Vizsla Information

It's already a given that Vizslas are a beautiful and elegant looking breed. But that's the wrong reason to add one to your family. Because they were originally bred to be a hunting companion (i.e. lots and lots of running in the field), they are a very high-energy breed. Vizslas are not your "walk around the neighborhood" kind of a dog. If you enjoy the great outdoors and exercising, a Vizsla might be the right match for you. But Vizslas shouldn't be matched to humans based on exercise levels alone. Vizslas are also very needy in temperament and love frequent cuddles with their human companions. There is an old Hungarian saying, "If you own a Vizsla, it lives on top of your head." This is a most accurate saying and why Vizslas are often described as "Velcro Vizslas". Be warned, if you bring a Vizsla into your home you may never go to the bathroom alone again! For some owners this can be endearing, for others it may be annoying.

Vizslas are very high-energy dogs and are extremely smart but generally slower to mature. This means you will most likely end up with a puppy until they're closer to 4 years old. But this also means that, while Vizslas should be biddable in temperament and therefore very trainable, they may not be the best candidates for those looking to compete at advanced levels with a very young dog. Like a fine wine, Vizslas get better with age!

And yes, Vizslas shed just as much as other dogs. It's just harder to see because their hair is so short. They don't have an undercoat so that also gives the impression that they don't shed. If you like wearing black you might find yourself eliminating this color choice from your wardrobe as you grow tired of plucking little red hairs from the fabric. Source: Rocky Mountain Vizsla Club (www.rmvc.org)

Vizslas are large, powerful and athletic dogs who love to run, jump, and twist and bounce around. They take a lot of time to meet their eventual social, intellectual and exercise needs. They can run into AND over small children (and small adults) and often household objects can go flying. The most common reason Vizslas are turned into Rescue is because the owners cannot manage the time and energy required to keep the Vizsla happy with the demands of their busy household (school, events, obligations and time). In general, myself and other responsible breeders do not suggest the breed for those with children in or around the house less than 8 years of age.

Vizsla Basics:

• Vizslas need plenty of off-leash exercise well into their adulthood and owners will make the commitment to provide this necessity.
• Vizslas are generally soft in temperament which means they need heavy socialization especially as young dogs, and throughout their entire lives.
• Vizslas are very intelligent and can get themselves into trouble if left unsupervised for long periods of time. Crate training is required for this breed.