Appeared somewhere between the steppes of Russia and the Carpathians, the Hungarian Pointer (commonly known as Vizsla, What does it mean “pointer” in Hungarian) has an ancient history, probably thousands of years. He already accompanied the Magyar tribes before they settled in the Carpathian basin, where is present-day Hungary, in the 9th century.

The first references to this dog date back to the 13th century, and more precisely to the story of one of the scribes of King Adelbert III (1235-1270) that recounts the migrations of the Hungarian people, in which the use of a yellowish dog named Vizsla for hunting. It was also depicted in the 14th century in the illustrations of the chronicles written by the Carmelites. Numerous 16th century Hungarian documents also evoke his role as a faithful companion of kings and aristocracy..

While there is no doubt that the Vizsla current is the result of numerous crossbreeds between hunting dogs over the centuries, these were always carried out in order to preserve the original characteristics, as evidenced by the brown nose which is different from most of the others pointers.

Historically, the Vizsla has always had a short coat. However, early twentieth century, in the Decade of 1930, two breeders came up with the idea of ​​a Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer to the breeders club of the country. His goal was to create a dog with all the qualities of the Vizsla, but with a coat that would protect it more effectively from snow and icy water, as well as scratches and scrapes when hunting in the woods.

Although it was debated, the proposal was accepted under certain conditions, including maintaining the same coat color. Jozsef Vasa, breeder of the Hungarian Pointer, y Laszlo Gresznarik, breeder of the German Shorthaired Pointer, crossed two female Vizsla named Csibi and Zsuzsi with a male of German Shorthaired Pointer called Astor von Potat. Two generations later, Selle Day was the first Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer that was shown at a dog show.

It seems that during World War II, when the population was in decline, crosses were also made with other breeds such as the Setter Irish or the Griffon. However, there is no record of this miscegenation in the records kept by Hungarian organizations.

The breed was recognized in 1963 by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), nine years after the Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer. The first specimens were exported to North America in the decade of 1970. More quickly adopted in Canada, to the point of gaining official recognition from the Canadian Kennel Club (CKC) in 1977.

In the United States, was not up 2006 and 2014 respectively than the United Kennel Club (UKC) and the American Kennel Club (AKC) they did the same, while they had already recognized the Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer in 1960 (AKC) and 1984 (UKC). Its growing presence in Europe also allowed it to be recognized by the British Kennel Club. (KC) in 1991.

Photo: Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer; MVD belongs to the sample dogs of the group 7 of the FCI with proof of work by Broneder, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

The Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer it is a medium-sized dog that differs from its short-haired cousin by its slightly squarer appearance on average, but also and above all because of the length and texture of its coat.

Its slightly rectangular body is dry and well developed, no superfluous roundness. He leans on legs of solid bones, well structured and with prominent muscles. The legs are oval in shape and end in brown claws.

The tail is wide at the base and tapers to the tip. For years, as a precaution for hunting parties, the queue was shortened by about a quarter. This practice of cutting the tail of dogs (tail docking) is currently prohibited in many territories, including France, Switzerland, Belgium and Quebec.

The head of the Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer it is quite wide, with a slightly domed skull at a moderate stop. Ears are back, going down along the cheeks and are slightly shorter than those of the Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer. The eyes are oval, medium-sized, and brown according to the coat. The muzzle is quite short and ends in a broad brown nose as well, but darker in color than fur.

It is the latter that clearly distinguishes him from his cousin. Both have a dense, waterproof underlayer, but the top layer of the Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer is longer (2 a 3 cm.) and it has a completely different texture. They are made of wire hair, hard, dense and very dense. These features give it excellent protection against harsh outdoor conditions.. At face level, hair is slightly shorter, except on the eyebrows and especially the beard. This is not very long (2-3cm.), but it is very pronounced and noticeable.

Like his short haired counterpart, the fur of the Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer it's golden wheat, and the spikes may be darker in the shade. Shades of red, brown or light yellow are accepted, but they are not wanted. A small white spot on the chest is possible, as long as it does not exceed 5 cm..

At last, sexual dimorphism is well marked in this breed, the male being significantly larger and more massive than the female.

The character of Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer is comparable to the Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer, but with the addition of a wet beard when stroked.

They are very close to their family and are affectionate and playful with their own. However, generally feels closer to a particular person among them, whom he considers as his human reference, and it doesn't stop making you feel clearly.

In any case, he is much less open with humans who are not part of his home. This does not mean that he is aggressive or distrustful towards them., but rather indifferent.

