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Wirehaired Vizsla

Sporting Group

Loyal, energetic and intelligent

Wirehaired Vizsla

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Breed Overview

These overviews provide a quick snapshot of each breed’s characteristics. For a more detailed understanding, especially if you’re considering adopting one, it’s advisable to consult breed-specific resources or talk to a veterinarian or a breeder specializing in these breeds.

Physical Characteristics
  • Size Medium
  • Height Males 23 to 25 inches, females slightly smaller
  • Weight Typically ranges from 45 to 65 pounds
  • Life Span 12-14 years
  • Coat Dense, wiry, and weather-resistant with a distinctive beard and eyebrows
  • Color Golden rust
  • Grooming Relatively low maintenance, but their coat does require regular brushing to remove dead hair and minimize shedding
  • Temperament Loyal, affectionate, gentle
  • Energy Level High
  • Intelligence High
Health Needs
  • Health Needs Generally healthy, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain genetic conditions, including hip dysplasia and thyroid disorders
  • Trainability Highly trainable due to their intelligence and desire to please their owners. They respond best to positive reinforcement techniques such as treats and praise
  • Socialization Good with children and other pets; needs early socialization
  • Grooming Moderate; occasional brushing to maintain coat health
  • Health Issues Generally healthy; some may be prone to hip dysplasia, thyroid issues, and eye problems
Environment
  • Suitability for Families Excellent family pet; affectionate, good with children, thrives on interaction and activity with family members
  • Suitable Living Space Best in homes with yards; adapts well if provided ample daily exercise and engagement

About the Breed

The Wirehaired Vizsla is a versatile hunting dog, equally adept at pointing and retrieving. They are robust and weather-resistant, designed to handle rough terrain and cold weather. Their affectionate nature makes them excellent family companions, bonding deeply with their owners.

 

History of the Breed

Originating in Hungary in the 1930s, the Wirehaired Vizsla was developed by crossing the smooth-coated Vizsla with other wirehaired breeds like the German Wirehaired Pointer. The goal was to create a breed with the Vizsla’s color and hunting abilities but with a thicker coat for colder climates.

Hungary

Fun Facts About the Wirehaired Vizsla

What To Expect When Caring For a Wirehaired Vizsla

Health

Generally healthy, but prone to conditions like hip dysplasia and eye disorders. Regular vet check-ups and genetic screening by breeders help manage these risks.

Grooming

Their wiry coat requires minimal grooming, but regular brushing is necessary to remove dead hair and maintain coat health. Bathing should be done as needed.

Exercise

High energy levels demand daily physical activity. Activities like running, hiking, and playing fetch are ideal to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.

Training

Intelligent and eager to please, they respond well to positive reinforcement. Consistency and patience are key in their training regime.

Nutrition

A balanced diet suited to their age, size, and energy level is essential. High-quality commercial food or well-planned home-cooked meals recommended by a veterinarian will support their health.

The Wirehaired Vizsla is a remarkable breed, perfect for active families who can provide the necessary care, exercise, and love. Their intelligence, loyalty, and versatile abilities make them not just great working dogs but also wonderful companions. They will be a joyful addition to any home with the right environment and care.

Wirehaired Vizsla Common Health Issues and Recommended Tests

Wirehaired Vizslas, like any breed, are prone to certain health conditions. Being aware of these common issues helps in early detection and proper care. Here are some of the health concerns commonly associated with Wirehaired Vizslas:

Description: A genetic condition where the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint. This can lead to arthritis and can be debilitating.

Description: Similar to hip dysplasia, this is a hereditary malformation of the elbow joint, which can cause lameness and arthritis.

Description: Conditions like entropion, ectropion, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can occur. Regular eye exams are crucial.

Description: Hypothyroidism, a disorder of the thyroid gland, is not uncommon and can lead to issues like obesity, lethargy, and skin problems.

Description: This neurological disorder can cause seizures. While it can be managed with medication, it requires lifelong care.

Description: Including conditions like valve diseases or heart muscle diseases (cardiomyopathies).

Hip Dysplasia

Description: A genetic condition where the thighbone doesn't fit snugly into the hip joint. This can lead to arthritis and can be debilitating.

