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The Hungarian Vizsla (also known as the Hungarian Pointer or Magyar Vizsla) is the ultimate four-legged companion for anyone looking for a hardworking dog with a big heart. With their stunning rust-colored coat and graceful build, these dogs are not only easy on the eyes but also a joy to have around.
Often called ‘velcro dogs’, Vizslas are known for their deep attachment to their owners. They were taught to stay close to their humans when hunting, even when off lead, and this Vizsla trait remains today. They’ll follow you from room to room, always ready to cuddle up for some quality time. They can often be found leaning against their owner’s body or acting as a foot warmer, because next to you just isn’t enough – they need to be on you! If you’re looking for a loyal companion, the Vizsla has quite literally got your back.
But don’t let their affectionate nature think they’re laid back; this breed is full of energy and excitement. Bred as hunting dogs, Vizslas are vivacious and always up for an adventure, from long walks and games of fetch, to fun hikes through the woods. These dogs love to move, and without enough exercise (we’re talking at least two hours a day) they might get a little ‘ruff’ around the edges. A bored Vizsla is a destructive one, so be sure to keep them mentally and physically engaged to avoid your sofa being used as a chew toy.
The Vizsla’s high intelligence and trainability make them incredibly versatile. Whether it's hunting, working in search and rescue, or showing off their agility skills in dog sports, these dogs shine in just about any role they’re given. They’re quick to learn new tricks, but they do have a stubborn streak and can lose focus if they’re not fully invested. Praise, treats, and a gentle approach will help your Vizsla become an A grade student.
Their social nature means Vizslas aren’t keen on alone time though. They have so much love to give and don’t want to do it from a distance! If left to their own devices for too long, they can develop separation anxiety, so they need company for most of the day. Despite their hardy heritage as a gundog, Vizslas are actually very sensitive souls. Disapproving tones and loud noises can send them into a spiral of sadness and distress, so they need early socialisation to build their confidence up.
Also, with their hunting instincts in full gear, Vizslas might be prone to chasing smaller animals, so supervision and recall is required in open spaces.
As with all dogs though, early socialisation and consistent training is key to raising a confident and well-mannered pooch. So, if you’re looking for an energetic partner in crime, the Vizsla could be the breed for you.
The Short-Haired Vizsla is the more common of the two, known for its sleek, smooth coat and affectionate, energetic temperament. On the other hand, the Wirehaired Hungarian Vizsla has a distinctive wiry coat that gives it a unique look and provides extra protection in tougher environments. While both share similar Vizsla traits, such as intelligence and high energy levels, the Wirehaired Vizsla temperament is a bit more independent and resilient. They can be slightly more aloof than the people-oriented short-haired Vizsla, but both breed types are loving, loyal companions.
Highly energetic
Devoted to family
Loving and affectionate
Forms strong bonds with owners
Playful and lively
Adventurous and athletic
Loves having a job to do
Very intelligent
Curious and keen to learn
Eager to please
Excels at training
Good watchdogs
Quite vocal and chatty
Will bark to alert you
Protective of family
Needs a lot of physical and mental exercise
Thrives in canine sports
Good with strangers and other animals
Slight stubborn streak
Easily distracted
Destructive if bored
Can be sensitive and timid
Clingy and prone to separation anxiety
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Gentle-mannered and affectionate | Needs vigorous daily exercise |
| Highly intelligent | Needs lots of space and a large garden |
| Low maintenance grooming needs | Can be timid if not well socialised |
| Excels in canine sports and hunting | Easily distracted with a stubborn streak |
| Good with children and pets | Suffers from separation anxiety |
| Good watchdogs | Sensitive to loud noises |
Yes, Vizslas are wonderful family dogs for the right kind of people. Loyal, loving, and endlessly affectionate, they thrive in homes where they’re treated as a true member of the pack. They’re people-oriented pups that’ll happily snuggle up after a day full of adventures. However, they’re high energy dogs that need vigorous exercise everyday. Active families that love to spend time outdoors, are home with their pooch most of the day, and can dedicate time to training are a good match for the Vizsla. If you lead a more sedentary lifestyle or spend a lot of time away from home, this isn’t the breed for you.
