Gundog group · Hungary
Vizsla
Also called Hungarian Vizsla, Hungarian Pointer, Magyar Vizsla.
What makes them remarkable
This Hungarian pointer nearly vanished after the Second World War, then was rebuilt from surviving dogs.
- Affectionate
- Gentle
- Energetic
- Loyal
- Sensitive
- Size
- Medium
- Weight
- 20 to 27 kg44 to 60 lb
- Lives
- 12 to 14 years
- Energy
- Very High
- Trains
- Very High
- Barks
- Low
Training
Training a Vizsla
Gundog breeds. Quick to learn and quick to get over-excited. The work is calm around distractions, not obedience.
Velcro Dog
Start here
Vizslas are extremely attached to their people. Use this bond for training but also teach independence.
Sensitive Soul
Extremely sensitive to tone: reward generously, keep any correction to a quiet word, and never raise your voice.
Exercise is Non-Negotiable
Without adequate exercise, Vizslas become anxious and destructive. Plan for significant daily activity.
The app turns this into five to fifteen minutes a day.
Add your Vizsla and it builds the plan around their age, where they came from and what they already know, one step at a time.
Free to start. iPhone. No card needed.
At home
Living with one
Bred to find, flush and retrieve game alongside a person. Biddable, busy, and happiest with a job.
Gets on with
- ChildrenVery High
- Other dogsHigh
- StrangersHigh
- CatsModerate
Breed averages. Early socialisation and the individual dog matter more.
- Exercise
- 2+ hours daily. Intense physical activity including running, swimming, and field work. Ideal for active families.
- Grooming
- Low. Weekly brushing, occasional bathing. Minimal shedding with short coat.
- Drool
- Low
- Coat
- Short, Smooth, DenseGolden Rust, Russet Gold
- In a flat
- Needs more space than a flat gives.
Health
Things to ask a breeder or vet about
Hip Dysplasia
Moderate
Joint condition requiring health screening
Epilepsy
Moderate
Seizure disorder that may require lifelong management
Lymphosarcoma
Severe
Cancer affecting the lymphatic system, higher incidence in breed
Where they come from
History
An ancient Hungarian breed dating back to the 8th century when Magyar tribes settled in Hungary. Developed as an all-purpose pointer and retriever for the Hungarian nobility. Nearly extinct after World War II, survivors were used to rebuild the breed worldwide.
- Chartay · First Triple Champion in AKC history, earning titles in conformation, field, and obedience
Similar breeds
All breeds
Wirehaired Vizsla
Hunters developed a rough-coated cousin of the Vizsla for colder, wetter conditions; it is a separate breed.
Medium · Gundog
Welsh Springer Spaniel
This red-and-white Welsh spaniel is a distinct breed, with written references reaching back to the 1500s.
Medium · Gundog
American Water Spaniel
This Great Lakes hunting dog was developed to work from small boats and became Wisconsin’s state dog.
Medium · Gundog
Boykin Spaniel
The breed’s story begins with a stray spaniel found near a South Carolina church.
Medium · Gundog