While generally healthy, the Wirehaired Vizsla is susceptible to certain health issues that affect many breeds. Responsible breeders can utilize both Clinical Screening & DNA tests available to ensure the puppies they produce are healthy.

DNA Tests
DNA tests can show whether an individual dog is genetically clear (no copies of the disease gene), a carrier (one copy of the disease gene) or affected (two copies of the disease gene) for a particular condition or disease. This is very useful information for breeders and breeding advice will vary according to the disease/condition in question. By utilizing current DNA testing puppies can effectively be cleared by parentage if both Sire & Dam are found to be genetically clear. DNA testing available for diseases that affect the Wirehaired Vizsla:

Canine Hyperuricosuria (HUU)
Hyperuricosuria means elevated levels of uric acid in the urine. This trait predisposes dogs to form stones in their bladders or sometimes kidneys. These stones often must be removed surgically and can be difficult to treat. Hyperuricosuria is inherited as a simple autosomal recessive trait. A DNA test for this specific mutation can determine if dogs are normal or if they carry one or two copies of the mutation. Dogs that carry two copies of the mutation will be affected and susceptible to develop bladder/kidney stones. Samples are obtained by non invasive means using a buccal swab (cheek swab). For more information about DNA testing through University of California, Davis click HERE.

Clinical Screening tests are used to determine inherited disorders, caused by a number of different genes or environmental factors. Dogs are tested for these conditions by your local Veterinarian or a Veterinarian Specialist. The most common clinical screening tests used by breeders in conditions that may exist in the Wirehaired Vizsla:

  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Sub Aorta Stenosis
  • Glaucoma
  • Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
  • Persistent Pupillary Membrane
  • Cataracts

Other conditions that may affect Wirehaired Vizslas and common in many breeds:

  • Entropion
  • Ectropion
  • Distichiasis
  • Epilepsy
  • Autoimmune Diseases
  • Hypothyroidism​
  • Cancer

Please visit the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals for more information about these conditions.