The Vizsla is a dog breed originating in Hungary, which belongs under the FCI group 7 (pointer group). The Hungarian or Magyar Vizsla are sporting dogs and loyal companions, in addition to being the smallest of the all-round pointer-retriever breeds.
The Vizsla's medium size is one of the breed's most appealing characteristics as a hunter of fowl and upland game, and through the centuries the Vizsla has held a rare position among sporting dogs – that of household companion and family dog.
The Vizsla is a natural hunter endowed with an excellent nose and an outstanding trainability. Although they are lively, gentle mannered, demonstrably affectionate and sensitive, they are also fearless and possessed of a well-developed protective instinct.
Appearance
The Vizsla is a medium-sized short-coated hunting dog of distinguished appearance and bearing robust but rather lightly built, they are lean dogs, have defined muscles, and are observed to share similar physical characteristics with the Weimaraner.The body structure of a Vizsla is very similar in appearance to a Weimaraner and a Redbone Coonhound, though the Vizsla is typically leaner with a more defined musculature. Weimaraners and Rhodesian Ridgebacks are larger than Vizslas. The nose of the Vizsla will always have a reddish color that blends with the coat color. Black, brown, light pink, or another color nose is an indication of another breed. Eyes and nails should also blend with it as well.
Color and coats
The standard coat is a solid golden-rust color. The coat could also be described as a copper/brown color, russet gold and dark sandy gold.The American Kennel Club (AKC) breed standard for the Vizsla states that the coat should be short, smooth, dense and close-lying, without woolly undercoat. The Vizsla is totally unsuited to being kept outside, since unlike most other breeds, it does not have an undercoat. They are self-cleaning dogs and infrequently need to be bathed, if ever, and are somewhat unique in that they have little noticeable "dog smell" detectable by humans. After several forays into lakes and streams they will develop an aroma that is a weaker version of the 'wet dog' smell. A quick bath and this odor will vanish.
Size
The Vizsla is a medium-sized dog, and fanciers feel that large dogs are undesirable. The average height and weight:- Males
- Height: 22–25 inches
- Weight: 45–66 pounds
- Females
- Height: 21–24 in
- Weight: 40–55 lb
Tail
The American breed standard calls for the tail to be docked to two-thirds of its original length. The Vizsla holds its tail horizontal to the ground and wags it vigorously while charging through rough scrub and undergrowth. It is normal for a dog with their tail intact to have white on their tail. It does not mean they aren't pure Vizsla.Since the tail is docked when the puppy is less than three days old, this longer dock can result in some variation in tail length among Vizsla dogs from different breeding programs.Temperament/Training
Vizslas are very high energy, gentle-mannered, loyal, caring, and highly affectionate. They quickly form close bonds with their owners, children and even strangers. Often they are referred to as "velcro" dogs because of their loyalty and affection. Whenever these dogs feel neglected, want something or they aren't happy with doing something they will cry or whine. Some will bark at strangers if they feel that they are invading the "pack" space. They are quite good watch dogs when trained.They are natural hunters with an excellent ability to take training. Not only are they great pointers, but they are excellent retrievers as well. They will retrieve on land and in the water, making the most of their natural instincts. However, they must be trained gently and without harsh commands or strong physical correction, as they have sensitive temperaments and can be easily damaged if trained too harshly. But training them too softly will cause them to take over the training session with them eating all the treats without doing anything.
Vizslas are excellent swimmers. Some may need a little motivation to get in the water but as they get used to it they will love it. Like all hunting dogs, Vizslas require a great deal of exercise to remain healthy and happy.
The Vizsla thrives on attention, exercise, and interaction. With proper socialization and training, Vizslas are very gentle dogs that are great around children. The Vizsla wants to be close to its owner as much as possible. Many Vizslas will sleep in bed with their owners and, if allowed, burrow under the covers. Vizslas have been compared to horses in their tendency to "trot" rather than run and some "wiggle" their backsides as they walk.
- information found of Wikipedia
If you are considering a Vizsla do your research!
Vizslas are a very specific "type" of dog that requires a lot of attention, exercise, and training. Check these websites out for more information and always adopt a puppy from a reputable breeder.
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