Compare

Vizsla vs Weimaraner

Both are short-coated, high-drive hunting breeds for athletic owners; the Vizsla is smaller and softer, the Weimaraner larger and more strong-willed.

Vizsla profileWeimaraner profile

Verdict

The Vizsla and the Weimaraner are short-coated sporting dogs with top energy scores, a need for 90 minutes or more of exercise and a strong attachment to their people. Neither suits apartments or an owner who works long hours, and both do best with runners, hikers and hunters who are home much of the day.

Temperament and size separate them. The Vizsla is the smaller dog at 44 to 60 pounds, affectionate and sensitive, and more trainable and better with children. The Weimaraner is bigger, at up to 90 pounds, fearless and strong-willed, and its profile rates it as a poor choice for first-time owners. It also barks a little more.

Choose the Vizsla if

  • You want a close, affectionate shadow of a hunting partner
  • You want the more trainable of the two
  • Your household includes children
  • You can be home most of the day

Choose the Weimaraner if

  • You are experienced and want a larger, fearless running partner
  • You can provide steady training and a secure yard
  • You accept a strong will and a dog of up to 90 pounds
  • You can supply hours of exercise and company

Side by side

Vizsla Weimaraner
AKC group Sporting Group Sporting Group
Size class Medium Large
Typical weight 44 to 60 lb 55 to 90 lb
Height 21 to 24 in at the shoulder 23 to 27 in at the shoulder
Typical lifespan 12 to 14 years 10 to 13 years
AKC popularity, 2025 36 of 202 54 of 202
Shedding Moderate Moderate
Grooming needs Minimal Minimal
Energy Very high Very high
Trainability Easy Average
Barking Seldom barks Barks sometimes
With children Very good Good with supervision
Apartment living Poor Poor
First-time owners Challenging Experienced owners only
Heat tolerance Average Average
Cold tolerance Below average Below average
Temperament
  • affectionate
  • energetic
  • sensitive
  • loyal
  • alert
  • fearless
  • devoted
  • strong-willed
Health concerns to know about
  • hip dysplasia
  • epilepsy
  • hypothyroidism
  • certain cancers
  • allergies
  • bloat
  • hip dysplasia
  • hypothyroidism
  • immune-mediated disease
  • eye and eyelid conditions
Suits
  • runners and hikers
  • hunters
  • owners home most of the day
  • experienced owners
  • hunters and runners
  • people who are home much of the day

Facts and ratings come from each breed's profile. They describe a breed as a whole, and individual dogs vary, so meet the dog before you choose.

Last reviewed November 8, 2026

In the index now