The Wirehaired Vizsla is a medium-sized, well-muscled dog with a distinctive golden rust, wiry coat and a noble, intelligent expression. Its build suggests both power and grace.

Dense, wiry, and close-lying, approximately 1-2 inches long, with a water-repellent undercoat.

Golden rust in various shades.

Lean and muscular, with a moderately wide skull and a pronounced stop.

Medium-sized, oval, and slightly darker than the coat color, conveying alertness and intelligence.

Set at medium height, hanging close to the cheeks, and ending in a rounded 'V'.

Traditionally docked to about two-thirds of its original length in countries where permitted; otherwise, carried horizontally or slightly curved.

Males typically stand 23-25 inches at the shoulder, females 21.5-23 inches.

Males generally weigh 55-65 pounds, females 45-55 pounds.

The Wirehaired Vizsla is known for its affectionate, loyal, and energetic nature, making it a wonderful companion for active families. They are intelligent and eager to please, but also possess a sensitive streak.

Forms strong bonds with family members and thrives on human interaction.

Deeply devoted to their owners and protective of their home.

Possesses a high level of energy and requires regular exercise.

Highly trainable and quick to learn new commands.

Responds best to positive reinforcement training methods; harsh corrections can be detrimental.

Generally good with children and other pets when properly socialized.

Makes a good watchdog, but is not overly aggressive.

The Wirehaired Vizsla is best suited for active individuals or families who can provide ample exercise, training, and companionship. They thrive in environments where they are included in daily activities.

Relatively healthy breed.

Not ideal for inactive or first-time dog owners.

The ideal owner for a Wirehaired Vizsla is an active individual or family who enjoys spending time outdoors and is committed to providing consistent training, socialization, and plenty of exercise. They thrive in a loving home where they are considered a part of the family.

The Wirehaired Vizsla's grooming needs are moderate, focusing on maintaining their wiry coat. They require a balanced diet and a living environment that accommodates their energetic nature.

Brush their coat weekly with a stiff bristle brush or a stripping comb to remove dead hair and maintain its texture. Occasional bathing is needed.

Hand-stripping the coat a few times a year helps maintain its proper texture and appearance (a professional groomer can assist with this).

Trim nails regularly, usually every few weeks, to prevent overgrowth and discomfort.

Check and clean their ears weekly to prevent infections.

Brush their teeth regularly with a dog-specific toothpaste to maintain dental health.

Feed a high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding to prevent obesity.

Ideally suited to homes with a securely fenced yard where they can run and play. They can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are consistently met.

Wirehaired Vizslas are highly trainable due to their intelligence and eagerness to please, but they require consistent, positive reinforcement. They need substantial daily exercise to satisfy their energetic nature.

Wirehaired Vizslas respond exceptionally well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as praise, treats, and play. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial to ensure a well-behaved and well-adjusted dog. Their intelligence means they can learn complex tasks and commands, making them suitable for various canine sports and activities. Consistency and patience are key.

This breed requires a significant amount of daily exercise, ideally at least an hour or two of vigorous activity. This can include long walks, running, hiking, swimming, and interactive games like fetch. Mental stimulation is equally important; puzzle toys, training sessions, and scent work can help keep them engaged and prevent boredom.

Utilize positive reinforcement methods for best results.

Expose your Wirehaired Vizsla to various people, dogs, and environments from a young age.

Maintain a consistent training routine to reinforce good behavior.

Provide plenty of mental challenges to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors.

If safe and legal, allow them time to run and explore off-leash in secure areas.

Never use harsh training methods, as this can damage their sensitive nature.

Wirehaired Vizslas are generally a healthy breed, but like all breeds, they are prone to certain genetic health issues. Regular veterinary checkups and preventative care are essential.

A malformation of the hip joint that can lead to arthritis and lameness.

A developmental condition affecting the elbow joint, potentially causing pain and lameness.

Conditions like progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) and cataracts can occur.

An underactive thyroid gland can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and skin problems.

A neurological disorder that can cause seizures.

The Wirehaired Vizsla was developed in Hungary in the 1930s, primarily by hunters who desired a dog with the Vizsla's hunting prowess but with a coat that could withstand harsh weather and rough terrain. This was achieved by crossing Vizslas with German Wirehaired Pointers, and potentially other breeds like the Pudelpointer and Irish Setter. The breed was officially recognized by the Hungarian Kennel Club in the 1960s. World War II significantly impacted the breed's numbers, but dedicated breeders worked to restore the population. The Wirehaired Vizsla was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2014.

Yes, Wirehaired Vizslas are generally excellent family dogs. They are affectionate, loyal, and good with children when properly socialized.

They need at least an hour or two of vigorous exercise daily, including running, hiking, or interactive games.

Their coat requires regular brushing and occasional hand-stripping, but it's not overly demanding compared to some other wirehaired breeds.

Yes, they are highly intelligent and eager to please, making them relatively easy to train with positive reinforcement methods.

They shed moderately, but regular brushing helps to minimize shedding.

Like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye disorders. Choosing a reputable breeder can reduce the risk.

They can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are consistently met, but they thrive best in homes with a yard.

The main difference is the coat. Vizslas have a short, smooth coat, while Wirehaired Vizslas have a dense, wiry coat that provides more protection from the elements.

They are generally good with other dogs when properly socialized from a young age.

Contact the Wirehaired Vizsla Club of America or the American Kennel Club for referrals to reputable breeders.