Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history of the Vizsla?

The Vizsla, or Hungarian Pointer, is thought to be one of the oldest sporting breeds – originating in Hungary, developed and fiercely protected by the Magyar (Hungarian) people. The Vizsla, was prized by the land-owning aristocracy as an all-round hunting dog, family companion and discriminating protector. The Vizsla's habitat was the Hungarian plains - a warm and fertile region where partridge and other game birds flourished. Between World War I and World War II, the Vizsla nearly became extinct. Hungarians who fled the Russian occupation in 1945 smuggled their beloved dogs out of the country. The Vizsla first appeared in Canada in the early 1950s and was officially recognized by the Canadian Kennel Club in 1958.

Describe the Vizsla.

Known originally as the ‘Golden Gun Dog’, the Vizsla is one of the smallest of the pointing breeds. The average height of a male is 23” at the wither, the female about 22”. It conveys the impression of an alert, muscular, well-balanced animal with a distinctive and aristocratic appearance. Vizslas have beautiful, soft, rust-colored coats that require very little maintenance. They do shed, which especially shows up against black clothes. They're clean dogs and have very little odor. There is also another related breed which is less common, the Wirehaired Vizsla. The Wirehaired Vizsla breed is also recognized by the CKC.

The Standard is the physical ‘blueprint’ of the breed. It describes the physical appearance and other desired qualities of the breed otherwise known as type. Some characteristics, such as size, coat quality, and movement, are based on the original (or current) function for the dog. Other characteristics are more cosmetic such as eye color; but taken together they set this breed apart from all others.

The Standard describes an ideal representative of the breed. No individual dog is perfect, but the Standard provides an ideal for the breeder to strive towards.
Please refer to the Canadian Kennel Club as well as the Vizsla Society of Ontario website (vsovizsla.org) for more specific details on the Vizsla (smooth-haired) and the Vizsla (wire-haired) breed standards.

What is the characteristics and temperament of a Vizsla?

One of the best ways to describe the Vizsla temperament is to dub him an ‘aristocratic clown’. He is an animal of very high energy and demands an unusual amount of attention from his owners. He does, however, have a strong desire to please and is easy to train. The key to his training is to find the right balance for his innate sensitivity and occasional stubbornness. His people are very important to him and their company is one of his major priorities. Because he is so tuned into his owners, he is capable of becoming a master of control to get his way.

Vizslas are unusually demonstrative and loving, traits which serve him well in getting what they want. They are very touch-oriented and prefer to be in contact with their people at all times. Vizslas will accompany their people everywhere, including into the bathroom and shower. Vizslas can live successfully in a variety of situations but, unless you are willing and able to provide for their special needs and appreciate constant canine companionship, you both will be unhappy.

Vizslas are outstanding hunters and will both point and retrieve. They have very sensitive noses, good eyesight and a natural enthusiasm for the hunt. It's fantastic to watch a Vizsla lock up on point - it's hard to find words to express their grace, beauty and intensity. Field trials are a large part of most Vizsla club's activity schedules. Although Vizslas are primarily known for their skill in hunting upland game birds such as pheasant, quail and grouse, they are also used for hunting waterfowl and even small fur animals. Most Vizslas are strong swimmers and should be introduced to water when they're young.

How long do Vizslas live? Does the breed have any specific health issues?

In general, Vizslas are an extremely healthy breed and it is common for them to have a life span of over 14 years.

Vizslas were susceptible to hip dysplasia, although careful breeding has kept this problem to a minimum (but not eliminated) in the breed. All Vizslas that are going to be bred should be x-rayed and certified clear of hip dysplasia by the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals), OVC (Ontario Veterinary Collage) or PennHip. X-rays should be taken after the age of 24 months, when a definitive diagnosis can be made. If you are purchasing a puppy, make sure that both parents have been OFA, OVC or PennHip certified. Many Vizsla breeders also x-ray their dog’s elbows, have them tested for von Willebrand’s disease (an inherited bleeding disorder), their eyes tested and certified clear by CERF (Canine Eye Registration Foundation), their heart tested, as well as testing for any thyroid disorders.

Some Vizslas are prone to skin and/or food allergies. They can be sensitive to anesthesia used during surgeries and it is recommended that owners consult their veterinarian regarding the use of a special anesthesia, such as isofluorine gas, during surgery. Vizslas may be sensitive to other drugs as well, consult your veterinarian for more information.

Other less common genetic diseases in Vizslas include hemophilia, sebaceous adenitis, tail defects, and epilepsy.

How much exercise do Vizslas require?

Vizslas do require daily exercise, which should include running, not just walking. If you work during the day a good 45 min run in the morning and evening will keep your Vizsla happy. Not everyone is capable of maintaining this level of exercise, particularly if you do not have access to safe, open spaces. They should have companionship and toys so that they do not become bored. A bored Vizsla can become a destructive Vizsla.

Can a Vizsla live in the city?

Providing they have plenty of exercise, a warm, dry place to stay, and love and attention, a Vizsla will adapt to city life without any problems.

Do Vizslas get along well with children, cats and other dogs?

Like most dogs, Vizslas who are well socialized will get along very well with children, cats, and other dogs. They love affection and companionship. In general, the more people and animals that are around them, the happier they are.

Do Vizslas make good watch dogs?

Generally Vizslas are very sociable dogs who love visitors coming to the house. They are likely to announce a visitor’s presence by barking and then greeting the visitor with kisses and butt wiggles until all attention is focused on them.

Do Vizslas make good jogging partners?

Vizslas have excellent stamina and would enjoy the companionship and exercise. They should not be introduced into jogging until they are at least 18 months of age to allow for the growth plates in their bones to fully mature. Of course, making a Vizsla a pleasant jogging partner requires lots of positive obedience training with an emphasis on leash manners!

Can Vizslas jump fences?

Vizslas are extremely agile and can easily clear a fence over six feet (and some Vizslas may be even more "talented"). They do require a securely fenced yard, and most breeders will require this as a condition of ownership. Usually, a Vizsla will not jump high fences to leave his yard unless he is bored or lonely.

Are there Vizsla rescue agencies?

Regrettably, even lovable Viszlas are abandoned by irresponsible owners. The VSO has a rescue operation that on occasion has rescued Viszlas that are available for re-homing. Please see our Rescue Page for more information.