Yes, Vizslas are great companions for lively kids that want an energetic pooch to play with. However, Vizslas can be very bouncy and exuberant, and their size makes it easy for them to knock over toddlers or cause accidental harm. Households with older children might be better suited for the Vizsla.
You should always teach children how to properly interact with dogs, regardless of breed. This includes no pulling, smacking, poking, or disturbing them while they’re eating and sleeping. Great care should also be taken when introducing dogs and children, making sure to never leave little ones unsupervised no matter how well trained your pooch is.
Yes, Vizslas are sociable, friendly pups that get on well with other animals if they’ve been socialised from a young age. They make friends with other dogs, and can even live with a cat if they’ve been raised together or introduced properly. However, they have strong hunting instincts and aren’t recommended for households with small pets like rabbits, hamsters, or birds.
Introducing new animals into the pack should always be managed carefully. Remember, every Vizsla is unique, so monitor their body language, provide space and reward good behaviour.
We all want our doggos to live long, happy, healthy lives, so it’s important you know how to look after a Vizsla properly. From tasty nutritious meals to exercise, training and grooming, we’ve got it covered.
When fully grown, adult Vizslas need at least 2 hours of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. These athletic doggos were bred to work hard in the field, hunting and retrieving game, so a quick walk around the block won’t cut it. They thrive on activities that let them stretch their legs and use their sharp minds, such as long hikes, vigorous games of fetch, or even agility training.
Vizslas also make fantastic running, hiking, or biking companions, so if you’re into outdoor adventures, they’ll happily keep up with you. Swimming is another favourite hobby of theirs, but just make sure the bodies of water are safe for them to splash around in.
As natural hunters, Vizslas love to explore their surroundings, but their prey drive can cause them to dash after birds, squirrels, or other wildlife. To keep them and the local critters safe, always use a sturdy lead and harness during walks. If your Vizsla has excellent recall, off-lead time in secure areas can be a great way to let them run free. However, it’s best to keep them on a lead in parks or areas with lots of wildlife to avoid any unexpected chases.
When not outdoors, Vizslas need a lot of mental stimulation to prevent boredom from kicking in. Puzzle toys, hide-and-seek, or teaching new tricks are perfect ways to keep their sharp minds engaged. Without enough exercise and enrichment, they can cause destruction around the house, so it’s best to keep these boys and girls busy with lots of activities.
Vizslas are incredibly intelligent dogs with a natural eagerness to please, making them a joy to train…most of the time. They excel in obedience, agility, and even more specialised activities like search and rescue or hunting. Their versatility means they can adapt to a variety of tasks, whether it’s mastering basic commands, tackling agility courses, or impressing everyone with new tricks.
But this cleverness often comes with a streak of independence. Vizslas can adopt a ‘what’s in it for me’ attitude if training feels repetitive or uninspiring. Without guidance, their intelligence and energy can lead to mischief.
With the right approach and a confident, enthusiastic leader, Vizslas can easily blossom into obedient, well-behaved pooches.
Unleash your pup’s potential with these Vizsla training tips.
1. Be positive. Always use positive reinforcement by rewarding good behaviour with lots of praise and tasty treats, such as this High Protein Baltic Beef Jerky.
2. Be gentle. Vizslas are very sensitive and don’t respond well to harsh tones or corrections. Shouting at them can make them shut down or become anxious, so a gentle, upbeat approach works best.
3. Socialise from the start. Without enough socialisation from a young age, Vizslas can become timid, causing them to be overly cautious or shy around strangers. Expose them to new people, children, dogs, animals, smells, and situations from an early age to help them become calm and confident canines.
4. Be consistent. Vizslas are smart cookies but they’ll pick up bad habits as easy as they do good ones, so consistency is key, along with making sure the household is using the same command words.
5. Work on recall. With their strong hunting instincts, it’s essential for Vizslas to learn good recall – one glimpse of a bird or squirrel and they’re off! In a safe environment, practise using a long line lead, clear vocal commands, and high value treats to encourage them to come back to you.
6. Get them used to a lead. Vizslas can be strong pullers, especially if they spot something to chase, so they need to learn to walk nicely on a lead. Practice indoors where there are fewer distractions, and gradually move to busier environments as they become more comfortable.
