Adya

The minute you set your eyes on a Vizsla, it becomes obvious that this is a hunting dog. They are gracious and lean, it is almost impossible to imagine an overweight Vizsla.

Vizslas are medium-sized dogs, very athletic and they love spending time with their humans, preferably lying right next to them, or on them. They have a beautiful sleek coat, and grooming is a breeze. Even when they shed, chances are you will more of your own hair around the house than theirs.

When it comes to this breed, first thing to always keep in mind is that they need exercise, a lot of exercise. Like with all working dogs, Vizslas a never-ending need for movement, so if you are thinking about adopting one, know that you will need around two hours daily to satisfy their thirst for exercise. They are stimulated by outdoor activities, so if you are a hiking/biking/walking type of person, a Vizsla will thrive by your side. If you prefer a dog that is on the lazy, more relaxed side, then the Vizsla may not be the right dog for you.

If you condemn this breed to a solitary life with close to no activities, be sure that they will become extremely nervous and hyperactive, not to mention that they will bark all the time. They also easily become destructive chewers, and that is not good news for your shoes and/or furniture. Vizslas suffer from separation anxiety more than most dogs, and they don’t take well being away from their humans for longer than a few hours. Not only will they bark nonstop while you’re away, but they will also jump around the house, chew on anything and be very nervous even when you come home. If you can’t be at home for most of your time, do not adopt a Vizsla.

This breed is very friendly, and they have no problem meeting new people and cuddling with them couple of minutes later. Vizslas tend to be timid and withdrawn if they are not properly socialized from an early age, which is why it is important to get them used to loud sounds and unusual situations from the start, so that they don’t get scared or traumatized. They are very gentle and affectionate, and they need all the love they can get all the time, even though they seem strong and independent. One of the more endearing characteristics of these pooches is that they like to lean against you, so don’t be surprised if you are sitting on your couch, and your dog ends up leaning on your back or crawling into your lap, despite their size. This is simultaneously adorable and makes it pretty obvious just how much affection and care they really need.

Paul Higley

When it comes to training Vizslas, they are easier to train than most pointing breeds, but they have a special mindset, which should be taken into consideration if you plan on them living in the house. This breed learns simple commands easily, but they are also very good in advanced obedience training, and can be very successful in competitions. Vizslas are versatile and open, but can be easily distracted, especially if they catch an interesting smell or sound, or see something that completely takes their attention. This why training is crucial from an early age – you have to be the authority that can reach them even when they are most distracted. Respect training might be the best solution for their distractedness, and you must start very early for it to have optimal results.

One more element of the Vizsla’s personality is their incline to jump around… a lot! When they’re younger, you don’t want them to get too excited, otherwise you risk half of your house being knocked down along with yourself, thanks to the Vizsla’s bounciness. They like to play, they are excellent with children, even with other animals and they have no problem in sharing their space with pretty much anyone. They don’t like being alone.

Vizslas do suffer from some genetic health issues, so their visits to the veterinarian should be frequent. Skin problems, epilepsy, as well as seizures endanger this breed the most, along with hip dysplasia and cancer. As mentioned before, Vizslas are very sensitive, both in their temperament and health.

With Vizsla in your home you get an active and gentle four-legged friend that will be attached to you and your family. They will be a smart pooch that needs authority and socialization to thrive and a wonderful companion on your adventures.

Vizsla Temperament: What’s Good About ‘Em, What’s Bad About ‘Em