Vizsladogs, Ltd.

Wire Haired Vizsla History

by Becca Winckler

THE WIREHAIRED VIZSLA is a recognized breed, separate from its smooth haired relative in many countries including the U.K. and Canada. In the States they are recognized by the Rare Breed Association and NAVHDA. The breed originated in its native Hungary, around the 1930's, when the GWP was crossed with the Hungarian Vizsla in an attempt to produce a Vizsla with a more protected weatherproof coat for work in water and rough conditions on land. Mr. Vasas Jozsef was the originator of this breeding. The result of it produced the WHV, stronger and more robust than the smooth -- this attribute coming from the GWP. Selle kennels was instrumental in continuing this process and developed the lines that are the basis of the breed. Later,in the 1940's, a little Irish Setter blood was introduced and to attain a better hunting instinct a Hertha Pointer and a Pudel Pointer were used. At some point a little bloodhound may have been added. It is also almost certain a Braque, probably Hannoveraner was used in the creation.

In its native Hungary, wildfowl hunting on the great plains is a popular and lucrative past time with sportsmen from all over the continent traveling to the region to shoot. It is essential therefore to have a dog suited to their requirements, and with its thick wirehaired coat, this breed has definite advantages over it's smooth haired relative.

In general the Wirehaired Vizsla is a robust dog with a much stronger bone structure and slightly larger frame than the smooth haired vizsla. The Wirehaired shares many of the smooth haired attributes; intelligence, devotion, an even temperament with excellent scenting abilities. They do seem to be a little more low key than the smooths. They love water and have a strong retrieving instinct. It is also a popular choice of falconers in many countries. In style, action and pointing they are the equals of all the other well known sporting breeds.

There are less than 200 WHV in the US.