Wirehaired Pointing Griffons are active, people-oriented dogs with a reputation for being healthy and resilient. Still, like any breed, they have a few inherited conditions that future owners should understand. 

Learning about the most common health concerns can help you spot early changes, ask the right questions when choosing a breeder, and feel confident about supporting your dog throughout their life.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

PRA is an inherited eye disease where the retina slowly loses function over time. Early on, dogs may hesitate in the dark or seem unsure in dim lighting; later, vision loss becomes more noticeable. Because the condition progresses gradually, many dogs adjust remarkably well as long as their surroundings stay familiar and predictable.

Veterinarians diagnose PRA through an eye exam or, in some cases, genetic testing. While there’s no treatment to stop the disease, responsible breeding practices have helped reduce the risk in many lines. If you’re getting a puppy, it’s worth asking whether both parents were tested for PRA.

Entropion

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, allowing eyelashes to rub against the surface of the eye. This can cause irritation, tearing, squinting, or, in more advanced cases, corneal ulcers. Some puppies show signs early, while others develop issues as their face shape matures. Most often, it’s hereditary, but it can also result from:

• Chronic eye inflammation
• Scarring
• Pain that causes squinting

Most dogs eventually need a minor surgery to correct the eyelid position, and many recover fully afterward. Because entropion tends to run in families, reputable breeders pay close attention to whether it has appeared in their lines.

Epilepsy

Epilepsy is one of the most common causes of repeated seizures in dogs, and it can appear in Wirehaired Pointing Griffons as well. It often appears in young to middle-aged dogs and can be frightening to witness. Seizures often happen without warning and may look like sudden collapse, stiffening, paddling, or drooling.  

Seizures occur due to abnormal electrical activity in the brain. While idiopathic epilepsy (meaning no identifiable cause—often inherited) is common, vets rule out other causes such as:

• Low blood sugar
• Toxin exposure
• Brain tumors
• Liver disease

To diagnose epilepsy, veterinarians usually rule out other possible causes with bloodwork or imaging. Dogs with confirmed epilepsy are often managed with lifelong medication (long-term anticonvulsant medications), and many go on to live normal, active lives. Keeping a simple “seizure journal” can help your vet adjust treatment over time.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones to regulate metabolism. This endocrine disorder is one of the more common internal conditions seen in middle-aged dogs.

Common symptoms of hypothyroidism in dogs

• Hair loss or coat thinning
• Weight gain without increased appetite
• Lethargy or decreased activity
• Cold intolerance
• Skin infections or flaky skin
• Behavioral changes (anxiety, irritability)

Diagnosis requires a specific blood test. Treatment involves daily thyroid hormone replacement, which most dogs tolerate extremely well. With proper medication, dogs usually return to normal energy levels and quality of life.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia is a joint condition seen in many medium and large breeds, including the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon. It develops when the hip joint forms too loosely, allowing the ball and socket to grind against each other instead of fitting smoothly. Over time, this abnormal movement causes inflammation, discomfort, and gradual joint damage.

Although genetics play the biggest role, several factors can increase the risk or worsen the condition, including:

• Rapid growth during puppyhood
• Excess body weight
• High-impact exercise too early
• Improper nutrition in developing puppies

Diagnosis usually involves X-rays, and treatment depends on the severity. It can range from weight management and joint supplements to physical therapy or surgery. 

Stem Cell Therapy for Canine Osteoarthritis

Because hip dysplasia causes chronic joint wear, it is one of the leading causes of osteoarthritis in dogs. OA is a progressive condition that affects mobility, comfort, and quality of life, especially in active, working breeds like the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon.

At Gallant, we’re currently studying how stem cell therapy may help support joint health in dogs with osteoarthritis by exploring ways to ease inflammation and protect joint structures. You can read more about this research here.