The Hungarian Vizsla is a dog breed originating in Hungary. Vizslas are known as excellent hunting dogs, and also have a level personality making them suited for families.
History: The Vizsla is classified as a rare breed. They originated in Hungary in the 8th century as a hunting dog, although owning this breed was a symbol of aristocracy. They were nearly extinct after WWII. The Vizsla was revived by the Hungarians who smuggled their beloved breed out of the country for fear of them being desecrated.
Appearance: The Vizsla is a sleek, muscular, medium-sized hunting dog with a beautiful rusty-gold colored short coat. Its form enables it to be fast and graceful with high endurance. Its gait is smooth and light, and it can cover a lot of ground. They have medium sized eyes in a color that matches their coat. Their ears are thin and long and rounded at the tips. The coat is short, smooth, dense and close-lying, without woolly undercoat. Permissible colors are golden russet from a rusty gold to a dark sandy yellow. Eyes must harmonize with the coat color and the nose must be brown rather than black.
Size: Height: dogs - 22-26 inches (56-66cm); bitches - 20-24 inches (51-61cm)
Weight: dogs - 45-60 pounds (20-27kg); bitches - 40-55 pounds (18-25kg)
Temperament: Loving, demonstrative and gentle, the Vizsla is somewhat willful and distractible, but smart and trainable. This breed needs a patient, firm hand. They get along well with older children and in most cases other dogs. They will tolerate cats they are raised with. This breed is friendly and sociable and adapts well to family life. It can be protective and will make a good watchdog. They quickly form close bonds with their owners. They are natural hunters with an excellent ability to take training. Not only are they great pointers, but they are excellent retrievers as well.
Health: Watch for hip dysplasia, emtropian, PRA, epilepsy, Von Willebrand’s disease, lymphosarcoma, cranial muscular atrophy.
Life expectancy: 10-15 years
Grooming: This smooth, short-haired coat is easy to keep in peak condition. Brush with a firm bristle brush, and dry shampoo occasionally. Bathe with mild soap only when necessary. The nails should be kept trimmed. These dogs are average shedders.
Puppy price: $400.00 - $1.000.00