Should You Get a Male or Female Vizsla?

“Should we get a boy or a girl?” is one of the most common questions I hear from families reserving a puppy. Both make wonderful companions, and the individual puppy matters more than its sex. Still, there are some general differences worth knowing. Here’s what I’ve seen over more than twenty years of living with and breeding Vizslas.

Are male Vizslas bigger than females?

Yes, usually. Males typically stand 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder and females 21 to 23 inches. Males also tend to carry more muscle and weight, often landing toward the upper end of the breed’s roughly 45- to 65-pound range, while females are generally lighter and more refined. If size matters for your car, home or the people who’ll handle the dog, it’s worth considering.

Are male Vizslas more affectionate?

Many owners say so. In our experience, male Vizslas often wear their hearts on their sleeves: they’re goofy, cuddly and tend to stay puppyish a little longer. Females are just as loving but can be a bit more independent about how and when they show it. Of course, you’ll find plenty of exceptions both ways.

Which is easier to train?

Females often mature a little earlier, which can make them seem more focused in early training. Males may take longer to settle but are typically eager to please once they do. Both respond best to short, positive sessions, and both are intelligent enough to learn quickly. Consistency matters far more than sex.

Which is better for hunting?

Both. Male and female Vizslas from hunting and field-trial lines can be excellent in the field. Some hunters prefer a female for her size and focus; others prefer a male’s stamina and drive. Tell us how you hunt and we’ll talk through the puppies in a litter. See are Vizslas good hunting dogs? for more.

Which is better with kids?

Either can be wonderful with children. A larger, bouncier young male may be a bit much for toddlers during adolescence, while a female may be a little calmer sooner. With supervision and training, both usually become gentle family dogs.

What if you already have a dog?

If you have another dog, many trainers suggest pairing opposite sexes, as same-sex pairs sometimes have more friction as they mature. This isn’t a hard rule, and plenty of same-sex pairs get along beautifully, but it’s worth considering. Introduce dogs gradually and on neutral ground if possible.

What about spaying and neutering?

Talk with your vet about the right timing for your dog. Females will come into heat roughly twice a year if not spayed, which requires management. Intact males may be more likely to roam or mark. Your vet can explain the health considerations for your individual dog.

Does the individual puppy matter more?

Absolutely. Within any litter there’s a range of personalities: bold and busy, calm and watchful, and everything between. A laid-back male and a high-drive female can easily be the opposite of the stereotypes. When you contact us, tell us about your household and what you’re hoping for, and we’ll share what we’ve seen of each puppy.

Does availability affect the choice?

Yes. The mix of males and females varies from litter to litter — one recent litter had seven boys and two girls, and Lily’s next litter with Rocky is due about October 10, 2026. If you have a strong preference, reserving early gives you the most choice. Our Available litters page shows what’s current.

What do our families say?

We’ve placed wonderful boys and girls alike. One owner has two girls, Sunny Lou and Charlie, and describes them as “beyond beautiful, extremely smart, healthy.” Another family’s boy, Ruger, keeps them busy with his favorite game of keep-away. Read more on our Our Story page.

So which should you choose?

If you have a strong preference for size, or a current dog to match, let that guide you. Otherwise, stay open — the right puppy for your family may not be the one you expected. Visit if you can and meet the litter in person.

Is there a difference in energy level?

Both sexes are high-energy, athletic dogs that need at least an hour of vigorous exercise a day as adults. Some owners find young males a little more boisterous during adolescence, while females may settle into calmer routines sooner. In practice, the difference between individual puppies is far larger than any difference between the sexes. If energy level is a concern, tell us about your lifestyle and we’ll point you toward a puppy that has shown the temperament you’re looking for. Our exercise guide explains what to expect at each age.

Talk to us

Have questions about a specific litter? Call (361) 781-2663 or contact us. We’re available every day from 8:00 am to 8:30 pm, and our FAQ answers many common questions about reserving a puppy.