Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla Association
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  • Archives
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      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2019
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2018
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2017
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2016
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2015
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2014-15
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2013-14
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2012-13
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2011-12
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2010-11
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2009-10
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2008-9
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2007-8
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2006-7
      • HWVA Annual Award Winners 2005-6
    • Working Archive
      • Working events results 2021
      • Working events results 2020
      • Working events results 2019
      • Working events results 2018
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      • Working events results 2016
      • Working events results 2015
      • Working events results 2014
      • HWVA Working Test 2014
      • Training day June 2014
      • Working events results 2013
      • Working events results 2012
      • Working events results 2011
      • Working events results 2010
      • Working events results 2009
      • Working events results 2007
      • Working events results 2006

Working

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.

Photo Debby & Ian Wearing

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.

Photo Debby & Ian Wearing

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.

Photo Georgina Buchan

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.

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.

Photo Georgina Buchan

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 at working@hwva.org.uk

 

A Guide to Gundog Commands

The HWVA

  • Membership - Why join the HWVA?
  • Committee
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  • Rehoming
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  • HWVA members code of conduct (2021)
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  • Data Protection Statement
  • Working Events 2021

Latest News

  • HWVA Gundog Working Test – NEW DATE
  • HWVA Grouse Experience Day & Grouse Pointing Test Weekend – 20/21 August 2022
  • HWVA Training Day Reports
  • HPRFTA
  • HWVA Championship & Open Shows Results

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