However, if you perceive a threat to your family or territory, whether it comes from an unknown human or another animal, he is very protective, not hesitating to scold or even interfere.

He behaves in exactly the same way with children. Like this, is close to the little ones of the family, but he prefers to avoid others. You have to be careful when the first one plays with friends, as you may misinterpret some of the second's actions as aggression, and then react inappropriately. Like any other dog of any breed, should not be left alone with a young child without adult supervision.

The Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer gets along well with his peers, whether they are those you meet on your walks or those who share your home when necessary. Their relationships with other animals are much more complicated, as they soon fall victim to their strong hunting instinct. The domestic cat is usually protected, especially if you have grown up with him since he was young, but a rodent or a bird cannot say the same if he lives next to him in the house or is on a walk. An unknown cat is also likely to be relentlessly chased.

Used for centuries to succeed on long hunting trips, the Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer still an active dog today. You need to be able to exercise for at least an hour each day to feel comfortable, and he is even happier if he can spend whole days walking in the woods. Therefore, its level of activity implies that it is not suitable for an elderly or very sedentary person.

Hunting is still his favorite activity, and the one that best allows you to express all your qualities. In all other respects, canine research sports (tracking, cavemen…) they are a perfect outlet, to solicit your extraordinary sense of smell.

Obedience and agility are also disciplines that will do you good. More simply, it is also a great companion for cyclists, runners, hikers, nature lovers, mushroom pickers… This is all the more true since it is robust and capable of evolving on all types of terrain., from dense forests to rocky mountains, passing through snowy plains or swamps.

In the city, it is strongly recommended to keep him on a leash to avoid accidents if he runs after a passing cat or small animal. However, once in the desert, it is much more appropriate to let it run free. Of course, learning withdrawal orders is an essential prerequisite, for obvious security reasons. A GPS dog collar is nevertheless a good investment to help locate you if the deer you are chasing has led you into unfamiliar terrain..

In addition, as it does very well in the aquatic environment. Without being particularly fond, he likes to swim once in a while, especially if the place where you live offers this possibility.

Used to hunting quite independently and, Therefore, make decisions for yourself, the Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer has acquired a certain intelligence coupled with a strong character. A beginning teacher is probably overwhelmed.

If you are independent in your way of acting, does not mean that he likes to be alone. You can wait patiently at home when your family is at work during the day, but should be able to be as much as possible with the rest of the time. In addition, it is likely to hurt if left alone for a whole weekend because it cannot bear the stress caused by the absence of its masters. In addition, just because I'm physically fit to sleep in the garden, even when it's a little cool, does not mean that this is recommended. In fact, to be well in the head, do not keep him away from his family: it's more of an indoor dog, who prefers to watch television at night with his family than to admire the stars alone outside.

This is all the more true as he is surprisingly calm when his exercise needs are met., to the point of being able to live in an apartment, provided it is large enough to accommodate it in good condition. Discreet and well educated, they are not the type to bark at the top of their lungs or howl when dying, and are not usually noticed by the neighbors. In fact, they rarely bark (generally when they perceive a threat), but then they don't stop making themselves heard, since his voice rises a lot.

However, the ideal environment for him is a house with a garden (perfectly fenced) in the countryside. A walk in the city during the same time does not have the same flavor as an outing for a dog accustomed to nature and the great outdoors.

Like all dogs, the Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer benefits greatly from socialization that begins in their first few weeks and continues through the months that follow. Usually goes smoothly, since then he is particularly open and curious, quickly getting used to the different environments and situations you encounter. It´s, because, the ideal time to get used to the people you will meet regularly in your life (friends, neighbors, veterinary…), but also to take him to all kinds of places and allow him to meet various humans and similar creatures.

The education of Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer can give a slightly timid caregiver a hard time, that he would not know how to be respected by his dog. Strong of character and independent, will soon prevail if left alone. However, perfectly suited to beginners, as long as they know how to assert their authority. For this, it is important to establish clear and consistent rules without delay, so much over time (what is prohibited one day is also prohibited the next day) as between the different members of the family (it is not about one person authorizing what another person prohibits), to establish impeccable discipline and ensure that he respects his master's authority. Once you understand that you cannot decide for yourself, accepts the situation and is not the one to monitor the slightest defect and constantly question the established order – If and when, of course, their masters continue to know how to impose themselves when necessary.

On the other hand, educate a Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer it's much simpler, fast and effective with methods based on positive reinforcement. Compliments and caresses are a good source of motivation to make her want to learn, and sweets are also valuable allies to motivate him to do what is asked of him. On the other hand, traditional training techniques are doomed to failure, as they are likely to totally destabilize it, making him fearful and insecure.

