German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla History
The Wirehaired Pointing Griffon (German: Zuchtgriff), known commonly as the wirehaired pointer, is an FCI-sporting breed of gundog. The wirehaired pointer originated in Hungary, and was brought to Germany in 1860 by Baron Franz Nopcsa, where he refined it, first as a flushing spaniel, and then as a pointing dog. The Pointer is a member of the Sporting group, which also includes the Setter, Spaniel, and Retriever, and is closely related to the German Shorthaired Pointer. The Pointer is one of three breeds developed in the mid-19th century, the others being the English Pointer and the Irish Setter. The Pointer was used for sporting, such as duck and pheasant shooting, and as a retriever. The FCI standard for the Wirehaired Pointing Griffon was published in 1953. In addition to pointing, the breed is also capable of upland gamebird work, including grouse and woodcock.
German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla Physical Characteristics
The German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla is a medium-sized, medium-energy working gundog that originally developed in Germany. They weigh between 50 and 70 pounds and stand between 23 and 27 inches tall at the shoulders. They have long, sleek, wire-haired coats that come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. They have a long head and a slender muzzle. Their eyes are typically dark brown or hazel. Their ears are large and erect. They have muscular, athletic bodies.
Eye Colors
Brown, Amber
Nose Colors
Black, Brown
Coat Colors
Red, Brown
Height Range
Male Height Range: 23 – 25 inches
Female Height Range: 21 – 24 inches
Weight Range
Male Weight Range: 55 – 65 lbs
Female Weight Range: 45 – 55 lbs
German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla Health
Description of breed health.
Lifespan
12-14 yrs
German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla Health Concerns
Elbow Dysplasia, Hip Dysplasia, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Ear Infections, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla Temperament and Behaviour
The German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla is a confident, loyal, and affectionate breed. They are happy, playful, and energetic, and enjoy being around people. They are natural watchdogs and will bark to alert their owners to intruders. They are very intelligent and can be easily trained. They are a highly intelligent, powerful, and high energy hunting dog. They require an experienced master. This breed requires plenty of exercise. If they don’t get enough exercise, they can become destructive.
German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla Activity Requirements
German Wirehaired Pointers, more commonly known as “Vizslas,” are an active sporting dog with a cheerful disposition. Their intelligence and strong desire to please make them easy to train, and they love nothing more than spending time with their family. Though they are known for their hunting ability, Vizslas are also happy when kept as house pets. They do not need a lot of physical exercise, but they do require mental stimulation and companionship. A daily walk or a game of fetch will keep your Vizsla happy. If you are looking for a companion who is easy to train, enjoys lots of attention, and doesn’t require a lot of space, a Vizsla may be the perfect pet for you. They are an energetic, fun-loving, and devoted breed who will keep you smiling for years to come.
Miles Per Day
14 miles
Activity Per Day
120 minutes
Daily Food
3 cups
Kennel Club Recognition

American Kennel Club
Not Recognized
German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the American Kennel Club website.

The Kennel Club
Not Recognized
German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Kennel Club website.

Australian National Kennel Council
Not Recognized
German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Australian National Kennel Council website.

Canadian Kennel Club
Not Recognized
German Wirehaired Pointing Vizsla is part of the Unclassified group.
Visit the Canadian Kennel Club website.