Wirehaired Vizsla
The Wirehaired Vizsla is described by the AKC as gentle, loyal, trainable, a member of the Sporting Group, originally from Hungary.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 23-25 inches (male), 21.5-23 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 55-65 pounds (male), 45-55 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Gentle / Loyal / Trainable [1] |
| AKC group | Sporting Group [1] |
| Origin | Hungary [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 130 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
The Wirehaired Vizsla is a high-energy dog who needs a lot of exercise. They love being around their people and are happiest doing things together. This makes the breed a great candidate as a canine partner for owners who love to hike, bicycle, or jog. [1]
Grooming
The Wirehaired Vizsla is something of a 'wash and wear' dog, requiring only minimal grooming to maintain them in good condition. Wiping them down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient in between baths. Using a grooming mitt or shedding knife on their coat during shedding season can help keep down the amount of hair they shed in your home. [1]
Health issues to budget for
The Wirehaired Vizsla is a generally healthy breed, and responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for health conditions such as hyperuricosuria (susceptibility to kidney and bladder stones), elbow and hip dysplasia, subaortic stenosis, glaucoma, progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a medium dog (median $482) | $239 – $1,107 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, medium dog | $589 – $1,571 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, medium dog | $264 – $2,106 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Wirehaired Vizsla in 2014. [1]
- It ranked No. 130 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 156 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “WV.” [1]
- The AKC lists Hungary as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 5/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 5/5)
Common questions
How long do Wirehaired Vizslas live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a Wirehaired Vizsla get?
AKC breed information lists height 23-25 inches (male), 21.5-23 inches (female) and weight 55-65 pounds (male), 45-55 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Wirehaired Vizsla?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For medium dogs like the Wirehaired Vizsla, a typical vet bill runs $239 – $1,107 (median $482). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.