Last but not least, withdrawal orders are high on the list of things to teach your dog as a priority. In fact, so that you can let him play freely during field trips, which is particularly beneficial for him, must be perfectly assimilated.

The Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer they are generally robust, with a life expectancy of around 12-14 years, what is in line with the average for dogs of his size.

Their short coat protects them from both heat and cold, allowing them to live in a wide variety of climates. However, not adapted to extremes, and can't sleep outside when freezing, for example, or run in the sun in the middle of a summer heat wave.

No dog is immune to disease, and the Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer is no exception. In this case, to which it is most exposed are ..:

• The Hip Dysplasia, a joint problem often favored by a hereditary predisposition, causing pain and difficulty in movement, as well as osteoarthritis with age;
• Elbow dysplasia, a malformation of the joint, which is also possibly related to a predisposition inherited from parents, and that also causes pain and lameness;
• Epilepsy, a nervous system disease of often hereditary origin, responsible for more or less frequent and intense seizures. The disease cannot be cured by itself, but your symptoms can be relieved with the help of medication;
• Addison's disease, a hormonal deficiency that is usually inherited from the parents and manifests itself in various ways: weakness, vomiting, diarrhea, weightloss… The most severe form of the disease is usually fatal, while the chronic form can be kept under control with lifelong treatment;
• Hemophilia type A, an inherited disorder that prevents blood from clotting properly, and that affects men more than women. May manifest in heavy bleeding, bruising or blood in the urine;
• Hyperuricosia, a disease also inherited from the parents. Corresponds to an excess of uric acid, leading to the formation of crystals in the urine, which in turn can cause bleeding and kidney failure;
• Allergies, that can be caused by factors as different as food, the environment or parasites. Allergies can be caused by factors as different as food, the environment or parasites, and most of the time they manifest as itching and redness of the skin;
• Ear infections, as in most lop-eared dog breeds.

The Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer it is also particularly susceptible to various diseases of the eyes:

• Progressive retinal atrophy, a degeneration of eye tissue that causes irreparable loss of sight, first at night and then also during the day;
• Entropion, a defect in the position of the eyelid that can be inherited and causes irritation of the eyeball. The problem can be treated with surgery;
• Ectropión, an eyelid curl problem also inherited from parents, which also causes eye irritation. Also in this case, an operation remedies the problem;
• Glaucoma, often hereditary, which is a painful increase in the pressure inside the eye. This leads to blindness if it is not operated as soon as possible.

In addition, people who are used to hunt are particularly exposed to the risk of injuries that this activity implies.

Since many of the diseases to which the breed is predisposed are or may be hereditary, the adoption of a strict breeder of Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer maximizes the probability of getting a healthy animal, and one that stays that way. In fact, a professional breeder not only ensures that puppies are well socialized from their first weeks of life, but also that they do not inherit a hereditary defect from their parents. To achieve this goal, causes various genetic tests to be systematically performed on the breeding stock in question, and excludes all those who may present a risk. You can also have the resulting puppies examined to confirm the absence of a hereditary condition.. In any case, must be able to present the results of the tests performed, plus a certificate of good health from a veterinarian and the puppy's health or vaccination record, that includes all vaccines that have been administered.

In addition, from the moment he arrives home until the end of his life, it is essential to allow your dog to be regularly examined by a veterinarian for a complete health check. This is necessary at least once a year, and more often as you get older, as it allows early detection of a potential problem and action accordingly. These visits are also an opportunity to have immunizations increased when needed.. At the same time, It is also necessary to ensure that antiparasitic treatments of the “child” are renewed throughout the year, so you are never unprotected at this level.

Keep warm Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer it's quite simple, weekly brushing is enough to keep it clean and healthy. However, she lets go of her undercoat twice a year, in spring and autumn, and daily brushing is recommended to help remove dead hairs.

An occasional bath is also necessary, but the frequency of the bath largely depends on the lifestyle of your dog. For example, it is not useless to bathe several times a month an individual who is used for hunting or who often travels through muddy trails in the forest and sleeps inside the house. On the other hand, two or three a year may be perfectly enough for someone else who walks mostly on rocky trails in the mountains and whose place to sleep is in the garage. In any case, a mild shampoo designed specifically for dogs should always be used, as it can damage their fur or skin.