Elbow Dysplasia

Description: Similar to hip dysplasia, this is a hereditary malformation of the elbow joint, which can cause lameness and arthritis.

Eye Problems

Description: Conditions like entropion, ectropion, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can occur. Regular eye exams are crucial.

Thyroid Issues

Description: Hypothyroidism, a disorder of the thyroid gland, is not uncommon and can lead to issues like obesity, lethargy, and skin problems.

Epilepsy

Description: This neurological disorder can cause seizures. While it can be managed with medication, it requires lifelong care.

Heart Diseases

Description: Including conditions like valve diseases or heart muscle diseases (cardiomyopathies).

While genetic predispositions exist, not all Wirehaired Vizslas will suffer from these health issues. However, understanding these risks and engaging in proactive health management can greatly contribute to a healthy, happy life for your Wirehaired Vizsla.

Prescription Medication Assistance for Wirehaired Vizslas

The iHeartDogs Free Rx Discount Card Program is a pet prescription discount card that can help you save money on your furry friend’s medications. The card is free to sign up for, and you can use it at participating pharmacies nationwide. To use the free program, simply show the card to your pharmacist when you pick up your pet’s prescription. The pharmacist will then scan the card, and you will receive a discount on the price of the medication.LEARN MORE

How Much Does It Cost To Care For A Wirehaired Vizsla?

Like any dog, caring for a Wirehaired Vizsla comes with various expenses. The annual cost can vary depending on several factors your location, the dog’s health, and the level of care you choose to provide. Here’s a breakdown of the typical expenses:

A purebred Wirehaired Vizsla puppy from a reputable breeder can be quite expensive. Always consider adopting from a shelter or rescue.

Initial Cost

$1000 - 2500

Potential Additional Costs:

When searching for a reputable breeder, seek online reviews, and advice from vets, groomers, and fellow Wirehaired Vizsla enthusiasts.

Initial supplies like a crate, bed, bowls, collar, and leash can really add up.

Initial Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

You may already have many of these items at home. Costs will vary depending on your purchase choices.

High-quality dog food suited to their size and energy level.

Estimated Cost

$250 - 700

Potential Additional Costs:

Learn more about the best quality dog food for Wirehaired Vizslas.

Wirehaired Vizslas require regular grooming.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

If you choose to perform simple grooming tasks at home you will need to invest in high-quality grooming supplies, such as dog-safe shampoos, nail trimmers, and haircutting shears.

Wirehaired Vizslas require routine vet visits for check-ups, vaccinations, and flea and tick prevention.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

The cost of veterinary care can vary widely depending on your geographic location and many other factors. This estimate only represents the cost of wellness care, and does not include any potential illnesses or injuries that may arise.

Pet insurance offers financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring that you can afford necessary veterinary care in the event of an emergency.

Estimated Cost

$200 - 600

Potential Additional Costs:

Insurance premiums vary depending on the coverage you choose as well as your Wirehaired Vizsla's age and health. Get a FREE, no-strings quote from the top pet insurers!

Your Wirehaired Vizsla will need toys, chews, wellness supplements, car safety equipment, and other supplies throughout their life.

Estimated Cost

$100 - 300

Potential Additional Costs:

Additional supplies can add up depending on the level of care you provide your pup.

Professional training is extremely important, but can add several hundred dollars to the cost of your dog's care.

Estimated Cost

$500 - 1000

Potential Additional Costs:

Online Courses are available and can help you save money.

Setting aside funds for unexpected health issues is always a good idea.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Can easily reach into the thousands with surgical costs, IVs, medications and after hours treatment.

If you travel or work long hours, you may need boarding or pet sitting services.

Estimated Cost

Varies based on need

Potential Additional Costs:

Overnight-boarding, day-boarding, and pet-sitting costs vary depending on the area you live, length of stay/frequency of services, and the amenities offered by the boarding facility or pet sitter.

A one-time fee for microchipping and annual local licensing fees.

Estimated Cost

$50 - 100

Total Estimated Annual Cost:

$2500 - $6400

It's important to note that these figures are estimates and can vary. Also, the first year of owning a dog can be more expensive due to one-time costs like spaying/neutering, initial vaccinations, and training. Regular budgeting for your dog's needs and an emergency fund for unforeseen costs are essential for responsible pet ownership.

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