Read About Vizsla

Vizsla's are intelligent and affectionate dogs. Here's everything you need to know about this dog breed.

Quick Vizsla Summary:

1. Size:

   Medium Dog Breed

2. Weight:

   40-60 lbs

3. Coat:

   Short Haired

4. Shedding:

   Medium Shedding

5. Temperament:

   Gentle

6. Obedience:

   Moderate Obedience

7. Ease of Training:

   Easy to Train

8. Way with Children:

   Good with Children

Vizsla - Facts

1. AKC Group/Date Admitted:

   Sporting;1960

2. Size & Weight:

   26-40 inches tall, 40-60 lbs

3. Coat:

   Vizsla's have short, thick and smooth coats with no wooly undercoat.

4. Head & Muzzle:

   They have a lean and muscular head with a somewhat wide skull. The muzzle is deep and square shaped. Their ears are long, thin and soft hanging to their cheeks.

5. Body:

   Vizsla's have strong bodies with moderately broad and deep chests. They have long and wide shoulder blades and small round feet.

6. Colors:

   According to the AKC the color should be different shades of solid golden rust.

7. Life Expectancy:

   12-15 yrs.

8. Popularity:

   In a 2005 popularity ranking by the AKC they were ranked 44 out of 154 breeds.

9. Habitat:

   The Vizsla is not suited to apartment life. They do better with a good sized yard where they can run and play.

Vizsla - Origins

1. Country of Origin:

   Hungary

2. Historical Information:

   This breed originated in Hungary and became nearly extinct after World War II. After the Russians invaded Hungary the Hungarians feared that they would exterminate the breed as they were a sign of aristocracy. They were smuggled into Austria and the United States.

Vizsla - Defining Characteristics

1. Temperament:

   Vizsla's are loving and gentle but have a mind of their own. However, they take well to training.

2. Behavior:

   They are easily excitable and very energetic. Obedience training is a must or these dogs may become unmanageable.

3. Habits:

   Vizsla's love to hunt and track.

Vizsla - Concerns

1. Health Issues:

   They are prone to hip dysplasia.

2. Exercise Needs:

   Vizsla's require regular exercise. They can become destructive indoors if they are not provided with sufficient exercise. They need a safe place to run free without a leash. This is the reason a house with a good sized yard is best.

3. Grooming Needs:

   They require minimal grooming. Brush your Vizsla with a firm bristle brush and use a dry shampoo on occasion. Bathe then with a mild soap only when necessary. It is also important to keep their nails trimmed.

4. Travel Needs:

   For the safety of yourself as well as your Vizsla, using a safety belt harness is best while traveling in the car. This will keep him comfortable while preventing him from roaming around the car possibly causing injury to himself or others.

5. Getting Along With Other Pets and Children:

   Vizsla are generally good with other dogs and will do fine with cats they are raised with. They are, however, hunting dogs and should not be with small animals such as hamsters, gerbils, guinea pigs, etc.

Vizsla -- How to Choose

1. What to Look for in a Healthy Puppy:

   Look for bright and clear eyes, healthy coat and skin and clean ears that are free of parasites.

2. What You Will Need For A New Puppy:

   Things to have on hand for your new puppy are: a good puppy food, a brush for grooming, toys and a crate or kennel.

3. Puppy-proofing your house:

   Keep all small objects out of reach.

4. How to make your new puppy feel at home:

   Your new puppy may seem shy and intimidated at first. Provide them with a quiet and comfortable place to sleep. Let them explore their new surroundings and get familiar with their new home. Use interactive dog toys to play with your new puppy so you can get to know each other. With lots of love and interaction your new puppy will feel at home in no time.