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Vizsla vs Weimaraner is a decision many of us weigh up when narrowing down a potential puppy breed. And it makes sense, because in many ways they are very similar. They have floppy ears, long noses, a slim build, inquisitive and intelligent natures, and more energy than you can shake a squirrel at. Besides their different colored coats, it can be hard to actually tell a Vizsla and Weimaraner apart. But if you see them side by side you’ll find that the tan Vizsla is slightly shorter than her silver Weimaraner cousin, and potentially a little easier to handle and maybe even live with.

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Vizsla vs Weimaraner Size

The Weimaraner is the bigger of the two dogs, hitting heights of around 25-27 inches if male, and 23-25 inches if female.

Vizlas on the other hand, are around 22-24 inches tall if male, and 21-23 inches if female.

As for the weight of these two dogs, the Weimaraner is the heaviest at 70-90 pounds if male, and 55-75 pounds if female.

The Vizla is significantly lighter at 55-60 pounds if male, and 45-55 pounds if female.

It’s important to consider the size and weight of each breed.

The bigger the breed the more space they will need to stretch their legs.

Large dogs also have a tendency to accidentally injure young children or small pets due to their size.

Such as bumping into a toddler and knocking them over.

If you have small children within your family, it may be worth considering opting for the smaller and lighter Vizsla.

Weimaraner vs Vizsla Temperament

Despite their similar looks and backgrounds as hunting dogs, the temperaments of these two breeds are quite different.

Weimaraner Temperament

The Weimaraner has a tendency to be very stubborn, and they have the potential to develop bad habits.

They can also tend to have a strong prey drive due to their background as hunting dogs.

This could mean they could chase and attack other neighborhood animals such as cats.

It’s recommended to only take this dog off the leash where you know it is safe to do so.

Many Weimaraners have a strong tendency to chew, especially if they are bored or have excess energy.

In severe cases, they can chew things which may injure their mouths such as rocks.

Keeping them exercised and training out the behavior can help with this.

Weimaraners can be quite hard to handle for the inexperienced dog owner due to these issues.

Vizsla Temperament

As for the Vizsla, they are the easier of the two breeds to handle.

They are affectionately known as “Velcro Dogs” due to their desire to stick close to their owner at all times.

They love to sit on your lap!

Due to this need to be close however, they are notorious for suffering from separation anxiety.

This can result in negative and destructive behaviors if they are left alone for too long.

They tend to be gentle and sensitive, but some still hold a stubborn side, though to a lesser degree than the Weimaraner.

As the Viszla also has a background as a hunting dog, they may also have a strong prey drive like the Weimaraner.

Provided they are trained and socialized well, they can be very good with other dogs and people.

The Weimaraner is definitely the harder breed to deal with out of these two.

They require an experienced and no-nonsense owner to quell any potentially bad behaviors before they become problems.

Vizslas tend to be a little easier to handle, and therefore can be a better choice for those who have less experience.

Weimaraner vs Vizsla Grooming

An area in which these breeds are very similar is in their grooming requirements.

Both do well with just a weekly brush to remove any dead hair.

However, both of these breeds are playful and prone to getting themselves dirty!

In those cases, a lukewarm bath with dog soap can get them back to their best.

They both shed seasonally and may require a little more brushing during these times to keep on top of it.

However, with their short coats, it isn’t too hard to handle.

For both breeds, it’s important to keep on top of trimming their nails.

Overly-long nails can cause a lot of discomfort, which is especially bad for such energetic breeds.

Dental health is just as important, and you should brush their teeth regularly.

Weimaraner vs Vizsla Health Issues

Both of these breeds sadly have the potential to develop serious and debilitating health issues.

Bloat

Both breeds, unfortunately, are predisposed to developing a very serious condition known as Bloat.

This is where the stomach fills with gas and then twists, blocking proper blood flow around the body.

It has a rapid onset and can be fatal in just a few hours.

It’s very important to research the early symptoms of Bloat if you own a breed at risk.

If they experience Bloat, they will need attention from a Vet as soon as possible to survive.

Weimaraners are at a higher risk of developing Bloat than Vizslas.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip Dysplasia is also an issue within each breed.

This is a developmental disorder of the hip that causes arthritis from a young age.

According to a study that took place in 2013, rates of Hip Dysplasia are slowly lessening within the Weimaraner breed.

Other Issues

Eye issues can also be a problem within both breeds, such as cataracts.

Both breeds can also suffer from problems with their thyroid, such as Hypothyroidism.

This carries with it a variety of symptoms such as hair loss, weight gain, and lethargy.

Vizslas in particular can suffer from Epilepsy.

Like humans, this can cause seizures and may need lifetime medication.

   

The Weimaraner and the Vizsla share a lot of potential health issues.

These may require a lot of care from you and potentially expensive vet bills.

Bloat requires you to know the early symptoms of the condition, and what to do if they occur.

Epileptic dogs need an owner who can keep them safe during a fit, and care for them afterward.

Vizsla’s are generally believed to be the healthier of the two breeds.

Whichever you go for it is very important that you research their potential health issues so you can be ready and able if they ever occur.

Weimaraner vs Vizsla Exercise & Training

Both the Vizsla and the Weimaraner are very, very energetic breeds.

This is something you will have to be prepared for whichever breed you go for!

On top of daily walks, they will require at least 30 minutes to an hour of strenuous exercise.

This means being able to run and play.

This could be either off the leash if you have a secure area for them to play, or having them join you on a jog.

As for training, they were both bred to be obedient and quickly learn new commands.

However, they still can be stubborn if they have no interest in what they are being taught.