Full of energy, love and attention, a Hungarian Vizsla will have you walking new tracks and laughing in no time at all.

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Feel like you’re being shadowed all day? No, you aren’t loopy, you just happen to own a Hungarian Vizsla. Aptly nicknamed ‘Velcro Vizsla’, this spunky, intelligent breed likes nothing more than gluing themselves to their human companions. They are lively, athletic and boast an above-average learning ability, which is why they need a family that not only enjoys a 24/7 ‘foot-warmer’, but one that can also provide ample physical and mental stimulation.

Hungarian Vizslas are good family dogs for active households. They are hard-working, versatile pets who are happiest with a job, be it jogging with you, carrying your bags or playing fetch. Their keen senses also make them great watchdogs. They tend to be too boisterous for toddlers, but are trustworthy with (older) children and can play with them for hours without tiring. They are best suited to a dwelling with a yard, as they love to run around. A Vizsla will stop growing around 12-18 months of age.

Fun fact: A Vizsla has many cat-like traits. While they don’t purr,

they are a self-cleaning dog and possess little, if any, doggy odour.

Vizslas tend to whine, moan, hum, and make any noise to voice their ‘opinion’. But they are eager to please and learn quickly, so they can be trained to stop the ‘conversation’. They are a sensitive breed, so be firm yet gentle while training them. Shower them with ample attention, exercise and interaction and you’ll have found yourself a new best friend.

Simply put, Hungarian Vizslas need a lot of exercise. If you’re a bookworm or a couch potato, this breed is not for you. Long daily brisk walks and jogs are a must. A romp in the yard is a good idea too. Vizslas are mermaid dogs – they love the water so schedule swimming time too. Invest in balls and toys, as they enjoy retrieving. A lack of ample physical stimulation and you’ll have to deal with a bored, destructive pet.

However, while the Vizsla needs an extensive exercise routine, their grooming schedule is short and simple. Their short, smooth-haired coat is easy to maintain. With regular brushing and an occasional dry shampoo, your Vizsla is good to go. Trim their nails regularly. They are average shedders.

Scheduled six monthly health check visits with your vet are important to ensure that your dog is healthy and happy throughout all life stages. This breed is relatively healthy and suffers from few problems. However, hip dysplasia and some eye diseases can occur. Together with your vet, you can determine and maintain a preventative health care program based on the individual needs of your canine companion.

Size

A Hungarian Vizsla is a large-sized breed weighing between 20-30kgs, with a height between 54-62cms.

Space

They are best suited to a yard, due to their active nature.  

Energy Levels

The equivalent of a marathon runner, they just go and go and go. Daily walks and lots of games are ideal for keeping this breed fit. The more exercise the better.

Difficulty of Training

They are intelligent and eager to please. With consistent training, they are great socialised pets.

Family Suitability

They are loyal companions and great family pets but are best suited to older children.  

Compatibility with other Pets

A Hungarian Vizsla will make friends with other pets.

Need for Company

They have a high need for company and enjoy spending time with their family. They are often nicknamed ‘Velcro Vizsla’ for their tendency to shadow the family.

Hypoallergenic Dog Breed?

No

Coat and Grooming Needs

This breed is low-maintenance. They have a short, russet gold coat. Brush it weekly.  

Shedding

They shed moderately.

Tendency to Bark

They have a low tendency to bark, so don’t expect frequent conversations.

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