VIZSLA
APPEARANCE
The Vizsla is large in size, and has a thoughtful and intelligent expression. He has a study, athletic build, and a close fitting, smooth coat. The coloring of the Vizsla is golden rust. These dogs weigh in at around 45-55 pounds for females, and 55-65 pounds for males. The height of the Vizsla is around 20-23 inches for females, and 22-25 inches for males.
PERSONALITY
Alert, responsive, and gentle, the Vizsla is a dog with great stamina, plenty of energy, and a friendly attitude. His name literally translates to ‘alert and responsive’ in Hungarian. These are adaptable dogs, and are well suited to both experienced and inexperienced dog owners. These dogs do thrive on the attention, interaction, and companionship of their owners, and some may find them quite clingy.
TRAINING
The Vizsla is a quick learner and an intelligent dog, so training shouldn’t prove too much of a challenge. He is eager to please and responsive, faring well in obedience training. He can be easily distracted and independent, so a firm yet very positive method is important when training.
EXERCISE
This is not the right choice for those with little time to dedicate to a pet. The Vizsla has high energy levels, and does need a good amount of exercise, preferably interactive play and activity. He is quick and agile, which means that a secure and safe area must be provided for play and exercise if he is not on a leash. The Vizsla can be a chewer, especially when bored, so appropriate toys are a good idea. Also, bear in mind that without the necessary physical and mental stimulation and interaction that he needs he can get bored, and this can lead to destructive behavior.
SOCIALIZATION
In order to promote a stable and confident temperament early socialization is advisable. The Vizsla will generally bark to raise an alarm, and can make effective watchdogs. Their size can also act as a deterrent for potential intruders. These dogs get along fine with strangers and other animals, as well as with children. The Vizsla is an ideal pet for an active owner with the time to dedicate to a loving pet.
LIVING CONDITIONS
Vizslas can live in practically any environment as long as they have enough exercise, a warm, dry place to stay with lots of love and attention. This breed loves warmth as manifested in its frequent basking in the sun.
GROOMING
A Vizsla’s beautiful and soft coat requires little maintenance. It is basically a clean dog with very little odor. However, they do shed but it can be controlled by rubbing the dog with a non-cotton sweater to pick up loose hairs.
HEALTH ISSUES
Life expectancy: 11 - 14 years. Vizslas are considered an extremely healthy breed although some are prone to skin and/or food allergies. They are also susceptible to hip dysplasia. Hemophilia, Von Willebrand’s Disease, tail defects and epilepsy are the less common genetic diseases in Vizslas. Extreme care should be taken with the use of anesthesia during surgery as this breed is particularly sensitive to this drug.
HISTORY
Originating from Hungary, the Vizsla has a long history and was once a popular hunting dog with nomadic tribes. A hunter of game birds and hares, the Vizsla did not become widely known until after the Second World War. The breed was registered with the AKC in 1960.