7. Keep sessions short and varied. Vizslas are easily distracted by their surroundings and get bored if training is repetitive. Do short 10 minute bursts a few times a day and mix it up with new tricks, games, or environments to keep them engaged.
8. Play scent-based games. Use their hunting prowess to your advantage by incorporating scent work into their training routine. Games of hide-and-seek using treats, toys, or your stinky socks can help them learn to ‘stay’, as they only get to hunt for the goods once you give the release command. Scent work gives their brains a good workout and helps to strengthen the bond between you and your dog.
9. Channel their chewing. Being a retrieving dog, Vizslas love to chew and are quite mouthy, so provide lots of ‘indestructible toys’, soft plushies to carry around, and long-lasting dog chews. Not only will this save your sofa from potential harm, but it’s a great way to keep them engaged and stimulated.
10. Teach bite inhibition. Vizslas can get quite mouthy and boisterous during play. When they’re a pup, teach them bite inhibition early on by redirecting playful nips onto a toy instead.
11. Be patient with separation anxiety. While they should never be left alone for hours on end, you can help Vizslas be more comfortable with their own company by gradually increasing the amount of time you're away from home. Start with small increments (e.g., 5-10 minutes) and make sure they have a toy or puzzle to keep them busy.
Vizslas have a short, smooth, sleek coat that’s easy to maintain. While they don’t require a lot of grooming, Vizslas are not hypoallergenic as they shed moderately throughout the year with more noticeable shedding during spring and autumn. Weekly brushing will help keep loose hair in check and reduce the amount of fur around the house.
Along with the smooth-coated Vizsla, there’s also the Hungarian Wire-Haired Vizsla. These dogs have a wiry, textured coat that offers extra protection against rough environments. This longer coat just needs more frequent brushing to prevent matting. The Wire-Haired Vizsla sheds less than the smooth-coated variety, but attention is still needed to keep it healthy.
The Vizsla's signature coat colour is a rich, rust-like golden red, giving them their distinctive, eye-catching appearance. Red Vizslas are the only accepted colour in the breed standard.
Here are some Vizsla grooming tips to keep them looking their best all year round.
Brush the Vizsla coat once a week using a rubber curry brush or grooming mitt to remove dead hairs and promote extra shine. Brush more regularly during shedding seasons.
Check their ears for signs of infection and clean regularly; use a soft cotton pad to gently wipe around the inner areas but don’t stick anything down their ear canal.
Bathe when necessary using a dog-friendly shampoo. Don’t overdo it though, as too many baths can disrupt the Ph balance of their skin and cause allergies to flare up.
Trim their nails once or twice a month if they don’t wear them down naturally. It’s important you know what you’re doing when it comes to nail trimming, so learn from a professional or let the groomers take care of it.
Don’t forget their teeth and gums. Use a dog-friendly toothbrush and toothpaste to maintain good oral hygiene and prevent stinky breath.
Give them a healthy dental stick once a day to keep the doggo dentist at bay!
Properly looked after, cared for, and loved, a Vizsla’s life expectancy is 10–15 years. However, like all beautiful purebreds, they’re predisposed to a few health conditions.
Healthy Vizslas should be seen by a vet at least once a year, with senior dogs (seven years and older) needing more frequent visits. Monitor your pooch regularly and ensure they’re getting what they need for a healthy and happy lifestyle.
Hip Dysplasia. This is a genetic condition where the hip joint doesn’t fit together properly, potentially leading to arthritis and mobility issues. Those looking to bring a Vizsla puppy home should aim to buy from reputable breeders who disclose the hip scores of the parents. It can usually be managed with a combination of pain relief, anti-inflammatories, joint supportive dog food, and joint supplements.
Hypothyroidism. This disorder causes the thyroid gland to stop producing thyroid hormones, leading to weight gain, lack of energy, skin and ear infections, dry skin, and thinning of the fur. Dogs usually develop symptoms when they’re middle aged, but it can be managed successfully with lifelong medication.
Lymphosarcoma. Lymphosarcoma, the third most common cancer in dogs, affects areas like the spleen, lymph nodes, liver, and bone marrow. Chemotherapy achieves remission in about 80% of cases.
