A modern Slovak working gundog
The Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer is recorded by the FCI as Slovensky Hrubosrsty Stavac. Its British breed club describes development after the Second World War, when changes in hunting and farming created a need for a versatile dog particularly useful after the shot: searching, following scent and retrieving rather than simply ranging far ahead.
The club identifies Weimaraner, German Wirehaired Pointer and Cesky Fousek foundations in the breeding programme. Those connections explain elements of the working type without making the modern breed a casual cross or merely a rough-coated Weimaraner. This profile follows the separate Slovak FCI entry and does not depend on disputed recognition-year summaries.
Grey-brown hair and facial furnishings
A strong but moderate body carries harsh straight hair over a fine underlayer. Softer hair forms the moustache, with more marked hair above the eyes. The standard's grey is a brown-shaded description, sometimes accompanied by white markings or speckling. The portrait makes the face visible without claiming to assess the dog's whole conformation.
Cooperation needs learning
The working ideal includes cooperation across field, woodland and water. An ideal is not a guarantee of effortless training or dependable recall. Suitable activity, rest and rewarding attention help owners respond to the background, while individual experience should guide introductions to visitors, other animals and unfamiliar grooming procedures.
Care around the rough jacket
Check facial furnishings, feet, ears and places beneath equipment after outdoor activity, removing loose material gently. Ask a groomer about tools appropriate to the actual texture and a manageable routine. Persistent irritation, painful knots or a changed response to touch needs assessment rather than stronger pulling to produce a particular outline.
Plan comfortable care
Our gentle coat-care guide and first grooming appointment guide help you prepare questions about handling, maintenance and a suitable service. This breed profile is independent of named businesses.
Photograph and sources
The photograph illustrates one Slovakian Wirehaired Pointer. See the linked credit for its creator, source and reusable licence. It does not establish the dog's health, age or temperament.
Read the FCI catalogue entry and FCI breed standard. General care and handling guidance is available from PDSA and Dogs Trust.
Additional primary reading: Slovakian Rough Haired Pointer Club breed history.