The Vizsla is also known as the Hungarian Pointer. His name in Hungarian
means "alert" or "responsive." His ancestry was lost
through time but was probably hunters that accompanied the Magyars who settled
Hungary during the Middle Ages. The breed adapted well to hunting on the
plains of Hungary. He is a close working hunter who is swift, has a superior
nose, and cautious enough not to alert his quarry in the open fields. Both
World Wars almost led to the extinction of the breed but fanciers were able
to preserve it. The Vizsla was introduced into the United States in 1950
and recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1960.
The Vizsla is a distinguished looking dog with aristocratic bearing. He
hunts both on land and water. He is also a gentle and friendly companion
that is demonstratively affectionate. He needs plenty of exercise and does
better in country life than in urban living.
The head of the Vizsla is lean and muscular. He has a Pointer appearance.
The skull is moderately wide between the ears. The drop off between skull
and muzzle (stop) is moderate. The muzzle is equal to or slightly shorter
than the skull. The ears are thin and silky. They are set fairly low and
hang close to the cheek. The eyes are medium in size and depth. The iris
color should blend with the coat color. The muzzle is square and deep. The
nose is brown. The jaws are strong with scissors bite. The neck is strong,
smooth and muscular. It is moderately long and arched. The body is strong
with a short back. The topline is slightly rounded over the loin. The chest
is moderately broad and deep, reaching to below the elbow. The legs are
straight and muscular. The feet are round and cat-like. The tail is set
low. It is thick at the root and docked to one-third of the length. It is
carried horizontally. The coat is either wire or smooth. The wire coat is
not recognized in the United States or Britain. The smooth coat is short,
smooth, dense and close lying. The only accepted coat color is solid golden
rust. Small white spots are acceptable. The ideal height is between 21 and
24 inches. Ideal weight is between fifty and sixty pounds.
Name withheld by request of Michigan writes:
Absolutely wonderful!
The Vizsla breed is an absolutely wonderful family companion, hunting
dog, show dog, etc. Anything you ask them to do they will do it as long
as it is with you. The breed is called "Velcro Vizsla" because
they absolutely love to be with their owners. They are wonderful with children,
of course as with any breed the child needs to understand how to treat and
care for the dog. Overall this is one of the best breeds for any type of
situation.
ruggersmith@hotmail.com of Maryland writes:
A child that never grows up.
My Vizsla only has two speeds: tearing around the house and asleep.
They like room to run, plenty of toys, and most importantly ... attention.
Vizslas are clowns that will do anything to be the center of attention.
Mine sleeps under the covers and tries to sit in my lap. This is one of
the cleanest most intelligent and obedient dogs I've ever had. Mine never
calmed down (she's eight years old and still acts like a puppy p; will
play with anything that moves), but I know others who are really laid-back
so I think it depends on the dog. Mine did fine for a period of time in
a small townhouse with daily walks but they'd much rather be out chasing
squirrels.
amebud1@aol.com of Georgia writes:
A breed without equal for beauty, intelligence, and personality.
Vizslas are a breed apart. All dogs have their special traits that make
them different from others. Usually it is something distinct about a dog's
appearance or maybe a spectacular temperament. Sometimes it might be that
the dog is supposed to be extraordinarily bright or especially good with
children. Some breeds may be classified as great hunters and others as true
guardians of the home. A Vizsla is all of these things and many more.
It is a breed that makes people stop their cars as they drive by to ask,
"What kind of dog is that?" It is the kind of dog that won't let
you sleep in the morning because there are always things to do. It is the
kind of dog that has to help you open the presents on Christmas morning,
in hopes that there is something there for him. The kind of dog that belongs
in a yard and not in an apartment. The kind of dog that you can raise with
your kids and provide them with a lifetime of laughs and memories. The kind
of dog that sits in the front seat of the car, with a seat belt on, while
drivers chase after you to meet "the dog." The kind of dog that
requires your participation in his life; not a dog to sit in the corner
until you get around to him. The kind of dog that you didn't think existed
until you owned one.
You won't see many of them. They are kind of rare compared to most breeds.
Once you see one, you won't forget it. If you own one, you immediately become
a protective parent of the breed because you want them to always be this
good. Each one is a member of a very exclusive, distinct breed that is part-clown,
part-athlete, part-companion, and part-genius. Most of all, they will always
be part of your family. Truly, a breed apart.
rezell@choice.net of Ohio writes on 4/5/00:
You should be educated before buying this breed.
The Vizsla is a fantastic breed IF you take the time to train a very soft,
intelligent, inventive, exercise demanding, velcro dog. They are capable
of bringing great joy, they are capable of destroying a home. Do not be
fooled by pictures. Read a lot, talk to lots of breeders, and make sure
that this breed is for you. Make sure that you are talking to a breeder
that has the best interest of the breed at heart. Contact the Vizsla Club
of America for information about taking in a rescued Vizsla and to get information
about the breed.