Pet Wiki

Wirehaired Vizsla

Also called Hungarian Wire-haired Vizsla, Drótszőrű magyar vizsla, Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer

A loving, clever and self-assured dog that bonds closely with its family.

SizeLarge
Height54 to 64 cm (21 to 25 in)males 58 to 64 cm, females 54 to 60 cm12
Lifespan12 to 14 years342
CoatWiry, close-lying, water-repellent coat with undercoat
OriginHungary, developed in the 1930s.12
GroupFCI group 7
Last checked2026-09-30
Recognised breedShort profile
affectionate and people-focused
easy to train and eager to please
calm and gentle at home
153

Personality what they are like

A loving, clever and self-assured dog that bonds closely with its family. Indoors it is mellow and gentle; outdoors it is a keen, tireless hunter on land and in water. It is sensitive and learns best with kind, reward-based training.1532

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Wirehaired Vizsla. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

  • Brushingevery week
  • Bathevery 8 weeks
  • Hand strippingHand stripping keeps the harsh texture; clipping also worksevery 12 weeks
  • Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
  • Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
  • Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
  • ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
  • Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
  • Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 7every year

Coat and looks how to spot one

wiry, close-lying, water-repellent coat with undercoat

A lean but solidly built golden gundog, a little heavier in bone than the smooth Vizsla. Its harsh, flat-lying coat of about 2-3 cm keeps out wind and water, and it wears noticeable eyebrows, a short beard and brushes of hair on the legs.164

Coloursrusset golddark sandy gold16

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Very high. The RKC suggests more than two hours a day; running, swimming, field work and dog sports such as agility or dock diving suit it.653

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush the wiry coat regularly (the RKC suggests more than once a week) with a slicker brush; occasional hand-stripping keeps the texture right, plus routine ears, nails and teeth care.63

Home where they are happiest

Best in a larger home with a big garden, in town or country, with an active family that gets it outdoors every day.64

Company who they like around

Very people-oriented and usually good with children and friendly to strangers; happiest included in everything the family does.42

The story where it all began

In 1930s Hungary, hunters Vasas József and Gresznarik László wanted a Vizsla with a thicker coat and sturdier frame for cold, rough conditions. They crossed Vizsla bitches with a German Wirehaired Pointer, then bred on to fix the golden colour and wire coat, and the FCI recognised the result in 1963.21

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Its FCI standard requires field and water trials, reflecting its role as an all-round hunter.1

  2. 2

    Most Wirehaired Vizslas take to water naturally.3

  3. 3

    The AKC gave it full recognition only in 2014, decades after Canada did in 1977.2

  4. 4

    The breed was originally shaped by Hungarian hunters and falconers.4

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Vizsla' means 'pointer' in Hungarian, and 'Wirehaired' refers to its dense, wiry coat that distinguishes it from the smooth-coated Vizsla.5

Name ideas for your new friend

BodzaCsillagFarkasHarcosLiliMisiNádorPistaRózsaSándorTündeZoltán

A day in the life told by a Wirehaired Vizsla

I woke up with a big stretch, my tail thumping against the bed. My human whispered, 'Time for our run!' We sprinted through the fields, my nose full of rabbit smells. After a quick dip in the lake, we came home where I played a gentle game of tug with the kids. I'm a big softie inside, always checking on everyone. In the evening, I rested my head on my human's lap while they read. I'm happiest when we're together, whether we're working or cuddling. This is the best life.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI
Standard no. 239, Group 7 Pointing Dogs, Section 1 Continental Pointing Dogs, with field and water trial; FCI recognition 1963, current standard published 06.04.2000.1
AKC
Full recognition 2 July 2014; earlier CKC 1977, UKC 2006, ANKC 2007.2
The Royal Kennel Club
Gundog Group, as Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla; not a vulnerable native breed.6

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Wirehaired Vizsla tip

Choose single-protein, low-fat treats like lean chicken or turkey, and avoid rich or fatty snacks to protect a sensitive stomach. Keep treats to under 10% of daily calories and always ask your vet about the best options for your dog.