Epilepsy. Epileptic seizures last between one to three minutes, and can cause your dog to collapse, leg paddle, vocalise and urinate. Epilepsy usually makes itself known before the age of 5 and dogs are typically managed on daily anti-seizure medicine.
Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (GDV). More commonly known as ‘bloat’, this typically affects deep chested breeds. It’s a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the stomach twists and fills with gas, cutting off food and water and stopping circulation to the stomach and intestines. Signs include retching without vomiting, drooling, a distended stomach, and general abdominal pain. Urgent veterinary care is needed.
Sebaceous Adenitis. Vizslas suffering from this inflammatory disease have damaged sebaceous glands, leading to scaly patches and hair loss. It typically affects areas such as the head, ears, and torso. It can be treated with medicated shampoos, fatty acid supplements, and sometimes steroids.
Allergies. Allergies can be triggered by food or environmental factors like pollen, grass, household chemicals, dust mites or flea bites. Allergies cause itchy skin and digestive issues. If your dog is excessively scratching, rubbing their face, licking their paws, vomiting or having bouts of diarrhoea, they may be suffering from an allergy.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). This is an inherited condition that causes dogs to go progressively blind, and there’s sadly no cure. It’s strongly advised that breeders screen their breeding stock for this debilitating disease.
Ear Infections. Vizslas are prone to ear infections due to poor ventilation of the ears and the fact that the ear canals tend to become moist and humid – the ideal environment for yeast and bacteria to grow. Vizslas also love swimming, but trapped water in the ear can lead to infection. Frequent cleaning can help prevent infection.
Eye Problems. Vizslas are prone to a few eye problems, such as entropion (where the eyelids fold inwards), glaucoma, and cataracts. These conditions can cause pain, impaired vision, and sometimes even blindness.
Hyperuricosuria (HUU). This condition affects wire-haired Vizslas, and it causes stones to form in the bladder. Surgery is required.
Obesity. Vizslas have a hearty appetite, and can easily pile on the pounds if they’re overindulged. Carrying extra weight dramatically reduces a dog’s quality of life, so it’s important they get daily exercise and that they’re not fed too many high calorie treats.
Dental Disease. Tartar and plaque buildup leads to inflammation of the gums, and eventually tooth and bone decay. Keep on top of their oral hygiene and consider using specially formulated dental treats and dog food.
Feeding your Vizsla a well balanced diet that’s tailored to their size and medical needs is an essential part of being a responsible dog owner. From helping their coat stay shiny to maintaining healthy joints, the food you give them is so im-paw-tant!
The amount you feed your Vizsla will depend on a number of factors, such as whether they’re a puppy or an adult, if you’re using dry food, wet food or a mix, their energy levels, and whether they’ve been neutered or spayed.
As these dogs are prone to bloating, it’s best to feed adult Vizslas twice a day using a slow feeder bowl, so they don’t guzzle it down too quickly. To prevent obesity, they shouldn’t be allowed to free-feed, benefiting more from portioned meals given at set times.
You'll find a handy feeding calculator at the bottom of every product page here at Pooch & Mutt, helping you identify how much of our health-led recipes are right for the age, size and weight of your dog. Take our quick quiz to find your pooch’s perfect food!
Feed a balanced diet
Vizslas needs a vet recommended, high-protein dog food that meets their nutritional needs and fuels them for all their activities. Our Primal Wild Boar & Lamb Dry Food is good for optimal muscle growth, immune strength, and a glossy coat. You should also consider adding natural supplements to their diet such as Salmon Oil, which helps to boost your pet’s physical and mental health.
Prevent bloat
These pooches are prone to bloating and developing GDV, so make sure to space food and exercise an hour apart, and keep their food bowl on the floor as opposed to being elevated.
Protect their joints
Active breeds can benefit from joint care supplements and food to support bone health and mobility. Also, puppies should never be over exercised while they’re still developing.
Monitor weight
A healthy adult Vizsla weight is between 20–30 kg. Females are typically 20–25 kg, while males weigh 25–30 kg. These dogs reach full height by 12–14 months, but they can continue to fill out until the ages of 18–24 months.
