Occasionally seen: None
Avg Size of Male: Height: 22-24 inches, Weight: 45-65 pounds
Major concerns: None
Suggested tests: Hip
Minor concerns: Hemophilia A, CMO, CHD
Life span: 10 – 14 years
Avg Size of Female: Height: 21-23 inches, Weight: 45-65 pounds
Brief History on Vizsla Origin
Hungarian hunters were seeking a quick, agile and close-working dog that could point and retrieve birds, as well as track smaller sized mammals. Barons and warlords had discovered the breed and sought it out by the 18th century, however by the end of World War I, the Vizsla had become practically extinct. A group of good specimens were interbred to repopulate the dwindling breed, and after World War II Vizslas began to spread outside of Hungary . The reason being is because Hungarians began fleeing Russian occupation, and taking their hunting dogs and companion pets with them. In the 1950s, the breed began appearing in the United States. In 1960, the AKC recognized the breed with its unique and handsome appearance and extraordinary hunting and tracking skills.
Vizsla Breed Appearance
The Vizsla is lightly built, medium in size and toned. Its build enables it to be quick and graceful, with high endurance. Its gait is best described as smooth and fast paced. Its coat is golden orange rust shade and it close to the body and straight. Some have small white marks on its chest or feet. The coat may be short, but it is also thick so that it can protect itself from the elements while it is out hunting.
Vizsla Breed Temperament
The Vizsla will grow frustrated and destructive if it is not given plenty of opportunity to exercise. It has an exceptional nose, and will often times sniff out birds. Even with its intelligence and obedience level, the Vizsla can still be stubborn at times. Some can exhibit shy or timid behavior while others can be overly excitable and outgoing, however any nervousness or displays of shyness are penalized during showings. This breed is friendly and sociable and adapts well to family life, it is also usually protective of its family and will make a good watch dog.
Vizsla Breed Maintenance
Caring for the coat of the Vizsla is minimal, a regular brushing or combing will suffice. It is an active breed that thrives off of strenuous activities and challenges. It will require more than just a short walk or playtime in the yard, it will do best if allowed to run free in a large fenced area or to join its owner on a long jog while leashed. This dog also requires mental stimulation and interaction in order to be happy, such as playing with its owner daily. It can live outdoors in warm climates, but must have a proper shelter and a soft bed for when it wants to escape the heat. It should be brought to live indoors during colder seasons. Owners need to make their authority clear from the beginning, and basic training introduced during as a puppy will help prevent stubbornness or hard headed behavior later down the line. Harsh training is not the right choice for this breed.
Toledo, United States.
