Vizsla Dog Breed: Characteristics, Facts, Training, Diet, and Names

The red-coated gundog, Vizsla is a perfect dog for the field. A vizsla is a loving dog and is known to be a great companion. Originating in Hungary, these are the sporting dogs which were created to work as a pointer and a retriever. He is a natural hunter with an excellent nose.

His size is said to be its most appealing characteristics. These dogs are also very fearless and are gentle-mannered. They are highly affectionate and forms close bonds with its owners.

Vizsla Dog Breed Overview

vizsla dog breed overview

Group: Sporting
Size: Large (45-60 pounds)
Lifespan: 12-14 years
Best Suited For: Families
Temperament: Affectionate, Gentle, Loyal
Exercise Needs: High
Drooling Potential: Low
Grooming Needs: Low
Similar Breeds: Weimaraner, German Shorthaired Pointer

1. Basic Features

The Sleek golden-rust coat is a distinctive feature of Vizsla. Vizslas hate being left alone and crave their owner’s presence at most times.

They have also been given the name of “Velcro Vizsla” because of their need to attach to people.

Vizslas are great at physical activities and have wonderful stamina as well. They are hard-working dogs as well. They are the happiest when they have a job to do. Vizslas can be a hunting companion, therapy dog or a jogging partner. They are also always ready to compete and are great at it too.

2. Vizsla Origin

The Vizsla is known as the Hungarian Pointer for all the right reasons. He was developed in Hungary to be capable of both pointing and retrieving.

He is known to be descendent of the hunting dogs in Hungary. They were even then used by the warlords to hunt hares and different birds. The Vizsla is known to be hunting in a partnership with falcons. These dogs also serve as messengers during the World War 1. Vizsla was nearly dying, however, was managed to be saved from extinction.

They were also bred in Romania, Austria, Slovakia, and Serbia. Slowly, the Americans started taking interest in the breeds as well. Today, besides hunting, the dog is used for various other tasks and is doing great too.

3. The Personality of Vizsla

The Vizsla is adored for his affectionate, caring and devoted nature. They are very lively dogs. Vizsla’s are gentle but fearless.

They are protective dogs and serve as great watchdogs.

As puppies, they might not be very gentle around kids and might bite them or knock them down.

4. Vizsla Behavior

These dogs are loyal and caring. They have a good learning ability and want to be around people at all times. Vizslas are athletic and it is important to assign them a task. They become bored easily and thus can turn destructive at these times.

It is best to keep him busy in training and exercise. They can be chewers and thus providing him with a variety of chew toys should be a great idea to protect your furniture.

With the right human companionship, the Vizslas can be great dogs.

5. Exercise Requirements

running vizsla

Vizslas have a high need for exercise. They need at least two hours of exercise every day. These can be in the form of walks, runs, sports or different games. As they were bred to be active hunting dogs, they need both physical as well as mental exercise.

It is also important that he runs off-leash in a safely closed area every day. The inability to provide a proper physical exercise may lead to destructive behavior in them.

6. Diet Needs

The Vizsla is strong yet lightly built. Feeding them a balanced diet is highly recommended. The diet can be both commercial or homemade. Make sure to check the calories according to the size and weight of your dog. Vizslas are fed a diet meant for medium or large sized dogs.

A Vizsla who engages in light field activities will have different needs for calories from a slightly older Vizsla who isn’t very active. Lamb, chicken, turkey and all other lean meat should be some of the main ingredients. The bone can be great for fiber and proper bowel functions. Including fruits and vegetables should be a great option too.

7. Trainability

vizsla in water

Vizslas are eager to please. It is important to be kind while training you Vizsla. Consistency is the key to train a well-rounded dog. It is however important that you use positive reinforcement techniques and are not as harsh as the Vizsla is a sensitive dog. They can get fierce when subjected to harsh training methods. They do not handle abuse at all.

Using raise, play, treats and food rewards can be a successful method while training a Vizsla. It is recommended to begin training as soon as he is brought home.

8. Common Health Problems

Vizslas have quite a few genetic complications. They are prone to mast cell tumors. These tumors are cancerous and thus can be fatal.

They also suffer from hypothyroidism, various allergies, and other skin problems.

You should also check your dog for hip dysplasia if he has had an injury or has weight issues.

The dog is also prone to Epilepsy which causes seizures. It can, however, be managed with proper medication. In hypothyroidism, an abnormally low level of hormone is produced by the thyroid gland. Infertility might be a sign of hypothyroidism. This condition can be treated with daily medication.

Also, look out for eye disorders and blood clotting.

9. Who Should Adopt a Vizsla?

vizsla on a couch

The dog is the best when living with the family indoors and not in the yard. He requires a home with a fenced yard to play and roam independently. Vizsla is people oriented and will love you and stick by you all the time. He is a great protector too.

However, the dog requires a lot of time and exercise. Make you’re you will be able to provide them to your dog before adopting a Vizsla.

Know more about such dog breeds here!

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