Breed History:

The German Roughhaired Pointer, also known as the Deutsch Stichelhaar, is one of the oldest rough-coated pointing breeds developed in Germany. Its roots trace back to medieval times, likely evolving from a combination of early German tracking dogs, hounds, and continental pointing breeds. It shares ancestry with the German Shorthaired Pointer but was bred specifically for denser underbrush, colder climates, and greater independence in the hunt.

The Stichelhaar was refined in the 19th century in central and southern Germany, especially around the regions of Hesse and Thuringia, by hunters who wanted a wire-coated, hardy, versatile gundog. Though less popular than its shorthaired or wirehaired cousins, it remains a functional working breed in its homeland.

Size: Medium to Large

Life Expectancy: 12–14 years

Breed Appearance:

The German Roughhaired Pointer has a sturdy, rustic build, marked by its harsh, bristly coat, which lies close to the body and offers excellent protection in dense vegetation. Unlike the German Wirehaired Pointer’s shaggy look, the Stichelhaar’s coat is shorter, stiffer, and more upright, especially along the back and flanks.

It has a broad head, long, pendulous ears, and a thick mustache and beard. Coat colors are typically brown, brown roan, or with or without white markings. The tail is usually carried straight and may be docked where legal.

Breed Type – Versatile Gundog / Pointer:

This breed is a multipurpose hunting dog, capable of pointing, tracking, and retrieving on land and in water. It is known for its calm demeanour, strong work ethic, and ability to work independently from the hunter—trait favoured in dense European forests.

Outside the field, the breed tends to be reserved with strangers but loyal and composed with its family.

Training:

Trainable but independent, the Stichelhaar benefits from a patient, confident handler:

• Responds best to positive, consistent reinforcement

• Needs early socialization, especially with people and other animals

• Has a strong prey drive—recall must be a training priority

• May appear aloof or stubborn if not engaged mentally

• Learns best through field work, scent games, and purpose-driven routines

Health & Care:

A generally robust and healthy breed, but keep an eye out for:

• Hip dysplasia

• Ear infections due to floppy ears

• Bloat (gastric torsion) in deep-chested individuals

• Occasional eye or skin issues (rare)

Routine health checks, joint care, and proper nutrition help maintain longevity.

Living Conditions:

The breed thrives in working or active homes:

• Needs space to roam—not suited for apartment life

• Best for rural or suburban homes with access to nature

• Can live indoors but prefers daily outdoor engagement

• Bonds closely with its owner but may be guarded with visitors

• Tends to be calm indoors after adequate physical activity

Exercise:

High exercise needs:

• Requires at least 1.5–2 hours of physical activity daily

• Enjoys field work, tracking, hiking, or swimming

• Needs mental stimulation through training games or problem-solving tasks

• Without adequate activity, may become restless or aloof

Works best with owners who enjoy regular outdoor activity.

Grooming:

Low to moderate maintenance:

• Brush weekly to remove debris and loose hair

• Coat is self-cleaning, requiring minimal bathing

• Check and clean ears regularly

• Maintain nail trimming and dental hygiene

The coat sheds seasonally but is relatively low-maintenance.

Advantages:

• Hardy and weather-resistant—built for rugged work

• Versatile and reliable hunting companion

• Loyal, even-tempered, and calm in the home

• Low grooming needs

• Excellent scenting and tracking ability

• Less common breed with a rich heritage

Disadvantages:

• Can be aloof or cautious with strangers

• Needs high levels of exercise and stimulation

• Not well-suited to urban living or first-time owners

• Independent streak may require experienced handling

• Rare outside Germany—difficult to find breeders internationally

• Strong prey drive needs managing around small animals