Wirehaired Pointing Griffon?

I think this is a pretty rare breed. Try the FAQs in this site for more information: [linkhttp://awpga.com/fr_wirehaired_pointing_griffons.htm]http://awpga.com/fr_wirehaired_pointing_griffons.htm[/link] . Some other "hypoallergenic" breeds (quotation marks because you never really know until you spend time with the dog) include the Shih Tzu, Maltese, Lhasa Apso, Bedlington Terrier, Bichon Frise, Airedale Terrier, Portugese Water Dog, Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier and the Schanauzers.

Most of these dogs come from working/hunting breeders.  They will be as different from your current poodle (with respect to trainability, ease of living in a home situation, etc.) as fruits are to vegetables.  I have friend with one who is now 10 and has just started to slow down and be easier to live with.   

The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon is one of my favortie breeds, and I hope for it to be my next dog.

It is a true hunting breed- that loves to be in the field. Though they have a lot of drive, they aren't as intense as Vislas, Weimeraner's or GSP's. They have a softness to their temperament and most have a fairly goofy streak, they tend not to take themselves too seriously, unlike some of the other birddog breeds.

Though they are a wiry coated dog- there is a variation of coat within the breed, so if a true wire coat is important to you, make sure to work with a breeder that selects for this in their breeding stock. Lately soft coats have been cropping up.

If the main thing you are looking for in your next dog is to be low shedding/hypoallergenic- I would suggest you stick with a breed that you know already works for you. The Griffon's coat might not be as easy on your allergies as a poodles. Plus, a Griffon truly needs a home that will give it a job.

Lindsey, out of curiosity, how do you feel the WPG compares to say, a Spinone in temperament and personality? 

Funny you should ask that, as Spinone's are my next favorite breed after the Griffons!! I haven't met as many Spinone's as Griffons, so I don't feel I know as much about them. As far as my research has shown-  they tend to be more mellow than Griff's with a less intense need to hunt. They are a much larger dog- about double the size. Griffon's seem to be an 'everyone' dog, meaning they love all people, while I've noticed Spinone's can be cool towards strangers- but not aggressive. Spinone's love to please- but seem to have a bit of a 'what's in it for me' outlook to training, so positive reinforcement goes a long way.

Both are sensitive breeds- that shut down quickly if treated too harshly. I just love the wirey coats and soulful eyes these breeds have. I'd have one right (or one of each!! lol!) now if not for lack of room for another dog.