Wirehaired Vizsla

The Wirehaired Vizsla (VEESH-la) is robust and powerful dog , with a wiry weather-resistant coat. Derived in the 1930's from the Vizsla and the German Wirehaired Pointer, it shares the unique rust-brown coat color as the Vizsla. This dog stands about 22 to 25 inches at the shoulder; its medium size as a hunting dog is considered a particularly appealing trait. It has a well-defined musculature. The back is a little longer than the height. The skull is domed and muscular, with a pronounced medial line down the middle; the medium eyes are wide-set and amber in color. The muzzle is as long as the skull and tapered. The nose is pinkish-red. The ears of the Wirehaired Vizsla are large and pendulous, dropping to the jawline. The feet of this dog are arched and often described as "catlike."� The tail of this dog is normally docked to two thirds its length; this practice is banned in several countries; Wirehaired Vizsla breed clubs now routinely keep documentation of injuries to the dogs whose tails were not docked for hunting. The dewclaws are generally removed. The Wirehaired Vizsla has a double layer coat that is made of a top layer of straight, harsh guard hairs and an under layer of dense, woolly hair. This coat serves to protect the dog when it is working in adverse weather, in water, and in cold conditions. As is the coat of its cousin the Vizsla, it is always a red color that the American Kennel Club calls "golden-rust"�; it could also be called a copper-brown. The Vizsla is a hunting dog that was developed in Hungary to be the elite gun dog of the upper class, combining the skills of pointer with retriever. It is known not only for its hunting ability, but for its unique suitability as house pet and family companion. It is believed that it shared a common ancestry with other pointers such as the Transylvania Hound and the "Turkish Yellow Dog,"� which is now extinct. The word "vizsla"� means "pointer"� in the Hungarian language. This dog was originally the hunting dog of the Magyar tribes and came with them as they moved west from Asia into Europe. Various etchings beginning in the 10th century testify to the Vizsla's early presence; they clearly depict the Magyar hunter accompanied by his falcon and Vizsla. It is mentioned in manuscripts beginning in the 14th century. It is believed that the Vizsla was originally the hunting dog of chieftains and warlords; this elite ownership would have somewhat assured the continued purity of the favored hunting dog's lines. In the 1930's fanciers of hunting dogs desired to develop a breed that had the instincts of the Vizsla and the same coloring, but was a bit heavier and had a coat that could better withstand the elements, and in particular would be well-suited to working in water. The group was granted permission by the Hungarian kennel club to work to develop the breed, and began crossing the Vizsla with the German Wirehaired Pointer to get the desired coat. By 1944 some sixty dogs were registered in the stud book. The Federation Cynologique Internationale recognized the breed in 1966, and hunting dog enthusiasts all over Europe began importing the dogs. It first came to the United States in the 1970's. The Wirehaired Vizsla is a high energy hunting dog that requires plenty of exercise. A daily period of hard exercise such as a brisk long walk, is recommended. Without the opportunity to burn off energy the Wirehaired Vizsla, like many high-energy, intelligent dogs, can become bored and resort to undesirable behaviors. The Wirehaired Vizsla should be leashed when not working, or confined within a securely-fenced yard; its strong hunting drive will lead it to wander off. A large, secure yard or area where the dog can exercise off-leash is highly desirable with this breed. The Wirehaired Vizsla enjoys water, and will take any opportunity to splash in a lake, stream or pool. The coat of the Wirehaired Vizsla is a single coat; this dog is not suited for long periods outdoors in cold weather, and it must be kept indoors at night. The coat requires little care. The Wirehaired Vizsla is a moderate shedder; a brushing a few times weekly will keep the coat clean and in top condition, and will remove dead hairs. The Wirehaired Vizsla is naturally a clean dog, and carries little or no "doggie odor"� on its coat. The shape of the Wirehaired Vizsla's ears predispose it to developing ear infections. The ears should be checked routinely for signs of mites or infection; neglecting ear infections can result in a very painful condition for the dog and can permanently injure the hearing apparatus. The ears should also be checked whenever the dog has been outdoors running or hunting, for ticks. The Wirehaired Vizsla has some inherited health disorders, including epilepsy, megaoesophagus, and hip dysplasia. The average lifespan of this dog is 12 to 15 years. The Wirehaired Vizsla is renowned for being an outstanding hunting dog that is also well-suited to live as a house pet. Although tough in the field, this dog is inherently gentle-mannered in the house. The Wirehaired Vizsla forms close bonds to its family, and in particular children. It needs to be near family and involved in family activities. It is protective by nature and makes a good watchdog, but it rarely barks unless there is good reason. These dogs are known to cry and otherwise vocalize, however, when they want something. The Wirehaired Vizsla is considered a highly trainable dog; eager to please and intelligent, it is a quick learner. Not only are they simple to train for life in the house, but these dogs are excellent dogs for competitive obedience, water dog sports, scenting and tracking, and search and rescue. For an owner who desires an excellent hunting dog that is also a great household companion, the Wirehaired Vizsla is the perfect choice.

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