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Breeds 101: Meet the Vizsla

By Clare Browning

BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 09: Hungarian Vizsla look out of their kennel on the fourth and final day of Crufts dog show at the NEC on March 9, 2014 in Birmingham, England. Said to be the largest show of its kind in the world, the annual four-day event, features thousands of dogs, with competitors travelling from countries across the globe to take part. Crufts, which was first held in 1891 and sees thousands of dogs vie for the coveted title of 'Best in Show'. (Photo by Matt Cardy/Getty Images)
BIRMINGHAM, ENGLAND - MARCH 09: Hungarian Vizsla look out of their kennel on the fourth and final day of Crufts dog show at the NEC on March 9, 2014 in Birmingham, England. Said to be the largest show of its kind in the world, the annual four-day event, features thousands of dogs, with competitors travelling from countries across the globe to take part. Crufts, which was first held in 1891 and sees thousands of dogs vie for the coveted title of 'Best in Show'. (Photo by Matt Cardy/Getty Images) /
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The Vizsla, sometimes known as the Hungarian Pointer, has been praised for centuries for its versatility and easily recognized by their striking red color. Today the Vizsla makes its appearance in the “Breeds 101” series.

Originating in Hungary from the dogs of the Magyar tribes, the Vizsla is thought to be one of the oldest hunting dogs. After two World Wars the Vizsla was on the brink of extinction, a group of Hungarian sportsman had kept a small stock of the breed which helped to revive it. The first Vizsla to come to the United States was actually smuggled out of Hungary.

According to the American Kennel Club breed standard the Vizsla is a “medium-sized, short-coated, hunting dog of distinguished appearance and bearing. Robust but rather lightly built, the coat is an attractive shaded golden rust.” “Agile and energetic, this is a versatile dog of power, drive and endurance in the field yet a tractable and affectionate companion in the home.”

Golden rust is the only standard color for the Vizsla though they are often just called red. Vizslas typically stand 2-24 inches (male), 21-23 inches (female) and usually weigh about 55-60 pounds (male), 44-55 pounds (female). The average life expectancy for Vizslas is 12-14 years.

The Vizsla are known for their striking red color and versatile skill set; nicknamed the velcro dog, they are eager to please and love to be around their people.

The short single coat of the Vizsla keeps grooming requirements to a minimum. A good brushing to help with shedding and regular nail trims and ear cleaning keeps them in good condition.

Energy is to be expected with the Vizsla, they were bred to work and are actually retrievers and pointers. In addition to playtime and short walks, these dogs thrive if given the ability to run full out while off-leash on a regular basis to help keep them satisfied. They can also make great jogging or hiking partners.

Highly intelligent, these dogs need to be given a job others they can get creative in ways to use their energy and could let it out in unsatisfactory ways. Their curious nature and willingness to please allows them to thrive when given proper training opportunities. Vizslas can be found in the field as a gundog, in the show ring, competing in dog sports, as service or therapy dogs, and happily snuggled up with their family.

Generally a very healthy dog there are a couple conditions to keep an eye out for and make sure breeding stock has been tested for in advance if possible. Concerns noted by the Vizsla Club of America include: cancer, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye disorders, including melanosis or entropion, seasonal allergies, epilepsy, and ear infections.

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Vizslas have made themselves at home with many famous faces. Drew Lynch, comedian and former America’s Got Talent star, has a service dog named Stella who is featured on multiple YouTube series called “Dog Vlog” and “Therapy Dog” Former White House Press Secretary Dana Perino has owned two different Vizslas and released a book a book about her current pup Jasper.

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