Kennel.com – Complete Guide to Dogs The Dog Lovers Guide
The Vizsla is a handsome, medium sized, muscular and lean hunting dog with a short golden rust coat. The breed originated in Hungary and the earliest known references are found in art work dating from the tenth century. Vizslas were only owned by nobleman who apparently were committed to keeping this breed pure.
These efficient dogs were used for many purposes which included pointing and retrieving as well as hunting small and large game.
The number of Vizslas like so many other breeds suffered greatly during World War II. There were never many Vizlsas to begin with because they were limited only to aristocracy, however, enough were smuggled out of Hungary to save the breed. Vizlas were brought to the United States in the 1950s and were used as bird dogs.
Today these gentle natured dogs are best known as a wonderful family pet or companion. The Vizsla was recognized by the American Kennel Club in the Sporting Group in 1960.
Height: The height of a Vizsla when measured the shoulder is between 21 – 24 inches (53 – 61 cm). Females are slightly shorter than males.
Weight: The weight for a Vizsla can range between 45 – 60 pounds (21 -27 kg). Females weigh slightly less than males.
Coat Type: Vizsla’s have short, wiry coat. Grooming of the coat is easy – all that’s needed to keep it in good condition is an occasional brushing and bath. The Vizsla is a light shedder and its coat has very little odor.
Color: The color of the Vizsla’s coat can be different shades of golden rust.
Temperament: Vizlas are very sweet natured, gentle and affectionate. They’re smart and do very well with training. Vizlas are eager to please, but they are also sensitive, therefore harsh training methods should never be used. Both training and socialization are necessary and should start at a young age. Vizlas thrive on human companionship and should never be left alone for long periods of time. They are nicknamed Velcro Dogs for a reason – they want to be with you and will follow you everywhere you go. Vizlsas have a ton of energy and need daily exercise. Running, long walks and playing fetch are all great for your Vizsla’s physical and mental well being. If this breed is not sufficiently exercised every day, they will become bored and find other and often destructive ways keep busy.
Health Concerns: Vizlsas are generally healthy, but are prone hip dysplasia. Other less common health issues: epilepsy, hemophilia, tail abnormalities, and Von Willebrand’s disease. The average life span of a Vizsla is 12 to 15 years.
Special Interest:
• Vizlsa means pointer in Hungarian.
• Vizlsas have excellent vision and an extremely keen nose.
• Vizlsa dogs are nicknamed Velcro Dogs because they become so attached to their owner and always want to be with them.
Classifications:
AKC: Sporting Group
ANKC: Gundogs Group 3
CKC: Sporting Dogs Group 1
FCI: Group 7 Section 1 Continental Pointing Dogs
KC: Gundog
NZKC: Gundog
UKC: Gun Dogs
VIZSLAS