If you’re on the hunt for quality hunting dogs for sale in Colorado, chances are you’ve got your eye on some of the best breeds out there: German pointers, Wirehaired Pointing Griffons (GWPs), or maybe a started hunting dog that’s already had some time in the field. But how do you know you’re making the right choice? Where should you look? What’s a fair price?

Understanding German Hunting Pointers: What Makes Them So Special?

When it comes to hunting dogs, not all breeds are created equal. German pointers are well-known for their stamina, sharp noses, and trainability—traits that make them outstanding partners whether you’re chasing upland birds or working tough terrain. But then there’s the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, often just called the GWP, which adds a rugged coat and water-loving nature to the mix.

A hunting dog needs to have more than just the right look. “You want a dog that can think, adapt, and stick with you through all kinds of weather and terrain,” says Jake Miller, a trainer from Colorado who’s worked with both German pointers and Griffons for over 15 years. “That’s where the German pointer really shines—intelligence, drive, and a heart that won’t quit.”

The main difference? German pointers—like the German Shorthaired Pointer or Wirehaired Pointer—are generally bred for a variety of hunting tasks including pointing, retrieving, and tracking. Wirehaired Pointing Griffons, on the other hand, bring a thick, wiry coat that’s perfect for cold and wet conditions, plus a slightly different hunting style that some hunters prefer for waterfowl or rough brush.

Where to Find Quality Hunting Dogs for Sale in Colorado

Colorado’s hunting culture is rich, and so is its selection of breeders and trainers. If you’re searching for hunting dogs for sale in Colorado, the good news is you have many solid options—but you’ve got to know where to look and what to ask.

A lot of people overlook the importance of the breeder’s background. “I’ve seen people buy a puppy just because it looks cute, but then realize the dog doesn’t have the drive or health to keep up in the field,” explains Sarah Lopez, a veteran hunter and breeder of Wirehaired Pointing Griffons. “When it comes to German pointers or Griffons, the breeder’s knowledge and honesty matter more than anything.”

Some breeders focus purely on show qualities, which might not always translate to hunting performance. Look for those who are involved in hunting themselves and who test their dogs in the field. That’s where you’ll find pups with the right instincts.

You’ll find reputable Wirehaired Pointing Griffon breeders across Colorado who prioritize health and hunting lineage. These breeders will have health clearances, be open to visits, and offer transparency about how their dogs are raised and trained. If a breeder can’t answer questions about hunting ability or doesn’t provide health guarantees, that’s usually a red flag.

Breed clubs like the American Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Association (AWPGA) can be a good place to start, along with hunting forums and local field trials. These communities often share recommendations for trustworthy breeders and trainers.

German Pointer vs. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon Breeders: What to Know

If you’re stuck between choosing a German pointer or a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, it helps to understand their unique traits and what each breeder offers. German pointers are versatile, excelling in a variety of hunting styles from upland birds to big game tracking. GWPs, on the other hand, have that weatherproof coat that gives them an edge in colder or wetter environments, like marshes or icy lakes.

When scouting Wirehaired Pointing Griffon breeders, look for people who are dedicated to maintaining the breed’s hunting tradition. According to Sarah, “Good Griffon breeders don’t just sell puppies, they’re raising hunting dogs with the right temperament and physical traits that survive and thrive in the field.”

German pointer breeders often focus on a broader range of hunting skills, with dogs trained to handle gunfire, work off-leash, and cover large territories efficiently. They’ll usually be involved in NAVHDA (North American Versatile Hunting Dog Association) or local hunt clubs like the Colorado Gun Dog Club, which helps keep their dogs sharp and ready.

Considering Started German Pointers

If raising a puppy from scratch isn’t your thing, started German pointers or GWPs can be a smart alternative. These dogs come with some basic field experience, so you’re not starting completely from zero.

“Started dogs save a lot of time and hassle,” says Jake. “You get a dog that knows the basics—pointing, steady to wing and shot, and retrieving. From there, it’s about building on what’s already there.”

