A robust, noble-looking, medium-sized dog, the adult male Hungarian Vizsla comes with a wiry, dense coat. They are extremely affectionate and full of energy, making them perfect for an active household.
| Lifespan: | 12-15 years |
| Weight: | Between 20kg-30kg |
| Height: | 57-64cm for males and 53-60cm for females |
| Colours: | An eye-catching reddish-gold colouring |
| Size: | Medium |
| Kennel Club group: | Gundog |
| 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 |
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.
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.
The Hungarian Vizsla is generally a healthy breed. The most common breed specific problems are a swallowing disorder and epilepsy.
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.
Like most gundogs, Hungarian Vizslas cannot do well in urban environments. They are large, active, country dogs that need space both inside and out.
The Hungarian Vizsla needs to have a balanced dog diet including all the main nutrient groups and 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 in accordance with the feeding guidelines of their particular food.
The wiry coat is easy to care for and requires very little maintenance – just a weekly brush along with checking for any lumps, bumps and injuries picked up from charging their undergrowth. Check out our easy dog grooming tips.
Vizslas 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.
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.
