by Tyler Elliot

The Vizsla is a breed of dog that originated from Hungary and is widely known today as an outstanding sporting dog and a reliable companion. Eighth century paintings of the Magyar tribe of Hungary suggest that the Vizsla has been around during these times serving as a companion dog to the tribe hunters. Centuries later, this dog is still being adored by legions of enthusiasts around the globe as an excellent hunting dog.

The Vizsla is a distinguished hunter and has been accompanying legions of hunters during hunting trips for centuries. These fanciers discovered that not only does this breed have a great skill in smelling but in retrieving and pointing as well. So together with the fact that it is the smallest breed of its type, the Vizsla is being recognized as the smallest of all all-round pointer breeds.

In terms of body build, the Vizsla is robust, light and lean with defined musculature; and stately in posture and bearing. However, this breed is often mistaken for a Weimaraner, Redbone Coonhound or Rhodesian Ridgeback since they all seem to share similar body build and coat colors. So in order to point out the real Vizsla, remember that it must possess a nose that is of reddish shade, which blends with the coat color.

Moreover, the nails and eyes of a real Vizsla should also blend with the coat color. The standard coat color for this breed is solid golden-rust but there are some litters that are born solid rust-colored. Copper or brown, gold and dark sandy gold are some shades that are acceptable for this breed.

As stated by the American Kennel Club, the Vizsla should have a coat that is “short, smooth, dense and close-lying, without woolly undercoat”. The absence of an undercoat makes this dog susceptible to cold so it is recommended to never leave it alone outside for a very long time. However, this condition also suggests that he is more desirable to people who have allergic reactions to dog hair.

The Vizsla also gives off a distinct “smell” that’s easily recognizable by humans and that it is a self-cleaning dog that’s why bathing is only required as once in a while. Additionally, the breed standard requires this dog’s tail to be docked by 2/3 of its original length for safety issues. If left undocked, this breed’s tail tends to split and bleed, eventually leading to a more painful amputation later in life.

Aside from being a superb hunter, the Vizsla is also considered as a wonderful companion because it is energetic, gentle, loving and sensitive. It is a loyal dog to the master and tends to want constant attention and affection. It goes where the master goes and because of this, it is called the “Velcro dog”.

This breed has also a protective instinct because it tends to fight back whenever it is provoked or threatened. It is also very smart and highly biddable but should not be handled using harsh criticisms and forceful physical corrections because it tends to get hurt emotionally too easily. It is also an avid swimmer and in fact would jump on a pool whenever it sees one; thus, it makes a good retriever not only in land but in water as well.

About the Author:
Know countless of interesting information about the Hungarian Vizsla from author Tyler Elliot. Just check out his website and read articles such as Vizsla adoption, Vizsla breeders, Vizsla puppies and more!

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