Introduction

In Hungary in the 1930’s an all-round hunting dog that was more robust, in both coat and bone, than the smooth Hungarian Vizsla, was needed and to produce this hardier type a brown German Wirehaired Pointer was selected. The Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla was the result of this cross, the aim of which was to produce dogs who could work in the harsh Hungarian winters and in dense undergrowth. It is thought, and is very possibly true, that other breeds including the Pudelpointer, Red Setter and even Bloodhound might have been used in past breeding, but there is no absolute proof. Whatever its history the breed today is one that is both loyal and intelligent, and a truly versatile gundog.

The Hungarians, before and during the second world war, worked their dogs solely for feeding themselves and their families, so the dog needed to work quite close to the gun, think of it as a ‘one man, one gun, one dog’ arrangement, and the last thing needed was a dog too far away, on point, to get to for the shot. This has resulted in the HWV being the dog who works closest to its handler, not ranging a great distance and has developed as a very close bond between man and dog.As a shooting dog it will Hunt Point and Retrieve instinctively, will work on game birds (pheasant, grouse, partridge, snipe, woodcock), water fowling, rabbit and hare, fox, as well as deer stalking. It is just as happy on low lying sugar beet fields as it is on the high moors of Yorkshire and Scotland. It is also an ideal breed to work under a hawk. It is also known for its work in water, being a strong swimmer, is said to be able to follow a scent across moving water or up and down stream.For a working gundog of this ability it will come as no surprise that the build, strength and conformation is crucial to its working ability. The breed standard is built around the attributes needed, the nose for scenting, the strong jaw and neck for carrying heavy retrieves, the gait and reach for quartering in all terrains, tight feet to prevent damage, even smooth ears so as not to get caught up in thorns.

The HWV can use its attributes in many other ways, its ‘Hunt, Point, Retrieve’ abilities also lends itself to many other activities. Today they can be found taking part in just about all working dog disciplines, such as tracking and scent work, mantrailing and rescue work. Take a look at the ‘Other Activities’ (under construction) working page for some inspiration. Take a look at the Kennel Club Events and Activities page for more information.

Photo Debby & Ian Wearing
Photo Debby & Ian Wearing
Photo Georgina Buchan

Training your HWV

For those of you who have an interest in understanding the breed, training or competing in Working Tests or Field Trials, the HWVA run training days, experience days, Working Tests and Field Trials.Many other HPR breeds also put on similar events, and will usually welcome the HWV and their owners.  All HPR Clubs have a website and advertise their regular or one-off training days.  There are also many gundog clubs across the country who have regular or individual training days.  There are many excellent private trainers available.  It can also be a good idea to talk to your local obedience training club who may be able to help you find some local gundog training.

All events will be announced on the website and Facebook page first, keep a look out!

The HWVA Committee and the Working Secretary are always happy to help and advise in all aspects of working the Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla. Please contact us via email.

Photo Georgina Buchan

Working Events 2023

Dates for your Diary.
Saturday 16th December ALL-AGED Field Trial, Kent
Judges Helen Evans and Christine Carpenter
 
Thursday 25th January NOVICE Field Trial Haverholme, Lincs
Judges Maureen Nixon and Rory Major
 
Thursday 18th January   OPEN field Trail  Upton Pyne, Devon
Judges Steve Chant and Howard Kirby
 
March  Grouse Experience and Test if ground available.
 
Sunday 8th September 2024 Gundog Working Test at Sholford Farm, Taunton.
 
 
 
Photo by Sharon Newman

Hunt Point Retrieve Field Trial Association (HPRFTA)

Assocation of the HPR Field Trial Clubs

Today, the core objectives of the HPRFTA are much the same as they were when it was originally formed; a) To encourage and promote discussion between subscribing Clubs and Societies on subjects of common interest concerning Field Trials. b) To present the Kennel Club a united viewpoint of HPR Field Trial matters.

The HWVA renewed its membership of the Hunt Point Retrieve Field Trial Association last year giving us a voice, with other member breed and gundog clubs, to give a united voice to the Kennel Club on Field Trial matters. 

If you have any Field Trial matters you would like discussed, please contact the HWVA Working sub-committee.

The Field Trial secretary attends the HPRFTA Meetings and AGM, to bring forward your submissions and to represent the interests of the HWVA working members.

Please take a look at the HPRFTA website to see their remit , and how we work together for the benefit of all.

The HPRFTA will be putting on another Management of a Field Trial (practical) training day in the Autumn, and another conference weekend for Field Trial Secretaries, Judges and competitors in February 2024, including Open Forum, Judging seminar and the ‘J’ regs Examination.(TBC)

If you have any interest in Field Trialling, want to come to watch or help out, please email the Field Trial Secretary.

There may be some Field Trial people who might be interested in becoming a judge in the future, we, along with the HPRFTA are more than happy to help and advise. The HWVA currently do not have any prospective judges to sponsor, if you are interested, please email the Field Trial Secretary.

May 2022

The HWVA members recently were asked to give opinion, via a survey by the HPRFTA, on the recent changes to the Water Regulations at Field Trials. The results are in, and will be used when this matter is re-examined by the Kennel Club in due course.

Thank you all for your contribution.