Bred for sporting and hunting, the German Wirehaired Pointer originated in Germany during the 1800s. These game dogs were said to have developed from many other breeds such as crosses between other Pointers, Poodles, Polish Water Dogs, Foxhounds and more. The main reason so many breeds were used in the creation of the German Wirehaired Pointer is because enthusiasts at that time wanted to create a strong, versatile dog who could withstand adverse climates and traverse difficult terrain. He was a sought after hunting partner because he was as comfortable on land as he was in the water. He arrived in the United States in the 1920s and joined the American Kennel Club roster of dogs in 1959 in the sporting dog category. The Labrador Retriever is sporting breed as well, designed for the purpose of retrieving prey from water. He is said to have originated in Canada, most likely Newfoundland, during the 16th century and is thought to have originated from another large breed dog known as the Newfoundland. The American Kennel Club recognised the Labrador Retriever in 1917 and he is currently the most favored dog in the United States according to AKC records. Not much information is currently documented about the German Wirehaired Lab hybrid. However, based on parental history it is speculated that this hybrid was designed for the purpose of hunting, tracking and retrieving game from water, as well as for companionship. They have likely been developed within the last 15 years (early to mid-2000s) and are currently only registered with the Dog Registry of America.