Source: petmd.com

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Frozen Yoghurt & Berry Kong Stuffing

A cooling, low-calorie treat that’s perfect for large dogs who love to lick and work for their food. Blueberries provide antioxidants, and plain yoghurt is gentle on the stomach.

You need

  • 120g plain Greek yoghurt (unsweetened, no additives)
  • 50g fresh or frozen blueberries (chopped if large)

How

  1. Mix the yoghurt and blueberries together in a small bowl.
  2. Spoon the mixture into a Kong or similar treat-dispensing toy.
  3. Place the stuffed Kong upright in a cup or on a tray in the freezer.
  4. Freeze for at least 3-4 hours or until solid.
  5. Give to your dog as a supervised treat.

How much: One stuffed Kong per day for a large/giant dog, reducing their dinner portion accordingly.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Simple Apple & Carrot Crunchies

Crunchy, low-calorie treats that help clean teeth and provide vitamins. Apple and carrot are safe for dogs in moderation and are naturally sweet.

You need

  • 1 medium apple (cored, seeds removed)
  • 1 medium carrot

How

  1. Wash the apple and carrot thoroughly.
  2. Core the apple and remove all seeds (seeds contain trace cyanide).
  3. Slice both into thin, bite-sized pieces suitable for your dog’s size.
  4. Serve raw as a crunchy treat, or lightly steam the carrot if your dog prefers softer textures.

How much: Give a few slices per day for a large/giant dog, ensuring treats make up no more than 10% of daily calories.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Wirehaired Vizsla, and at what times?

Feed your adult Wirehaired Vizsla at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. A consistent schedule helps digestion and behaviour. Check the food label for portion sizes and ask your vet for a plan tailored to your dog.7

What should a Wirehaired Vizsla eat, and which foods are dangerous?

Feed a high-quality dog food suited to your dog's age and activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always avoid these and consult your vet for a complete list.8

How often should I bathe a Wirehaired Vizsla?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty. The ASPCA recommends at least once every three months. Use a dog-safe shampoo and avoid over-bathing to protect the coat's natural oils.9 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Wirehaired Vizsla need brushing?

Brush your Wirehaired Vizsla's wiry coat at least once a week with a slicker brush to remove loose hair and prevent mats. Pet Wiki's starting plan is weekly brushing, and the Royal Kennel Club suggests more than once a week for best results.6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Wirehaired Vizsla's nails, and how often?

Trim your dog's nails every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask a vet or groomer for a demonstration.9 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Wirehaired Vizsla need?

This breed needs more than two hours of vigorous exercise daily, including running, swimming, or dog sports. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play. A tired Wirehaired Vizsla is a happy and well-behaved companion.653 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Wirehaired Vizsla's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth two to three times a week using a dog-safe toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or debris. Pet Wiki suggests daily brushing and weekly ear checks. Never insert anything into the ear canal.9 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Wirehaired Vizsla live?

A Wirehaired Vizsla typically lives between 12 and 14 years with good care. Providing a healthy diet, regular exercise, and routine vet visits helps them enjoy a long, happy life.342

Is a Wirehaired Vizsla good with children and other pets?

Yes, this breed is usually very good with children and bonds closely with its family. It is generally friendly to strangers and can get along with other pets when properly socialized, though its hunting instinct may be strong around small animals.425

Can a Wirehaired Vizsla be left alone?

This breed is very people-oriented and prefers to be with its family. It may struggle with long periods alone and can develop separation anxiety. Provide plenty of companionship and mental stimulation if you must leave it.42

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI Standard No. 239 Hungarian Wire-haired Vizsla fci.beused for recognition, size, coat, colour, temperament
  2. Wirehaired Vizsla - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, history, recognition dates, lifespan study
  3. Wirehaired Vizsla Club of America flyer (AKC) s3.amazonaws.comused for lifespan, grooming, exercise, temperament, fun fact
  4. Westminster Kennel Club - Wirehaired Vizsla westminsterkennelclub.orgused for weight, lifespan, social needs, fun fact
  5. AKC - Wirehaired Vizsla akc.orgused for temperament, activity
  6. The Royal Kennel Club - Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla royalkennelclub.comused for exercise, grooming, habitat, group
  7. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  8. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  9. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.