7 Facts About Vizslas You Probably Didn’t Know

Vizslas, the sleek, copper-toned sporting dogs hailing from Hungary, have been steadily gaining popularity worldwide. Known for their affectionate nature and vigorous exercise requirements, these dogs hold a wealth of intriguing trivia. Here are seven lesser-known facts about Vizslas that might surprise you.

1. Royalty’s Favorite

The history of the Vizsla breed traces back to the Magyar tribes of Hungary in the 10th century. These agile dogs were highly prized by the early Hungarian nobility who used them for hunting. The nobles admired Vizslas for their exceptional abilities to point and retrieve games without damaging it.

2. Nearly Extinct

Vizslas faced the threat of extinction twice. The first was during the Turkish occupation of Hungary in the 16th and 17th centuries, and the second was in World War I and II. After World War II, the breed was brought back from the brink of extinction by passionate breeders who smuggled a few of them out of Communist Hungary.

3. First AKC Triple Champion

The versatility of the Vizsla is truly remarkable. A Vizsla named Chartay became the first dog ever to earn a quintuple championship in five different disciplines by the American Kennel Club (AKC), an astounding feat that underlines this breed’s wide range of talents.

4. They “Blush” When Excited

Vizslas have a unique trait called “blushing”. When they get excited or happy, their noses and sometimes their ears can turn a deeper shade of pink. This adorable characteristic is a delightful display of their expressive nature.

5. Velcro Dogs

Vizslas are often called “Velcro dogs” because they form very strong bonds with their human families and love to be physically close to them. Don’t be surprised if your Vizsla tries to curl up in your lap or stick to your side like glue; it’s a breed trait they are renowned for!

6. No “Doggy” Odor

Unlike many other breeds, Vizslas have a distinct advantage: they lack the typical “doggy” odor. This trait, combined with their light-shedding coats, makes them an attractive option for people concerned about keeping their homes free from pet smells.

7. Excellent Swimmers

Despite not being as commonly associated with water as retrievers, Vizslas are actually excellent swimmers. Their thin but muscular build aids in their swimming skills, and they love to retrieve objects from water as much as they do on land.

In conclusion, Vizslas, with their storied history, versatile abilities, unique physical traits, and deep attachment to their human families, carry a cache of fascinating facts that extend beyond their obvious charm. From their roots in Hungarian nobility, their near extinction, their impressive championship status, their blushing excitement, their velcro-like attachment, their lack of doggy odor, to their proficiency in swimming, these less-known facts invite a fresh perspective on this vivacious breed. Whether you’re a Vizsla owner or just an admirer, these facts provide a fuller understanding and appreciation of Vizsla’s unique character.