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CaninpediaDog Breeds

Hungarian Vizsla

An elegant, toast-coloured pointing dog, the Vizsla is gentle, sensitive and extremely attached to its family: a true 'velcro dog'.

Photo of the Hungarian Vizsla dog breed
Photo: Pleple2000 — CC BY-SA 3.0 (source)

History and origins

The Vizsla is an old Hungarian hunting dog, prized by the Magyar nobility for pointing and retrieving game on the plains.

Nearly lost after the two World Wars, it was saved and has spread around the world.

Temperament

Gentle, affectionate and sensitive, the Vizsla constantly seeks contact with its family. It is excellent with children and learns very quickly.

It copes poorly with loneliness and harshness; positive training works very well.

Health

This is a fairly healthy breed. Epilepsy, hip dysplasia and some autoimmune diseases should be monitored.

Regular veterinary follow-up is recommended.

Leishmaniasis prevention is important.

This is general information. For any question about your dog's health, consult a veterinarian.

Feeding

Good-quality food matched to its intense activity suits it.

Avoid exercise just after meals.

Exercise

It needs at least two hours of daily activity: running, hunting, canicross and retrieving games.

It is an ideal companion for athletes.

It needs a house with a garden and an active family who are at home most of the time.

Grooming

Its short coat needs weekly brushing. It has little odour.

It feels the cold in winter.

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