Hungarian Vizsla

A robust, noble-looking, medium-sized dog. Known for their affectionate natures and high energy levels, Hungarian Vizslas make perfect dogs for active families.

The need-to-know

Dog suitable for owners with some experience
Some training required
Enjoys vigorous walks
Enjoys walking more than two hours a day

Large dog
Some drool
Requires grooming once a week
Non hypoallergenic breed

Quiet dog
Not a guard dog
May require training to live with other pets
May require training to live with kids

Key Facts

Ratings

Key Facts

Lifespan:	10–14 years
Weight:	20–30kg
Height:	53–64cm
Colours:	The short, dense coat is smooth and comes in an eye-catching reddish-gold colour
Size:	Medium
Kennel Club group:	Gundog

Ratings

Family-friendly:	5/5
Exercise needs:	5/5
Easy to train:	5/5
Tolerates being alone:	1/5
Likes other pets:	5/5
Energy level:	5/5
Grooming needs:	3/5
Shedding:	2/5

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Personality

A larger-than-life character, the Hungarian Vizsla makes a fun, lively, loving companion for those who can give him the time and attention he needs. A sensitive dog, they enjoy being active and learning new things and revel in training, provided it is fun and rewarding. They can be naturally protective of their family and as they bond so closely to their beloved owner, they hate to be left alone.

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History and Origins

Country of Origin: Hungary

There is no doubt this is an old breed - but just how old has been the subject of many arguments. They are in size and shape very similar to the Weimaraner but with different colouring - and some say that the Vizsla was a cross between the Weimaraner and various pointers as recently as the 20th century. Hungarian breeders however maintain that it is the other way round and that there are records of Vizslas dating from the 11th and 12th century when they would hunt with Magyars and their falcons. In all likelihood this is the correct version of events and the Vizsla has been helping Hungarian hunters for hundreds of years - although when the breed struggled to survive in the early part of the 20th century, pointers were introduced to strengthen the stock and ensure their survival.

Health and Common Issues

The Hungarian Vizsla is generally a healthy breed. The most common breed specific problems are a swallowing disorder and epilepsy.

Exercise Needs

The Hungarian Vizsla needs at least two hours of active daily exercise a day. As you'd expect, given their hunt, point and retrieve background, retrieve games (on land and in water) are popular with them, and they do need plenty of off-lead free running and exploring.

Space Requirements

Like most gundogs, Hungarian Vizslas do not do well in urban environments. They are large, active, country dogs that need space both inside and out.

Nutrition and Feeding

Your dog's diet needs to have the right balance of all the main nutrient groups including a constant supply of fresh water. It's also important to conduct regular body condition scores to ensure you keep your dog in ideal shape and remember to feed them at least twice daily and in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.

Grooming Hungarian Vizslas

The short, smooth coat is dense and quite greasy, and needs very little maintenance – just a weekly brush.

Training Hungarian Vizslas

Hungarian Vizlas enjoy working with their owners and will enjoy training as long as it is fun and rewarding. They can reach a high standard of obedience and can happily compete in dog sports such as agility - but will sometimes have unexpected moments of apparent deafness when something exciting like a squirrel catches their eye! As such, training a good recall is important.

Best Family Dog Breeds

Hungarian Vizslas can make great dogs for active families with older children who love the great outdoors and plenty of walking.

While many dogs are traditionally thought of as being good with children, all dogs and children need to be taught to get on with and respect each other, and be safe together. Even so, dogs and young children should never be left alone together and adults should supervise all interactions between them.

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Did You Know?

Known as dogs who originally hunted alongside falcons, it is said that they still have a natural affinity for birds of prey.
Hungarian Vizslas are known to be very clingy dogs and will follow their owner absolutely everywhere.
They’re one of the top 10 fastest dog breeds and can run up to 40mph.
Vizslas are incredible swimmers and have webbed feet! They don’t have an undercoat though so make sure you don’t take them swimming when it’s cold.
Vizsla means ‘pointer’ but in Hungarian it also means ‘beagle’, ‘retriever’ and ‘deerhound’.

Similar Breeds:

Weimaraner

Hungarian Wire Haired Vizsla

Doberman

Dog with red collar looking out the window

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