Brittany vs Wirehaired Vizsla

Choosing between Brittany and Wirehaired Vizsla? These two are closely matched on size and energy, so your decision comes down to the finer points — grooming, shedding, trainability and how each fits your household. Below we break down exactly how the two breeds compare on the things that shape daily life with a dog, so you can see which one is the better fit for your home, family and routine.

Brittany vs Wirehaired Vizsla: full comparison

TraitBrittanyWirehaired Vizsla
SizeMediumMedium
Energy levelVery HighVery High
TrainabilityVery HighVery High
FriendlinessVery HighVery High
Good with childrenVery HighVery High
Grooming needsMediumLow
SheddingMediumLow
BarkingLowLow
ProtectivenessLowLow
AdaptabilityHighHigh
Typical lifespan14 years14 years
HypoallergenicNoNo

Size and living space

The Brittany is a medium-sized dog that settles into most homes, although a yard makes life easier. By comparison, the Wirehaired Vizsla is a medium-sized dog that settles into most homes, although a yard makes life easier. Because they are a similar size, neither has a clear space advantage — both will suit the same kind of home.

Exercise and energy needs

The Brittany is a true athlete that needs intense daily exercise and a job to do, or it will get restless. The Wirehaired Vizsla is a true athlete that needs intense daily exercise and a job to do, or it will get restless. Their exercise needs are broadly the same, so this is unlikely to be a deciding factor.

Grooming and shedding

The Brittany needs regular brushing to stay in good condition and sheds moderately, with heavier blowouts as the seasons turn. The Wirehaired Vizsla needs only light grooming, a brush once or twice a week and drops very little hair. If low upkeep matters to you, factor this in — the difference adds up over a dog's lifetime.

Temperament, training and family life

The Brittany is highly intelligent and learns new commands remarkably fast, speaks up only now and then and is renowned for its patience and gentleness with children. The Wirehaired Vizsla is highly intelligent and learns new commands remarkably fast, speaks up only now and then and is renowned for its patience and gentleness with children. On guarding instinct, Brittany shows limited protectiveness and is friendly to callers, whereas Wirehaired Vizsla shows limited protectiveness and is friendly to callers.

Which is better for…

Which should you choose?

Choose the Brittany if you simply prefer the breed — it's very closely matched with the Wirehaired Vizsla on temperament, size and care.

Choose the Wirehaired Vizsla if you prefer lower grooming upkeep or you want less shedding around the home.

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Frequently asked questions

Is the Brittany or the Wirehaired Vizsla better for families with children?
Both the Brittany and the Wirehaired Vizsla are considered good with children when properly socialized and supervised.
Which sheds more, the Brittany or the Wirehaired Vizsla?
The Brittany sheds more than the Wirehaired Vizsla. If shedding is a concern, the Wirehaired Vizsla is the lower-maintenance choice.
Which is easier to train, the Brittany or the Wirehaired Vizsla?
Both breeds have comparable trainability. Consistency and positive reinforcement work well for each.
Is Brittany or Wirehaired Vizsla bigger?
Brittany and Wirehaired Vizsla are a similar size (Medium).
Which barks more, Brittany or Wirehaired Vizsla?
Both bark a similar amount (low).
Which is better for apartment living, Brittany or Wirehaired Vizsla?
For apartment or apartment living, Brittany and Wirehaired Vizsla are an even match — either can work well.

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