Vizsla vs German Shorthaired Pointer: Differences

Vizsla vs German shorthaired pointer? Both are short-coated pointing breeds built for bird hunting, so they share a lot. The quickest way to tell them apart is color: the vizsla comes only in a solid rusty red, while the German shorthaired pointer (GSP) comes in liver, black and white combinations, often ticked or spotted. The GSP is also slightly taller, and the vizsla is the older breed.

Below is a side-by-side table, how each dog looks and works in the field, which suits your home, and answers to common questions. Hunt behind a red dog? Browse our vizsla shirts, or see our German shorthaired pointer shirts.

Vizsla vs German shorthaired pointer at a glance

Size, color and lifespan figures follow A-Z Animals (Vizsla vs German Shorthaired Pointer); breed descriptions follow the AKC breed pages for the vizsla and the German shorthaired pointer.

How to tell a vizsla from a GSP

• Color: this settles it most of the time. The vizsla "only comes in a solid, unique rusty red-brown color," while the GSP comes in black, white, brown and spotted coats.
• Height: the differences "are subtle and often overlap," but the GSP grows slightly taller.
• Build: both have short coats, floppy ears and a classic point with one paw lifted and the tail straight, so do not rely on shape alone.

Vizsla vs GSP in the field

The AKC calls the vizsla "a versatile, red-coated gundog built for long days in the field," long "the pride of Hungarian sportsmen." It describes the GSP as "an enthusiastic gundog of all trades who thrives on vigorous exercise," and notes that GSP owners call it the "perfect pointer."

In practice, both breeds point and retrieve upland birds like pheasant, and both are used by hunters who want one dog for a mix of game. Training, breeding lines and time in the field matter more than breed when it comes to how a single dog hunts.

Should I get a vizsla or a GSP?

Both breeds need a lot of exercise. A-Z Animals notes that both "may exhibit destructive behaviors if left alone without being exercised properly." It also says the vizsla tends to need more attention and play, while a GSP is more likely to settle with the family after a hard day. Ask yourself:

• Do you want a dog that loves extra play time? The vizsla "needs to be entertained more" than the GSP.
• Do you hunt a wide mix of game? The GSP's "gundog of all trades" reputation fits that well.
• Can you give daily running time? If not, neither breed is a good match.

Talk to breeders and local hunting dog clubs and spend time with adult dogs from field lines before you decide.

Gear for pointing dog hunters

Our vizsla and GSP shirts show a pointing dog with a pheasant on blaze orange or camo, with your dog's name printed on the design. Styles include hoodies, long sleeve shirts and zip-up hoodies; check each product page for the exact options and sizes. For the rest of your kit, read what to wear pheasant hunting, or compare another bird dog pair in English setter vs Llewellin setter.

FAQ

Should I get a vizsla or a GSP?

Both are active pointing breeds. Pick the vizsla if you want a close, people-focused red dog; pick the GSP if you want an all-round gundog that may settle more easily at home. Either needs daily exercise.

Are German shorthaired pointers easier than vizslas?

Both are highly trainable and eager to please. The vizsla tends to need more attention and play, so some owners find a GSP easier day to day.

What is the difference between a vizsla and a German shorthaired pointer?

Color is the main clue: vizslas are solid rusty red, GSPs are liver, black and white combinations. GSPs are slightly taller, and the vizsla is the older breed, from Hungary.

What is the downside of owning a vizsla?

Vizslas need a lot of exercise and company. Without enough of both, they can become bored and destructive.