Overview
The Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla was created in the 1930s by crossing smooth Vizslas with German Wirehaired Pointers to get a tougher dog for cold water and rough ground. It has the same russet colour, a harsh dense coat, a beard and a slightly heavier frame. In Britain it is less common than the smooth Vizsla.
Temperament leans calmer than the smooth, though not by much. It still bonds hard, dislikes being left and wants a full day of involvement.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and three quarters a day is a fair target for an adult, with free running and a chance to work the nose. A walk on a short lead round the block will not do.
The wire coat handles rain and cold water better than the smooth, so winter swims are on the table if the owner approves.
Daily minimum100 minutes
Ideal2 walks a day
Off-lead timeMost days
On the walk
- Recall: Generally good, as the dog likes to keep its person in sight. Birds and deer still test it.
- Pulling: Enthusiastic at the start. A couple of minutes of calm at the gate sets the tone.
- Other dogs: Playful and friendly, well suited to running in a group of fit dogs.
- Coat and beard: Mud and water hang in the beard and furnishings. Towel it or the car will suffer.
- Weather: Tougher than the smooth Vizsla, but still a lean dog. Watch for shivering if standing about.
Tips for professional walkers
- Build retrieves into the walk; it gives the drive a direction.
- Take the dog on varied routes; it is bright and bores quickly on a repeated loop.
- Check the beard for food and debris at the end of the walk.
Every dog is an individual. Treat this as a starting point and go with what the owner tells you about their dog. Anything to do with health belongs with the owner and their vet.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog cope with being left, and is a hand-over routine needed?
- Is water allowed, and has the dog had any ear trouble after swimming?
- Has the vet cleared it for running and jumping, or is it still growing?