The Vizsla dog, the symbolic dog of the Hungarian nation.

It is one of the most stunning dog breeds around. They are beautiful, graceful and loyal, and make superb companion dogs. But they are a powerful, active breed, and are only the right dog for the right sort of owner.

From temperament to grooming, if you are thinking about choosing the Hungarian Vizsla to be your canine companion, then read up on these fascinating facts about this brilliant breed to make sure they are right for you.

Fact #1: The Vizsla is the Best Companion

The Vizsla is sometimes mentioned as one of the so called “Velcro dogs” and tend to stick very close to their owners, quite literally. This is due to fact that this breed was developed to be a pointer and a retriever that worked very close with hunters. So that is why they like to be leaning against you or serving as a foot warmer!

They thrive on human attention and bond very strongly with their owners. They are also very talkative to their owners, and will whine, moan and make noises to ensure you are aware of their opinion.

Because of being a people loving dog, they are better suited to living indoors. In fact the Vizsla breed does not have an undercoat, therefore they should not be kept outside during wintertime.

Hungarian Vizsla

Fact #2: The Vizsla is Smart, but Stubborn!

The breed requires proper, determined training.

Vizslas are naturally versatile working dogs, and are quick to learn, but they have an independent mind of their own. This can make them stubborn, and they are easily distracted by exciting sights, scents, and sounds.

You must show them, through absolute consistency and great patience, that they must pay attention to you. Early socialisation is also a must.

 If not done properly they can become shy in strange situations or can become very excitable and easily startled. However, if done right the breed is famed for being friendly to family, strangers and animals alike.

Fact #3: Vizsla Shedding!

There is a myth going around that Vizsla’s don’t shed. This seems to be a common misconception which can only have originated from people who don't own them!

While Vizsla puppies don’t shed too much, adult Short Haired Vizslas shed pretty much continuously, though only lightly; although there may be periods when it is more pronounced. The hairs are usually quite short though so it isn't as noticeable as a longer haired dog.

So the Vizsla is an ideal match for those with a sensitive nose and no desire to bathe their dog every week. Despite this, overall they are a low maintenance dog for grooming, a regular weekly brush would most likely be ample for them.

However they will need their nails trimming at least once every two months. If you hear them clicking on the ground, they are getting too long! Plus this will save you getting scratches when this bouncy breeds jumps up to greet you.

A bouncy Vizsla

Fact #4: The Long Vizsla History

The Vizsla breed has been around for more than 1000 years, and is believed to have descended from the hunting dogs used by the Magyars who settled in Hungary at the end of the 9th Century. Being a talented hunting dog the Hungarian Vizsla was used to deliver messages during the Great War. However the toll and destruction of the two World Wars nearly eradicated the breed, but thankfully they have endured and remain the most noticeable breed in modern Hungary.

Fact #5: The Vizsla Lifespan

They are a vigorous and relatively long lived breed, averaging 12 to 14 years. The length of the Vizsla puppy hood is similar to other breeds and their biggest growth period is between 4 and 9 months. Though a Vizsla puppy will reach near the end of their growth period by 1 year old, they are still in the ‘teenager’ stage and a will not reach full maturity until 18 months old.

Vizsla carefully looking around

Fact #6: Vizsla is One of the Best Hunting Dogs

As mentioned previously, the Vizsla is an outstanding hunting dog.

This dog breed excels in retrieving game on all sorts of terrain, including water, as they are excellent swimmers. Not only are they great pointers, but they are excellent retrievers as well. No hunter could wish for a better companion.

However they have sensitive temperaments and can be easily put off if trained too harshly. As you might guess from them being a hunting dog, they are a very energetic breed and require at least 60 minutes of exercise every day. They enjoy long walks, jogging, and playing fetch, as well as dog sports. So they won’t suit a lazy owner, unless you don’t mind your house being torn to pieces by a bored Vizsla!

puppy

And here are a 4 more quick fire facts about the Vizsla!

  • Fact #7: Their top speed is 40 mph - try keeping up!
  • Fact #8: At 13-15 days old their ears will open and they get startled by sudden noises.
  • Fact #9: Many believe a Vizslas' tail needs to be docked because it can split while hunting or racing! Ouch!
  • Fact #10: The oldest recorded Vizsla lived to nearly 21 years old!

So is a Vizsla Right for You?

Let’s Sum Up!
  • The Vizsla is also a great match for families with small children. They will engage in playful games and all sorts of fun activities with children and can be fully trusted not to hurt them.
  • The breed is not recommended for people whose jobs require them to leave home for several days in a row. Vizslas themselves cry occasionally if left alone for long periods of time.
  • If you work from home, or someone else is around most of the time, then you are ideally suited for a Vizsla.
  • If you have the time and energy to give them plenty of exercise and attention, then the Vizsla is perfect for you. They will reward you with a gentle, playful nature, and the utmost dedication and loyalty to you all the time.
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Having a Vizsla can really be a truly rewarding experience. We would be pleased to hear your stories if you have a Vizsla dog of your own! But if you’re just thinking about getting a stunning puppy, then look no further! You must choose a quality puppy bred in their home nation, simply visit our Vizsla puppies for sale.