Looking for a smart cookie of a pooch that’s quick to learn tricks? Fetch yourself a Hungarian Vizsla! This breed is a medium-sized dog that ticks the box and then some, with the added bonus of being loving, easy to groom and cute as a button with long limbs and high-class colouring. The Vizsla, as it’s known for short, is a popular pet in its native Hungary and beyond. Its energy levels may be a bit much for very young children, but older kids will relish playtime.
History
The ancient Vizsla came to life alongside the Magyars over a thousand years ago. However, it really came into its own with the Hungarian warlords of the 1700s, thanks to its well-tuned instincts as a hunting companion. Various European wars took their toll on the breed – fortunately, it survived extinction by escaping its native homelands in the hands of emigrants. It’s thought to have Pointers and Hounds in its ancestry.
Health
The Hungarian Vizsla has a life expectancy of between 10 and 14 years.
This breed has a limited number of health issues. Keep an eye out for hip dysplasia, epilepsy, heart problems, eye problems and thyroid problems.
Characteristics
The noble powerball
Hungarian Vizslas are brilliant, but they aren’t for the faint of heart. As strong, working dogs, they need a lot of exercise to keep them relaxed, and only a confident trainer will bring out the best of their insinct to please. An unhappy Vizsla might chew your house to pieces and may not rub along peacefully with other pets. And you should avoid rodents full stop. But enough with the doom and gloom! A well-adjusted Vizsla is as gentle and docile as they come and will keep you endlessly entertained.
Country living
Cramped apartments aren’t a good environment for this breed. A house with a garden is where your Vizsla will feel most at home.
Training
The Hungarian Vizsla is intelligent by nature and learns tricks fast. In fact, they often score among the highest breeds in obedience competitions. Just make sure you take an authoritative approach to training from the outset to establish the right dynamic.
Housebreaking
An excitable Vizsla will be difficult to housetrain. You can make life easier for yourself by making sure yours gets enough exercise to keep it calm.
Where to find the Hungarian Vizsla
Viszla Groups
Hungry for fellow Hungarian Vizsla enthusiasts to share stories and tips with? Find a Vizsla breed group below.
Hungarian Vizsla Society
Hungarian Vizsla Club
Hungarian Wirehaired Vizsla Association
Adopt a Vizala
Want to adopt a Vizsla in need of a loving home? Find a rescue centre below.
Hungarianm Vizsla Welfare Charity
Vizsla Rescue
Breeders
Sold on the sleek, spirited and energetic Vizsla? Find an approved Hungarian Vizsla breeder below.
Kennel Club Assured Viszla Breeders
Do you own a Hungarian Viszla?
If you own a Hungarian Viszla let us know in the comments below and upload your picture to our Facebook, Twitter and Instagram tagging @DogBuddyCo.