The Vizsla hails from Hungary, where it was developed to hunt, point and retrieve falcons. Vizslas were also used to hunt rabbits. During World War I, these dogs served as messengers, but by the end of World War II, the breed nearly became extinct. A few Vizslas made their way to America shortly after the war, and efforts were made to replenish the breed. In 1960, the American Kennel Club recognized the vizsla as a member of the sporting group.
The Viszla is a medium-sized dog that is muscular and agile. It has long, strong legs that enable it to run at great speed. It has a smooth, short coat that needs minimal care.
Personality
The Viszla is a very active dog breed that needs a lot of exercise. It needs to be able to run or jog for long period of time on a daily basis. It is very affectionate and friendly, but can get destructive if it doesn’t get sufficient exercise. They are sweet-natured but can be hyper and stubborn. They are friendly towards other dogs and strangers.
Breed Characteristics
| Type: | Pure |
| Family: | Pointer |
| Function: | Sporting |
| Origin: | Europe |
| Preferred Climate: | Any Climate |
| Group: | Sporting |
| Life Span: | 10-14 Years |
| Nicknames: | Hungarian pointer, Hungarian shorthaired pointing dog, Magyar Vizsla, Rovidszoru Magyar vizsla |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
Vizsla Build Information
The powerful and muscular vizsla weighs 50 to 65 pounds, but the agile and quick dog can move as though it is light on its feet. The medium-sized dogs stand at a height of 21 to 24 inches at the shoulders. Their coat is short and sleek, and it is always golden rust in color. The earflaps hang downward. The tail, which is usually docked by one-third, is carried horizontally. The Viszla is a medium-sized dog that is muscular and agile. It has long, strong legs that enable it to run at great speed. It has a smooth, short coat that needs minimal care.
| Size: | Medium |
| Length (Male): | 22-27 in. |
| Length (Female): | 22-24 in. |
| Weight: | 41 – 65 lbs |
| Litter Size: | 5 – 10 Puppies |
| Tail Dock or Crop: | Docked |
Behaviour and Personality
The vizsla is full of energy. It requires ample space and opportunity for vigorous daily exercise. The hunting dog will pursue birds and wildlife, but it thrives on outdoor play and activity. Vizslas are highly intelligent and easily trained, and they are fearless and protective watchdogs. They are affectionate, playful and exuberant. Vizslas love kids, but their liveliness and enthusiasm may be too much for small children. They can get along with other dogs and cats in the household if they are raised among them from an early age. The Viszla is a very active dog breed that needs a lot of exercise. It needs to be able to run or jog for long period of time on a daily basis. It is very affectionate and friendly, but can get destructive if it doesn’t get sufficient exercise. They are sweet-natured but can be hyper and stubborn. They are friendly towards other dogs and strangers.
| Activity Level: | Very Active |
| Affection Level: | Very Affectionate |
| Aggressiveness Level: | Easy |
| Barking: | Moderate |
| Dominating or Submissive?: | Submissive |
| Energy Level: | Very Active |
| Good to Other Pets: | Moderate Friendly |
| Guardian Skills: | No |
| Independant: | No |
| Kid Friendliness: | Friendly |
Appearance
Little grooming is required in caring for a vizsla. Using a grooming mitt once a week will maintain the coat’s healthy sheen and remove dead hairs to lessen shedding in the home. Inspect the vizsla’s ears as part of this weekly grooming session, and clean them if necessary. Brush the teeth at least three times a week to prevent tartar accumulation and periodontal disease.
| Colors: | Gold, Mahogany, Red, Rust |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Low Maintenance |
| Coat Type: | Fine |
Vizsla Common Health Conditions
Vizslas live average lifespans of 10 to 14 years. Some health conditions that are known to affect vizslas include hip dysplasia, von Willebrand’s disease, hemophilia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, hemangiosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, entropion, progressive retinal atrophy and cataracts.
Vizsla Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
The vizsla, a lively hunting dog from Hungary, makes an affectionate and playful companion for active families who enjoy outdoor recreation. The vizsla originated in Hungary. The vizsla is also called a Hungarian pointer, a Hungarian shorthaired pointing dog, a Magyar Vizsla and a Rovidszoru Magyar vizsla. The vizsla is a skilled hunter and a playful and athletic companion. The vizsla stands 21 to 24 inches tall and weighs 50 to 65 pounds. Vizslas have high energy levels. Vizslas require minimal grooming. The average lifespan for a vizsla is 10 to 14 years.
| Training: | Very easy to train |
| Hunting Companion: | Yes |
| Jolly for Jogging: | Yes |
| Sighting Capabilities: | No |
| Ideal for Tracking: | Yes |
| Retrieving Skills: | Yes |
| Pointing Breed: | Yes |
| Herding Skills: | No |
| Dutiful Watchdog: | Yes |
| Security Guard Capable: | No |
| Police Performer: | No |
| Wet Water rescues: | No |
| Assist Disable Owners: | No |
| Dog Sledding: | No |
| Able to Perform Dog Carting: | No |
| Agile/Zippy: | No |
| Fun with Lure Coursing: | No |
| Obedient: | Yes |
| Possible Schutzhund Work: | No |
| Trainable for Tricks: | No |