Started dogs are often available through trainers who work with young dogs in field conditions, or through rescue groups specializing in retrievers and pointers. Websites like Gun Dog Central or Birds Dogs for Sale list started dogs for sale in Colorado and beyond.

Price Ranges: What to Expect When Buying German Hunting Pointers

Price is always a factor, but with hunting dogs, it’s important to think beyond the sticker price. German hunting pointers and Wirehaired Pointing Griffons typically range from $1,000 to $3,000 depending on pedigree, training level, and breeder reputation. Puppies from top hunting lines or with exceptional health clearances will be on the higher end. Started dogs often cost more due to the training involved, sometimes $3,000 and up.

“You’re not just paying for the dog—you’re paying for decades of careful breeding, health testing, and early training,” notes Sarah. “Cheap dogs can end up costing more if they don’t have the drive or soundness you need.”

Keep in mind, there are ongoing costs like gear, vaccinations, regular vet visits, and additional training that factor into your overall budget.

What to Look for When Selecting a GWP Puppy

If you’re leaning toward a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon puppy, there are a few things to keep an eye on during selection. Temperament is key—a good hunting pup is curious, alert, but also calm enough to focus during training.

Coat quality matters too. That wiry, weather-resistant fur is what makes the GWP stand out in harsh conditions, so you want to see puppies with dense, rough coats rather than soft or sparse fur. Energy levels should be balanced—not too wild but definitely eager to play and explore.

Some breeders will give you an early idea of a pup’s hunting potential based on lineage and early behavior. “You can tell a lot by how a puppy moves and responds to sounds,” says Jake. “A pup that freezes or points to moving objects early on is showing strong hunting instincts.”

Preparing for Your New Hunting Companion

Once you bring your German pointer or Wirehaired Pointing Griffon home, the real adventure begins. Essential gear includes a sturdy collar, a reliable training whistle, water-resistant boots for you, and maybe a GPS tracker for the dog.

Early socialization is crucial—introduce your pup to different environments, noises, and people gradually. Training should start with basic obedience but quickly move into hunting-specific commands like “steady,” “mark,” and “retrieve.” Mistakes happen, but patience and consistency go a long way.

Real Talk: What Buyers Say About German Hunting Pointers

“I wasn’t sure if I wanted a puppy or a started dog, but after some research, I went with a started German Wirehaired Pointer,” says Tim, a hunter from Denver. “It was a good choice for me—I got a dog that was ready to work but still young enough to train my way.”

Maria, a GWP puppy buyer, shares, “Our breeder was amazing, showed us all the health clearances, and even invited us to see the parents working in the field. It gave me a lot of confidence.”

These voices reflect what many buyers experience—a mixture of excitement, questions, and the need to trust the breeder or trainer.

Final Thoughts

Finding the perfect hunting dogs for sale in Colorado isn’t just about scrolling through listings or picking the cheapest option. It’s about understanding the breeds, knowing what to ask, and taking time to find breeders and started dogs with solid reputations. German pointers and Wirehaired Pointing Griffons each bring unique skills to the field, so the best choice depends on your hunting style and environment.

Keep health, temperament, and hunting ability front and center in your search. With patience and research, you’ll be set up for years of successful hunts and a strong bond with your four-legged partner.

Comparative Table: German Pointer vs. Wirehaired Pointing Griffon

Trait	German Pointer (GSP/GWP)	Wirehaired Pointing Griffon
Coat	Short (GSP) or wiry (GWP), weather-resistant	Dense, wiry, weatherproof
Hunting Style	Versatile – upland birds, waterfowl, tracking	Focused on waterfowl and rough terrain
Temperament	Intelligent, eager, trainable	Independent, driven but affectionate
Adaptability to Terrain	Open fields to dense woods	Excellent in marshes, wetlands, and brush
Trainability	Highly trainable, responsive	Trainable but can be more stubborn
Price Range (Puppies)	$1,000 – $3,000	$1,200 – $3,200

This guide aims to help you feel confident and informed when exploring hunting dogs for sale in Colorado, whether you’re after a German pointer, a Wirehaired Pointing Griffon, or a started dog ready to hit the field.