What Does the Wirehaired Vizsla Look Like?
The Wirehaired Vizsla has a thick, wiry coat which can be golden, red, rusty, or sandy yellow. They have a long muzzle and long floppy ears, and their eyes are usually dark brown. Males weigh in at around 55-65 pounds and stand 23-25 inches tall at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller at 45-55 pounds or 21-24 inches.
What Is the Temperament of the Wirehaired Vizsla Like?
The Wirehaired Vizsla is an intelligent and loyal dog who loves spending time with their family. They are gentle and patient with children, but also have a strong hunting instinct and love to run. If you think you can keep up with their energy levels and playfulness, you’re in for years of fun.
Wirehaired Vizslas make excellent watchdogs, as they are always aware of what’s going on around them. However, they rarely bark, and they’re too friendly with strangers to land a guarding job!
How Easy to Train Are Wirehaired Vizslas?
These dogs are typically easy to train, as they’re eager to please their owners and are highly adaptable. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods such as treats and praise, but can also be trained with a bit of discipline if necessary.
What Kind of Exercise Does a Dog of This Breed Need?
Wirehaired Vizslas need plenty of exercise, as they are active dogs. A long daily walk or jog, along with plenty of playtime in the yard, is ideal. They can also be taught to hunt and retrieve game, which provides them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
Are They Good With Other Pets?
These dogs typically get along well with other pets, as they are gentle and good-natured. However, it’s always important to supervise any interactions between dogs and to introduce them slowly. Small animals, such as guinea pigs, may not be safe around these dogs.
Are They Good With Children?
Wirehaired Vizslas are excellent with children, as they are gentle and patient. They love to play and will often follow kids around the house. As with any dog, it’s important to supervise interactions between children and pets to ensure everyone stays safe.
The Health and Lifespan of a Wirehaired Vizsla
The Wirehaired Vizsla typically has a lifespan of 12-14 years and are generally healthy. However, they can be prone to some health problems, such as:
- hip and elbow dysplasia,
- subaortic stenosis,
- cataracts,
- glaucoma,
- progressive retinal atrophy,
- skin allergies.
Most of these conditions won’t develop in well-bred puppies, as responsible breeders screen the parent dogs for them. However, it’s still important to have your dog checked by a vet regularly, and to keep them on a good diet and exercise routine to avoid joint diseases.
Regular eye exams will help you catch any eye disorders early, so your dog can make a full recovery. For example, cataracts can be treated with surgery before they do major damage to the eyes.
Grooming and Caring for a Wirehaired Vizsla
These dogs don’t require a lot of grooming, but their wiry coat does need to be brushed during the shedding season. Otherwise, wiping them down with a damp cloth between baths should be enough. They also should be checked for ticks and fleas, as they are prone to both.
Ear infections are quite common in this breed, so make sure to clean your dog’s ears regularly. Trim their nails every four weeks or so, as if they grow too long, it can be painful for the dog to walk. Last but not least, get your puppy used to tooth brushing from the start and clean their teeth at least three times a week.
Breeders and Pricing of Wirehaired Vizsla Puppies
Wirehaired Vizsla puppies typically cost between $1,000 and $1,500, depending on the breeder. It’s important to do your research and find a responsible breeder who tests their dogs for genetic diseases and breeds for temperament, as well as looks.
In 2009, there were about 400-450 dogs of the breed in the United Stated and about 3,000 worldwide. It’s difficult to say how many exist now, but the breed remains rare – the easiest way to find it is through the Wirehaired Vizsla Club of America.
Even then, you’ll probably need to put your name on a waiting list. It may also be hard to find a Wirehaired Vizsla up for adoption, so if you’re sure that this is the breed for you, buying a puppy is the more viable option.
A Short History of the Wirehaired Vizsla Dog Breed
The Wirehaired Vizsla is a relatively new breed, having been developed in 1930 in Hungary. They were bred by Jozsef Vasas and Laszlo Gresznarik by crossing the German Wirehaired Pointer and the Vizsla, two breeds known for their hunting abilities.
The goal was to create a dog that would be an excellent all-around hunter and family companion. The breeders also wanted them to keep the distinctive color of the Vizsla but have a more substantial frame and a more weatherproof coat, so they could work in cold water.
Two Vizsla females were bred separately with one liver-colored German Wirehaired Pointer, and their best offspring were selected and bred together to establish the breed. The first Wirehaired Vizsla to be exhibited was born and named Dia de Selle.
Is This the Right Dog Breed for You?
If you’re looking for an active dog that loves to play and is good with children, the Wirehaired Vizsla may be perfect for you. Like all dogs, they do require some grooming and regular veterinary checkups, but they are a healthy breed overall. Be prepared to put your name on a waiting list, as this breed is still relatively rare.
It’s also a good choice if you’re into hunting, as they are excellent at point and retrieve. However, keep in mind that they are also happy just hanging out with their family. So if you’re looking for a versatile dog that can do it all, the Wirehaired Vizsla may be the breed for you.
Interesting Facts about Wirehaired Vizslas
Is there anything else to know about these rare hunting dogs with Hungarian heritage? Here are a few more facts to satisfy your curiosity.
- While they were originally a mix between the Vizsla and the German Wirehaired Pointer, it is thought that other breeds were mixed in over the years. Today’s litters may have Irish Setter, English Pointer, Pudelpointer or Bloodhound ancestors in their pedigrees.
- The Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla was recognized in Europe in 1963 by the FCI (International Canine Federation). After the breed was introduced to North America, it was accepted by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1977. It wasn’t until 2008 that it was admitted into the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service Program.
- According to a report from 2009, about 140-150 puppies of this breed are born every year in Hungary.
Looking to Add This Rare Dog to Your Family?
The Wirehaired Vizsla is a versatile dog who can make a great family companion as well as a working dog. They are intelligent, friendly, and have plenty of energy, so make sure you’re up for the challenge before bringing one into your home.
If you’ve read this far and are intrigued by the Wirehaired Vizsla, be sure to do your research before taking the plunge. Talk to other owners, visit breeders, and learn as much as you can about what to expect.
Do you have experience with this dog breed, or any comments or questions related to our article? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
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