Two Vizsla dogs standing in the water and high grass.
Two Vizsla dogs standing in the water and high grass.

Vizsla

avatarStephanie Lenoir LVT, VTS (ECC)

Height22 - 25"
Weight48 - 62 lbs
TypeSporting
Life Expectancy12 - 15 years
Area of OriginHungary

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

The Hungarian Vizsla is a good natured and very loyal dog breed. They have a distinctive look, featuring a rust-colored coat, large folded ears, and slender, sporty body. Vizslas are medium-sized, with a higher energy level than most of their canine peers. This is a breed that requires lots of exercise and is best suited for an active family. Vizslas are affectionate and gentle, but because of their exuberance, they do not always make the best apartment pets and may suffer from separation anxiety.

Energy Level

Playfulness

Friendliness to dogs

Friendliness to strangers

exercise requirements

affection level

friendliness to other pets

watchfulness

Grooming Requirements

Vocality

Where Are Vizslas From?

The origin of the Vizsla is not well known, however, there are ancient etchings in stone found in Central Europe that resemble the breed. 14th-century Hungarian literature also featurings drawings that bear a resemblance to this hunting dog.

These energetic animals were originally known for their pointing and retrieving abilities on land and in water, but have primarily taken on the role of companion in contemporary times. The Vizsla was imported into the United States in 1950 and was recognized in the American Kennel Club in 1960.

Where Are Vizslas From?

The origin of the Vizsla is not well known, however, there are ancient etchings in stone found in Central Europe that resemble the breed. 14th-century Hungarian literature also featurings drawings that bear a resemblance to this hunting dog.

These energetic animals were originally known for their pointing and retrieving abilities on land and in water, but have primarily taken on the role of companion in contemporary times. The Vizsla was imported into the United States in 1950 and was recognized in the American Kennel Club in 1960.

Care

What Kind of Diet Does a Vizsla Need?

Since the Vizsla was bred for hunting, they have a well-muscled physique and require a balanced and nutritious diet. They should be fed puppy food for the first year of their lives to ensure that they get the nutrients needed for bone and muscle development.

The breed is prone to skin allergies, so it’s best to consult their veterinarian if hair loss or excessive itching is noted.

Caring for a Vizsla

What Kind of Diet Does a Vizsla Need?

How Much Grooming Does a Vizsla Need?

Are Vizslas Healthy Dogs?

How Much Training Does a Vizsla Need?

How Much Exercise Does a Vizsla Need?

What Kind of Diet Does a Vizsla Need?

Since the Vizsla was bred for hunting, they have a well-muscled physique and require a balanced and nutritious diet. They should be fed puppy food for the first year of their lives to ensure that they get the nutrients needed for bone and muscle development.

The breed is prone to skin allergies, so it’s best to consult their veterinarian if hair loss or excessive itching is noted.

What Are the Physical Characteristics of a Vizsla?

The average weight of a Vizsla is anywhere between 48 and 66 pounds, and they typical stand between 22 and 25 inches tall at the shoulders. They are medium-sized, with an athletic build and graceful appearance.

Vizslas have soft, brown eyes that resemble their coat color. Their heads are lean, but muscular, with a skull that is slightly wider between the ears. They also have wide nostrils and a brown/pink nose.

The Vizsla has an air of sophistication, likely attributed to a lithe, but muscular, body and smooth coat. They have a deep barrow chest cavity with a slim waist and impeccable posture.

Typically, Vizsla tails are docked to about 30% of their original length between 2 to 5 days of age by a veterinarian.

The forelimbs are long and lean, but well-muscled. The front legs should be parallel with each other and have a graceful and smooth gait when moving at a fast pace.

The Vizsla coat is golden rust or dark yellow in color, and hair can be smooth or wiry. They may also have a splash of white hair on the chest or toes.

Hindquarters have a medium angulation, though they are straight when viewed from the back. The thighs are well-muscled, and the hocks are parallel to each other.

Vizsla Facts

1

The Vizsla is one of the 10 fastest dog breeds in the world, running up to 40 miles per hour.

2

A Vizsla named Chartay was the American Kennel Club's first quintuple champion, earning the designation in 2000. Her awards included the Triple Champion, Amateur Field Champion, Master Agility Champion, the Utility Dog Excellent title, and Master Hunter.

3

The Weimaraner was developed from the Vizsla and German Shorthaired Pointer breeds.

Other Breeds to Explore

Choosing a Redbone Coonhound
Weimaraner
Rhodesian Ridgeback

References

  • Morris, Desmond. Dogs: The Ultimate Dictionary of Over 1,000 Dog Breeds. Trafalgar Square, 2002.
  • American Kennel Club. The Complete Dog Book. Random House Digital, Inc., 2006.
  • Wilcox, Bonnie and Chris Walkowicz. The Atlas of Dog Breeds of the World. T.F.H Publications, Inc., 1995.
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