Slovak Rough-haired Pointer
Also called Slovenský hrubosrstý stavač (ohar), Slovakian Wire-haired Pointer, Slovak Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
From Slovakia (then Czechoslovakia), developed after the Second World War.12
A friendly guide, not veterinary advice. For anything about your pet's health, ask your vet.
At a glance the quick version
Coat and looks how to spot one
rough (wire) coat with short undercoat
An athletic gundog with a harsh, straight topcoat about 4 cm long over a short, fine undercoat that thins out in summer. A softer moustache and beard and bushy brows give it a whiskery face.32
Personality what they are like
A willing, clever working dog that learns quickly and likes to cooperate with its handler. Alert and focused in the field, it is bred to be steady and easy to live with.32
Daily activity how busy a day looks
A true all-round hunting dog that searches, points and retrieves in fields, woods and water, so it needs plenty of daily exercise and work for its nose.32
The story where it all began
Koloman Slimák developed the breed after the Second World War, crossing German Wirehaired Pointers and Weimaraners with the Czech Fousek, and later adding Pudelpointer blood. Its breeders first tried to register it as a rough-haired Weimaraner, but it was accepted as a breed of its own, gaining full FCI recognition in 1982.21
Fun facts for the dinner table
- 1
Puppies and young dogs can have striking azure blue eyes that turn amber as they mature.2
- 2
Its short undercoat is largely shed in summer, making the coat lighter in warm weather.3
- 3
It must pass a working trial to become an FCI champion, since it is classed as a working gundog.1
- 4
The breed was first introduced to the United Kingdom in 1997.2
Recognised by the official bits
- FCI
- Standard no. 320, Group 7 (Pointing Dogs), Section 1.1 Continental pointers, braque type; definitive recognition 17 Feb 1982; subject to a working trial.1
- North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association (NAVHDA)
- Recognised.2
- UK
- First brought to the UK in 1997.2
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Slovak Rough-haired Pointer, and at what times?
Feed your adult Slovak Rough-haired Pointer at least two meals a day, ideally at the same times each morning and evening. Puppies need three to four smaller meals. Always follow the food label and your vet's advice for portion sizes.4
What should a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to its age and activity level is best. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Never give alcohol, yeast dough, or bones.5
How often should I bathe a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every 8 weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. Use a gentle dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect its harsh coat.6 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer need brushing?
Brush your Slovak Rough-haired Pointer weekly to remove loose hair and keep its wiry coat healthy. Furry Diary's plan recommends brushing every 7 days, which works well for this breed.6 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer's nails, and how often?
Trim nails about every 4 weeks, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part). If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demonstration.6 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer need?
This breed needs plenty of daily exercise and work for its nose, think long walks, runs, and playtime. Furry Diary's plan includes daily walks and play. It's a true hunting dog that thrives with active owners.32 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth at least two to three times a week with dog-safe toothpaste; daily is ideal. Check its floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt, and dry them gently. Never push anything into the ear canal.6 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer live?
Lifespan varies by individual and care. For a reliable estimate, ask your breeder or vet. With good nutrition and regular check-ups, many dogs live into their early teens.
Is a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer good with children and other pets?
Yes, this breed is steady and easy to live with, making it a good family dog when properly socialised. It's willing and cooperative, so it usually gets along well with children and other pets.32
Can a Slovak Rough-haired Pointer be left alone?
This varies by the individual dog and its training. Some may handle short periods alone, but they are people-oriented and prefer company. Ask your breeder for advice on your specific dog's needs.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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PudelpointerLike what we are building? Buy Archy a bone.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at support@furrydiary.app and we will fix it.
- SLOVENSKÝ HRUBOSRSTÝ STAVAČ (OHAR) (320) - FCI breed nomenclature fci.beused for recognition, group, working trial
- Slovak Rough-haired Pointer - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, history, recognition, colours, fun facts
- FCI Standard No. 320 - Wire-haired Slovakian Pointer fci.beused for height, coat, colour, temperament, use
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.