Wirehaired Vizsla Breed Guide: Temperament, Care and Health

By Tailwisp Editorial TeamUpdated October 17, 20263 min read

The Wirehaired Vizsla is a rugged cousin of the Vizsla, with a harsh coat, a beard and eyebrows. It was developed to work in colder, rougher conditions and keeps the Vizsla's loyalty and drive.

Origins and appearance

The breed was created in Hungary in the twentieth century by crossing Vizslas with German Wirehaired Pointers. Wirehaired Vizslas are medium-sized and athletic, with a bearded face, drop ears, a dense, wiry, water-resistant coat in golden rust and a docked or natural tail.

Temperament

They are affectionate, loyal and energetic. They bond closely with family and want to be involved. They are intelligent and sometimes more independent than smooth Vizslas. They can develop separation anxiety. They have strong hunting instinct.

Exercise

They need two hours or more of daily exercise, with running, hiking, swimming and play. They excel at field work, agility and canine sports. Mental work matters. They need secure fencing.

Training

They are intelligent and eager. Use positive methods, variety and early socialization. Teach a reliable recall, a settle and calm separations. See recall training guide.

Coat and grooming

The wiry coat needs weekly brushing and occasional stripping or trimming. See wire coat dog grooming guide. Clean the beard, ears and nails. Brush teeth.

Health considerations

Topics include:

• Hip dysplasia. See hip dysplasia in dogs
• Epilepsy. See seizures and epilepsy in dogs
• Allergies. See dog skin allergies
• Eye conditions
• Hypothyroidism
• Cancer. See signs of cancer in dogs

Living with a Wirehaired Vizsla

They suit very active families with space and time. They do best with company. They are poorly suited to long hours alone.

A typical day

A Wirehaired Vizsla wants a long morning run, training, a rest, a swim or play and an evening walk. Many are close companions at home.

Puppies and the first year

Puppies are bouncy and clingy. Begin socialization, handling and training. Provide chew toys and practice short separations. See puppy socialization checklist.

Costs and commitment

Plan for food for an active dog, training and vet care. See dog vet cost guide.

Seasons and travel

They tolerate cold and water better than smooth Vizslas, but need shade and water in heat. They travel well when exercised.

Common mistakes

Common mistakes include underexercising, leaving the dog alone, skipping training and harsh corrections.

Choosing a puppy or adult

Ask about hip and eye tests, and the parents' temperaments. Field lines are more intense than show lines.

A tougher Vizsla

The wiry coat protects against brush and cold water, so many hunters prefer the wirehaired type for cold-weather work. In family life, expect the same closeness as the smooth Vizsla.

Beard and brows

The beard collects water and food, so wash it after meals. Strip loose hair a few times a year or trim to keep the texture.

Is it the right breed for you?

A Wirehaired Vizsla suits very active owners who want an affectionate, weather-resistant gundog. It may not suit people who are away all day. For the smooth-coated cousin, see the Vizsla.

Standing out from the smooth type

Both Vizslas share a golden-rust color and a devoted personality, but the wirehaired type is heavier-boned and more weather-ready. Owners often say the wirehaired dog has a slightly more independent, serious streak, though it remains a family dog. Because the breed is newer and less common, expect a wait and ask breeders about both parents' coats, since proper wiry texture and a dense undercoat are traits to look for.

Cold water work

The thick, wiry coat repels water and gives good protection during winter retrieves. After swimming, dry the dog thoroughly, especially the ears, and keep the beard clean to avoid skin problems.

The takeaway

Wirehaired Vizslas are rugged, loyal and driven, and they need exercise, training and company.