Fast facts
- Weight: 48-66 pounds (21.77-29.94 kg)
- Height: 21-25 inches (53.34-63.50 cm)
The appearance of a Vizsla
Vizslas are sleek, handsome, medium-sized dogs with short, golden-brown fur. Their broad, clear heads have pointed snouts, brown noses, and distinctive lines on their foreheads. Her silky ears hang tightly on her cheek and her eyes merge with her rust-golden fur colors. They have long, muscular necks sloping down to broad shoulders, deep chests, and a short back. Their tails, usually docked halfway, are carried horizontally. Overall, Vizslas have an aristocratic but rugged appearance.
Trains
- Energetic
- Curious
- Faithful
- Gently
- Tender
Ideal human companion
- Active, sporty types
- Familys
- Joggers and hikers
- Experienced dog handlers
How they live
Vizslas are gentle, energetic dogs who form strong bonds with their families. In fact, Vizslas are known to follow their owners around the house … all day. They like moving around and playing – sometimes at a boisterous level – but they easily adapt to family life and get along with everyone. They get along particularly well with children.
Although Vizslas are attached to their owners, they are generally kind to other people and pets. They are, of course, alert to movements and noises around the house, but they are not the best watch dogs.
Vizsla owners can expect some folly around the house. These dogs have some quirky habits, such as hopping around, digging large holes in the yard, and stealing snacks. Keep an eye on your favorite shoes too: they’re notorious chewers.
Things you should know
Vizslas needs adequate training from a young age. Without them, they can be shy, excited, and a little wild. With a fixed, steady direction, Vizslas will be a lot easier to deal with. They also thrive on attention: make sure they get plenty of face and affection time.
These dogs may be too big and too active to live in an apartment. You could easily feel cramped in small spaces. Ideally, Vizslas should have long, daily walks and the occasional opportunity to walk off the leash. Without enough exercise, they can walk a little flat. If you’re a jogger or a hiker, take your Vizsla with you – it has a lot of stamina to keep you motivated.
A healthy Vizsla can live up to 15 years. Generally healthy, some may develop hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hemophilia, and skin allergies. The smooth coat of the Vizsla is very easy to care for and only needs to be brushed occasionally to maintain its shiny shine.
Vizsla story
The Vizsla – also called the Hungarian Vizsla or Hungarian Pointer – is descended from ancient hunting dogs owned by Magyars who settled in Hungary hundreds of years ago. The perfect hunting dog for Hungary’s agricultural country, these dogs were quick, smart, and careful. They also had an excellent sense of smell. The recent cross with the Weimaraner and the German Shorthaired Pointer produced the wiry and sophisticated version we see today.