Say no to table scraps
Their charming good looks might be hard to resist, but it’s important these dogs aren’t overfed. Carrying extra weight puts pressure on their joints, organs, and drastically reduces their quality of life. If your Vizsla’s waistline is expanding, consider this Slim & Slender Dry Food that’s good for weight management.
Protect their skin & coat
Vizslas are prone to a few skin problems, so you might want to consider a daily care supplement like our Bionic Biotic, or feed them hypoallergenic dog food.
Exercise regularly
These active dogs need a lot of exercise each day to burn off energy, stay trim, and prevent boredom kicking in.
Look after their eyes
Regular eye tests can detect early signs of glaucoma and cataracts, and a balanced diet rich in omega-3s (found in fish) can help support eye health.
Take them to the vet
It might not be their favourite place in the world but regular check-ups with a vet can help identify potential health issues early on.
Always speak to your vet about the best course of action in treating health problems in your dog.
Take a look at the Vizsla’s dream home.
| Type of owner? | Active individuals, couples, and families that love the outdoors and can dedicate time to exercise and training. |
| Outdoor space? | A large, secure back garden is essential, along with regular access to country walks and the great outdoors. |
| Adaptability? | They’re not suited to living in small apartments due to their size and energy levels, but they can adapt to city life if they have outdoor space and are given enough exercise. |
| Multi-pet home? | They can live nicely with other dogs and cats if socialised and introduced properly, but they’re not a good match for very small pets. |
The Vizsla is a velcro dog through and through, thriving on constant companionship and affection. If you want a loyal shadow, they’re your go-to. Weimaraners are a bit more independent and bold, and have boundless energy and a playful personality. They’re somewhat similar in size too, but Weimaraners are larger, standing 58–69 cm tall and weighing 25–41 kg, compared to the Vizsla’s 53–64 cm and 20–30 kg. Both need active owners who love outdoor adventures, but if you prefer a slightly calmer vibe at home, the Vizsla might be a better match.
Deciding between a Vizsla and a Rhodesian Ridgeback comes down to your lifestyle and preferences. The Vizsla is a high-energy cuddle bug, always eager for outdoor adventures and indoor snuggles – they’re perfect for someone who wants a constant companion. Ridgebacks are more independent with their dignified demeanor and protective instincts. They’re fairly laid back but still enjoy an active lifestyle.
Size is another factor: Ridgebacks are larger and more muscular, weighing 36–40 kg and standing 61–69 cm tall, while Vizslas are leaner and more agile, weighing 20–30 kg and measuring 53–64 cm. If you want a medium-sized velcro dog, the Vizsla is for you. If you want a large dog that’s stoic and loyal, the Ridgeback is a good choice.
The unconditional love of a Vizsla is priceless, but there are costs to consider if you plan to own one.
The price of a Vizsla is anywhere between £600 and £3,000. The price you pay will depend on the breeder or private seller, and the pedigree of the dog. The total monthly cost for owning a Vizsla can be as high as £140, depending on food and insurance levels.
Set up costs
Primary vaccines in the UK cost between £40-£70 on average, but this can vary depending on where you live and the veterinary practice. You’ll also need equipment such as a lead, collar, harness, dog tag (this is a legal requirement), bedding, food bowls, toys, and a crate if you’re crate training. If you decide to neuter your pup, the cost of the operation ranges from £110 to £300, and is usually done between six and 12 months old. Spaying costs can be higher and you should always talk to your vet about the best time to have this procedure done. The cost of vet treatment for a Vizsla will vary depending on the nature of the treatment, your location, and the vets you choose.
Ongoing costs
When it comes to food, these pooches need a high quality dog food packed with vitamins and natural ingredients. This can cost between £30 and £60 per month. On top of this, you’ll also have booster vaccinations, flea and worm treatments and regular accessories like poop bags to buy.
Insurance costs
As they’re prone to a few health problems, it’s highly recommended to purchase pet insurance should anything happen. The exact cost of insurance is based on your location, your dog’s age, breed, medical history and the type of cover you choose. Pet insurance prices vary wildly so always compare to get the right protection. (The average annual cost to insure a pedigree dog without any pre-existing conditions is around £403. This might sound a lot but you can’t put a price on peace of mind.)
