French Origins of the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Griffon breed history has gotten complicated with all the competing national claims and historical revisions flying around. As someone who has researched the breed’s European origins extensively, I learned everything there is to know about how these dogs actually developed. Today, I will share it all with you.

Here’s what the simplified breed histories miss: the Griffon’s development involved contributions from multiple countries, but the French influence shaped what we recognize as the modern breed.

Eduard Korthals

Probably should have led with this section, honestly. The man most responsible for creating the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was Eduard Korthals, a Dutchman who did most of his breeding work in France starting in 1874. His systematic approach to developing a versatile gun dog produced the foundation of the modern breed.

French Breeding Program

That’s what makes French geography important—Korthals ran his program from estates in northern France, using local pointing breeds, griffon-type dogs, and imported stock to develop his ideal versatile hunting dog. The environment and game shaped selection priorities.

Breed Recognition

France recognized the breed in the 1880s, making it officially a French breed despite Korthals’ Dutch nationality. The French Griffon Club maintained breed standards and registrations, cementing the French connection.

Legacy

Modern Griffons trace to Korthals’ foundation dogs. His breeding records show careful selection for working ability, temperament, and that distinctive harsh coat. The breed he created continues to work fields and wetlands throughout the world.