The HWV as a Gundog

The Hungarian Wire-Haired Vizsla (HWV) is first and foremost a gundog and it belongs to the subgroup: Hunt, Point and Retrieve (HPR).  The HWV is a relatively new breed and was developed in its home country of Hungary in the early 1900’s. The first litter was bred in the UK in 1992.

What Does “HPR” Mean for Owners?

All breeds in the HPR subgroup hunt to locate game by using the wind – running straight into the wind is the perfect hunting scenario for these dogs.  The HWV have excellent noses, they will work on any open ground and happily tackle thick cover including brambles and thorn bushes.  Often identifying game that the handler had no idea was even there!  When game has been found, the dog will point it and retrieve it back to the handler once it has been shot.  Hunting, pointing and retrieving are all natural instincts that you will see your puppy performing with very little encouragement.

The HWV as a Pet

There are a growing number of people who are buying HWVs as pets and do not want to work them as a gun dog.  These wonderful dogs make excellent family companions, but if you are thinking of buying an HWV as a pet, please do be aware that your puppy’s natural instincts will come to the fore at some point.  Having knowledge of what your dog is bred to do, and its natural aptitude for working, is a good basis for a long and happy life together.