Pekingese vs Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Which dog breed is right for you?

Pekingese

Size
7–14 lbs, 6–9 in
Lifespan
12–14 years
Exercise
Low
Grooming
High
Good with Kids
No
Good with Pets
Yes
Confident Loyal Regal Affectionate

Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Size
50–70 lbs, 20–24 in
Lifespan
12–15 years
Exercise
High
Grooming
Moderate
Good with Kids
Yes
Good with Pets
Yes
Loyal Eager-to-please Outgoing Trainable

About the Pekingese

The Pekingese is an ancient toy breed originating from the imperial palaces of China, where it was bred exclusively for royalty for over 2,000 years — commoners were forbidden from owning one. These compact dogs weigh up to 14 pounds and stand 6 to 9 inches tall, with a stocky, low-to-the-ground build and a characteristic rolling gait. Their luxurious double coat is long and flowing, coming in virtually every color and pattern, with a distinctive lion-like mane around the neck and shoulders.

Temperament & Personality

Pekingese carry themselves with a regal dignity and independence that reflects their imperial heritage — they are loyal and affectionate with their chosen person but rarely clingy or demanding. They can be aloof with strangers and are not naturally inclined to tolerate the rough play of young children. Pekingese are brave to the point of being fearless, and they will not hesitate to stand their ground against much larger dogs.

Pros

  • Low exercise requirements — content with short walks and indoor play
  • Loyal and devoted companion, especially for single-person households
  • Excellent watchdog with a surprisingly deep bark for its size
  • Calm indoor demeanor suits apartment and senior living well

Cons

  • Brachycephalic (flat-faced) structure causes breathing difficulties and heat sensitivity
  • Extensive coat grooming required — daily brushing to prevent painful matting
  • Stubborn and independent, making housetraining and obedience challenging
  • Prone to intervertebral disc disease, eye injuries, and skin fold infections

If a dignified, devoted lap companion appeals to you, find Pekingese available for adoption on Puplister.

About the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was developed in the late 19th century by Dutch breeder Eduard Karel Korthals, who meticulously crossed French and German griffons, setters, spaniels, and pointers to create what he considered the "supreme gundog." These medium-sized sporting dogs stand 20 to 24 inches tall and weigh 50 to 70 pounds, with a robust build that balances power with agility. Their distinctive coat features a harsh, wiry outer layer over a dense, water-resistant undercoat — typically in steel gray with brown markings, though roan, brown, and white and brown patterns also occur.

Temperament & Personality

Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are eager, devoted, and remarkably trainable — often called the "supreme gundog" not just for their versatile field skills but for their cooperative, people-focused temperament. They are gentle and patient with children, friendly with other dogs, and form strong bonds with every family member rather than fixating on a single person. Their enthusiasm for both work and play, combined with a gentle disposition, makes them outstanding all-around family companions for active households.

Pros

  • Versatile sporting dog — points, retrieves, and works in water and thick cover equally well
  • Low-shedding wiry coat suitable for allergy-conscious owners
  • Devoted and affectionate family dog with a gentle, trainable nature
  • Adaptable and eager to please — excels in multiple canine sports and disciplines

Cons

  • High exercise requirements — needs vigorous daily activity and mental stimulation
  • Coat requires regular hand-stripping or professional grooming to maintain texture
  • Can become anxious, clingy, or destructive without adequate exercise and companionship
  • Prone to hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, and ear infections

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is a rare treasure among sporting breeds — see if one is available on Puplister.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Pekingese and a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?
The Pekingese is 7–14 lbs, 6–9 in sized while the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is 50–70 lbs, 20–24 in sized. They differ in size (7–14 lbs, 6–9 in vs 50–70 lbs, 20–24 in), lifespan (12–14 years vs 12–15 years), and care requirements.
Which breed is better with kids, Pekingese or Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?
Pekingese is not typically good with kids. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is generally good with kids.
Which breed lives longer, Pekingese or Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?
The Pekingese has a lifespan of 12–14 years while the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon has a lifespan of 12–15 years.

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