but can be challenging to house train. Early training and socialisation are important so the Korthals Griffon can grow up well rounded and obedient. Since it has heightened hunting abilities, trainings should involve challenging and interesting jobs so they will become truly happy. Being sensitive dogs, Korthals Griffons do not respond well to harsh trainings and would excel in a positive environment filled with treats and encouraging words.

• Senior and less active: up to 1,250 calories daily
• Typical adults: up to 1,400 calories daily
• Physically active/working dogs: up to 1,500 calories daily

Owning any type of dog can be costly because it has complex needs in comparison to other kinds of pets. The Korthals Griffon is a rare breed so getting one is not as easy as other breeds. The price of buying a well-bred Korthals Griffon puppy does not go less than £750 or £1,000. Getting a pet insurance is wise so you can have a safety net when your pet gets sick and needs to be confined. Monthly insurance fees cost £20 to £40 for a basic coverage.

Buying initial equipment like its crate, bed, bowls, leash, collar and others will cost around £200. Prepare to spend around £50 a month for food and treats. Another important expense that can add up to £1,000 in a year is veterinary care. It comprises preventive care (vaccination and flea/deworming medication), routine check-ups and neutering/spaying. You also have to include grooming expenses, prices of which depend on various factors such as your location and the service/s you avail of.

A rough estimate in caring for a Korthals Griffon is £110 a month.