Is the German Wirehaired Pointer or the Large Munsterlander better for families with children?

Both the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Large Munsterlander are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.

Which sheds more, the German Wirehaired Pointer or the Large Munsterlander?

The Large Munsterlander sheds more than the German Wirehaired Pointer. If shedding is a concern, the German Wirehaired Pointer is the lower-maintenance choice.

Which is easier to train, the German Wirehaired Pointer or the Large Munsterlander?

Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.

Is German Wirehaired Pointer or Large Munsterlander bigger?

German Wirehaired Pointer and Large Munsterlander are a similar size (Large).

Which barks more, German Wirehaired Pointer or Large Munsterlander?

Both bark a similar amount (medium).

Which is better for apartment living, German Wirehaired Pointer or Large Munsterlander?

For apartment or flat living, German Wirehaired Pointer and Large Munsterlander are an even match — either can work well.

German Wirehaired Pointer vs Large Munsterlander: Compared

German Wirehaired Pointer vs Large Munsterlander: full comparison

Trait	German Wirehaired Pointer	Large Munsterlander
Size	Large	Large
Energy level	Very High	Very High
Trainability	High	High
Friendliness	Medium	High
Good with children	High	High
Grooming needs	Medium	Medium
Shedding	Low	Medium
Barking	Medium	Medium
Protectiveness	Medium	Medium
Adaptability	Medium	Medium
Typical lifespan	12 years	12 years
Hypoallergenic	No	No

Size and living space

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a large dog that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. By comparison, the Large Munsterlander is a large dog that is happiest with space indoors and regular access to a yard. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The German Wirehaired Pointer is a true athlete that needs intense daily exercise and a job to do, or it will get restless. The Large Munsterlander is a true athlete that needs intense daily exercise and a job to do, or it will get restless. Their exercise needs are broadly the same, so this is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

Grooming and shedding

The German Wirehaired Pointer needs consistent brushing to keep the coat healthy and sheds very little. The Large Munsterlander needs consistent brushing to keep the coat healthy and sheds a moderate amount, with heavier seasonal moults. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The German Wirehaired Pointer takes to training fast and works willingly, barks a fair amount, usually for a reason and is reliably good with children and a solid family choice. The Large Munsterlander takes to training fast and works willingly, barks a fair amount, usually for a reason and is reliably good with children and a solid family choice. On guarding instinct, German Wirehaired Pointer will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive, whereas Large Munsterlander will let you know someone is at the door without being aggressive.

Which is better for…

For apartment or flat living, German Wirehaired Pointer and Large Munsterlander are an even match — either can work well.
For families with young children, Large Munsterlander has the edge, being the more naturally child-friendly and sociable of the two.
For first-time dog owners, German Wirehaired Pointer and Large Munsterlander are an even match — either can work well.
For being left alone during the workday, German Wirehaired Pointer and Large Munsterlander are an even match — either can work well.
For allergy sufferers, German Wirehaired Pointer has the edge, as it sheds less dander around the home.

Which should you choose?

Choose the German Wirehaired Pointer if you want less shedding around the home.

Choose the Large Munsterlander if you want a more outgoing, sociable dog.

Not sure which breed is right for you?

Take the free DoggyQ quiz and get a personalised match from 300+ breeds based on your lifestyle, home and preferences — in about 2 minutes.

Find your perfect match

Frequently asked questions

Is the German Wirehaired Pointer or the Large Munsterlander better for families with children?: Both the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Large Munsterlander are considered good with children when properly socialised and supervised.
Which sheds more, the German Wirehaired Pointer or the Large Munsterlander?: The Large Munsterlander sheds more than the German Wirehaired Pointer. If shedding is a concern, the German Wirehaired Pointer is the lower-maintenance choice.
Which is easier to train, the German Wirehaired Pointer or the Large Munsterlander?: Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is German Wirehaired Pointer or Large Munsterlander bigger?: German Wirehaired Pointer and Large Munsterlander are a similar size (Large).
Which barks more, German Wirehaired Pointer or Large Munsterlander?: Both bark a similar amount (medium).
Which is better for apartment living, German Wirehaired Pointer or Large Munsterlander?: For apartment or flat living, German Wirehaired Pointer and Large Munsterlander are an even match — either can work well.

German Wirehaired Pointer vs Large Munsterlander