Get to know the Vizsla even more with these interesting tidbits and tales!
Vizslas have a top speed of 40 mph, which gives Greyhounds a good run for their money. However, Greyhounds are the fastest dog breed, with a top speed of 45 mph.
Vizslas originate from dogs that were bred to hunt alongside falcons. Stone etchings discovered by archeologists depict a Magyar hunter with his falcon and dog, which would later become the modern-day Vizsla.
Vizslas are super tough and resilient, having survived civil and world wars. They survived the Turkish occupation (1526-1696), the Hungarian Civil War (1848-49), World War I, World War II and the Russian Occupation. World War II almost wiped them out, but they bounced back with their unmistakable Vizsla vigour!
Vizslas love to swim but they don’t have an insulating undercoat, so it’s best they don’t go for a dip curing cold weather.
A Vizsla’s eyes are actually blue-green when they’re first born. They fade to grey before turning into the striking yellow-brown colour that we could gaze into all day! These eyes match their coat colour, making Vizslas experts at camouflaging during hunts.
Dogs similar to the Vizsla include Weimaraners and German Shorthaired Pointers. Often called the grey version of a Vizsla dog, Weimaraners are larger, with a more independent temperament and a striking silver-grey coat, while German Shorthaired Pointers are known for their versatility, energetic nature, and distinctive brown and white coat, making them excellent all-round hunting dogs. In fact, both of these dogs started with Vizsla lines, as Vizslas were used in their development.
What happens when you cross a Vizsla with a Weimaraner? You get a Vizmaraner! These large athletic dogs have a sleek coat in either silver, grey, or copper and are perfect for outdoorsy owners.
You can get other stunning Vizsla cross breeds too. The Vizsla Labrador cross is called a Labrala, the Vizsla Poodle mix is called a Vizsladoodle, and the Boxer Vizsla cross is called a Boxsla.
The Vizsla’s story is as rich as their warm russet coats! There’s evidence to suggest these dogs have roots dating back to the 10th century, where the Magyar tribes of Hungary bred them to be versatile hunting companions. Agile and intelligent, Vizslas excelled at both pointing and retrieving, making them indispensable for their hunter-warrior owners. Their speed and stamina helped them thrive across Hungary's vast plains, earning them a reputation as the ultimate multitasking gundog.
By the early 20th century, Vizslas were well-established dogs, but the ravages of World War I and II brought this breed to the brink of extinction. With Hungary caught in the crossfire, many Vizslas were lost. However, thanks to a few passionate breeders who smuggled dogs out of the country to preserve the breeding lines, the Vizsla survived.
Over the years, the breed slowly regained its numbers, and was officially recognised by the UK Kennel Club in 1953. Ever since, they've continued to win hearts worldwide with their affectionate nature and vibrant Vizsla personality.
Before you bring a new furry friend into your life, you need to know you’re getting it from a reputable source. To help you navigate this decision, here are some essential tips for buying or adopting a Vizsla.
1. Research the breed. Vizsla are a high-energy breed that needs vigorous exercise and hates being left alone, so you need to make sure your lifestyle is suited.
2. Ask potential breeders for references from previous customers, veterinarians, or other breeders. This will help you get an idea of their reputation and the health of their dogs.
3. Beware of scammers. A genuine seller will never ask for money upfront before seeing the dogs, and will always offer for you to see them in person before making a commitment. Also be wary if the price is significantly cheaper than other listings.
4. Always visit the breeder in person to see the mother with her Vizsla puppies and to check the environment. A responsible breeder or seller will never release the pups before they’re eight week olds.
5. Watch out for people who breed multiple breeds at once. This is a sign they might not have the expertise on Vizslas and don’t prioritise their dogs’ health.
6. A reputable breeder will provide a health guarantee for your puppy, including paperwork about their lineage, vaccinations and microchipping.
When adopting a Vizsla, research the shelter to ensure they’re a reputable rescue organisation, and meet with their adoption specialist to discuss your lifestyle, needs and dog ownership experience. Vizslas in shelters may have complex medical conditions or be quite senior, so you’ll need to ensure you have the time, love and dedication to give them a happy fur-ever home.
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