In addition, special attention should be paid to their ears, as their drooping shape means they are potential nests for infection (ear infections, etc.) as soon as dirt or moisture accumulates on them. Therefore, it is important to check and clean them weekly. At the same time, it is important to get used to drying them after a long time in a humid environment, and even more so after swimming in a swamp, lake or stream…

The weekly maintenance session is also an opportunity to examine and, if required, quickly clean the area around the eyes with a damp cloth, again to avoid infections that would be triggered by a deposit of dirt.

As in any dog, oral hygiene is also important. Therefore, the Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer you should brush your teeth at least once a week, using a toothpaste intended for canine use. This will reduce the deposit of dental plaque., that can cause bad breath, cavities and other diseases by turning into tartar.

In addition, despite what her fairly active lifestyle might have us believe, this dog needs to have its claws trimmed by hand fairly regularly. This is because they are particularly strong and difficult to wear.. On average, must be trimmed every 2 or 3 weeks, but if they are not cut every 2 or 3 weeks, it is enough to stretch your ear when walking on hard ground: if then you hear a kind of click with each step, it is because they have become too long and it is time to cut them. Otherwise, not only could it be difficult for him to walk, but you could also be injured if they broke.

Last but not least, it is recommended to examine it (fur, ears, pads…) after every hunting session or a long stay in the wild, to detect possible cuts or scratches, parasites, thorns…

As in all races, learn how to care for a Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer from a professional (hairdresser or vet) it is the best way to take care of it without risk of damaging or injuring it. It is advisable to accustom him to these different manipulations from a very young age, so that they become a moment of shared pleasure, and not in a task that I try to avoid.

From the first references to its subject dating from the 13th century, the Hungarian Pointer was introduced as a hunting dog, more precisely like a pointing dog. Already at that time, as well as in later centuries, including current, his mission was to find the game and point the hunter in the direction of it. Versatile, is capable of hunting in all terrains (forests, plains, mountains…) and is not afraid of cold or water. Therefore, used to remove various game pieces, either nude or feathered, usually working alone or possibly with a partner, but rarely in a group.

Even today, hunting is the main mission of the Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer, and its qualities are recognized in particular by hunters in Central Europe and Great Britain, where it is present in large numbers.

The qualities it mobilizes for hunting (style, obedience, independence…) they also allow you to shine in various canine sports disciplines, either in the crawl, obedience or agility.

The Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer it is also increasingly present in homes as a simple companion dog. Their attachment and energy can be very beneficial to their owners' morale., and the most athletic find in him a companion of choice for their long excursions in nature. In any case, your need for exercise is quite high, which makes it unsuitable for a very sedentary person, for example.

His protective side also makes him a good watchdog, that spares no effort to put intruders to flight, although not as imposing as other races.

The price of a puppy Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer is generally between 600 and 800 EUR, without any significant price difference between males and females.

Whatever the location, and as for all races, the amount requested depends on the more or less prestigious ancestry from which the animal comes, as well as the reputation of the offspring from which it comes. Its intrinsic characteristics are, However, the main factor to take into account, which explains that prices within the same litter can vary enormously; individuals closest to the standard and with the best character traits are necessarily more expensive than others.

Coexistence is important that you have with your new friend. Before considering the acquisition of a dog of the breed “Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer” you know certain factors. Not all breeds of dogs are apt to live in an apartment, You must take into account their character, their need for exercise, their interaction with other pets, your care and if you have young children, their level of tolerance towards them.

Hungarian Wire haired Pointing Dog

Hungarian Pointer “wire-haired” – Julius-K9®

• CLASSIFICATION FCI: 57
• Group 7: Pointing Dogs.
• Section 1: Continental Pointing Dogs. 1.1: Braque Type. With working trial.

Federations:

• – FCI – Group 7: Pointing Dogs. – Section 1: Continental Pointing Dogs. 1.1: Braque Type ⓘ
• – AKC – Group 1 (Sports) ⓘ
• – CKC – Group 1 (Sports) ⓘ
• – ​KC – Gun Dog ⓘ
• – NZKC – Gun Dog Group ⓘ
• – UKC – Gun Dog Group ⓘ

FCI – “Hungarian Wire-haired Pointer”

1. Wirehaired Vizsla, Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla, Drótszőrű magyar vizsla (English).
2. (en hongrois : drótszőrű magyar vizsla), Vizsla à Poil Dur (French).
3. (ungarisch Drótszőrű magyar vizsla), Drahthaar Vizsla (German).
4. (em húngaro: drótszőrű magyar vizsla) (Portuguese).
5. Vizsla húngaro de capa alambrada (Spanish).