Are you looking for an exceptionally handsome and graceful dog? Then the Vizsla dog breed is probably on your list to consider (and if it’s not, it should be!). You see, besides being very adaptable, smooth, and adequately friendly with humans of all sizes, these guys are also brilliant, making them a true joy to own.
But….
Like all breeds of dogs, Vizslas come with their own health and personality “issues” that you should know about before making them a part of your family. After all, getting a dog is a significant commitment. 10 to 15 years of your life will be lived with your chosen dog. This is why we wanted to take a moment and discuss exactly what it might be like to own one of these incredible creatures so that if you ever get a chance to own one, you won’t be disappointed six months later.
So, without further ado, let’s dive right in!
Vizsla Breed Fast Facts
Country of Origin: Hungary
Original Purpose: Hunting
Height: 20 to 25 inches at the shoulder
Weight: 50 to 70 pounds
Dog Breed Classification: Sporting Group
Lifespan: 10 to 15 years
Origin of Vizsla Dog Breed
This dog hails from the landlocked, Eastern European country of Hungary. Here, the dog hunted and became a friend of falcons. Together, this beautiful bird and dog would hunt.
Today, this dog continues to hold jobs around the world. They work in airports and alongside police as drug-detection canines and as guide dogs and service dogs. They are a member of the American Kennel Club. A unique club for Vizslas is also known as Vizsla Club of America.
Physical Characteristics
This dog stands tall and proud, one of his most noticeable features. He’s a lean dog with a muscular build. He has floppy ears that frame his thin face. He has some wrinkles around the muzzle and sometimes a scorn wrinkle in the brow. Usually a golden or light brown, woody color, their coats are short and smooth. You can find some breeders breeding Vizslas with other colors like red or yellow, but those aren’t the norm.
Personality and Temperament
If you’re unfamiliar with the Vizsla personality, they’re much like German Shorthaired Pointers. This dog breed is very affectionate and gentle, so much so that sometimes they are called Velcro Dogs or Velcro Vizslas. This expression means it sounds like they’ll stick to their owner (the one with the other side of the velcro). You might consider him a fierce protector. His intelligence isn’t as bright as a Border Collie or Golden Retriever, but he’s an intelligent breed who needs regular mental stimulation.
Now we would be…
I am remiss if we didn’t mention that the Hungarian Vizsla isn’t meant to be left at home alone all day; this dog needs companionship and has room to exercise and play. If he doesn’t, you may find him showing destructive behavior and a nasty temperament. The nice thing about these guys is that if you put a Vizsla puppy in obedience training early on, you will probably have a very disciplined dog capable of a lot. Early socialization is quite essential.
Potential Health Concerns
Like all dogs, Vizslas can have any health problems, some of which can be detected in puppies and some appearing later in life. Some of the most common health problems you’ll want to look out for when getting a Vizsla from a breeder include:
- Hip Dysplasia: this is common among a lot of broad-chested dogs.
- Hypothyroidism: may require lifelong medication
- Cancer: again, many dogs will get this at some stage; this will not likely happen until later in life
- Blood Clotting Disorders: this can be pretty dangerous. Two diseases are von Willebrand’s disease and hemophilia, two similar but different diseases
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy: this will require treatment and could cause your dog to go completely blind
Now our advice…
Before you get a Vizsla dog, you can best talk with the breeder and get information on the dog’s complete family medical history. Then you’ll have a better chance of knowing what issues you may face with your dog later in life. You can also eliminate some risk by choosing respectable breeders from AKC or the Vizsla Club.
And while…
Many of these conditions may not be life-threatening, but they can become quite expensive, particularly if they become recurring issues. This is why we here at IndulgeYourPet also recommend that any new pet owner take a moment and see what it might cost for you to purchase a pet insurance policy for your new animal.
Now will a pet insurance policy be suitable for everyone?
No, probably not. But until you fully understand what these policies “will” and “won’t” cover and how much these pet insurance policies cost, how will you know if one might be right for you?
For more information on who we feel currently offers the “best” pet insurance policies out there, we would encourage you to check out our Best Pet Insurance Policies article.
