Vizsla

  

Summary:

• The breed is a standing bird dog with a great need to use its hunting skills.
• The Hungarian Vizsla is friendly and very social.
• Correct adaptation to the dog’s characteristics is important for it to function well in the family.

History:The Hungarian Vizsla is considered Hungary’s national dog breed. Although it is difficult to trace the origins of the breed, its history begins in the 9th century when the warring nomadic tribes, the Magyars, moved into the plains of the Carpathians – today’s Hungary. The Magyars brought hunting dogs with them which mixed with local dogs. Later mixing with the Turks’ yellow dogs during the Turkish invasion in the 16th and 17th centuries led to the development of the Hungarian Vizsla.The word “vizsla” originally meant “seek” or “search” in Hungarian, but is now mostly used in the sense of bird dog. In the centuries that followed, the vizsla was owned by the hunting nobility of Hungary. Before the age of firearms, the Vizsla was used for bird hunting with nets and falcons. It was used for all types of bird hunting, both on land and in water, and for hunting small game and deer as well as for tracking.It also took part in wild boar hunting, where several dogs were released to hunt together. In the 20th century, which included two world wars and the Russian invasion of Hungary, the Vizsla was close to extinction. After the First World War, enthusiasts searched for the old vizsla type in the country. Around a dozen dogs were found and formed the foundation for all registered Vizslas in Hungary. The first standard for the breed was established in 1935. During the Russian invasion, many Hungarians fled and took their dogs with them. Thus, the Vizsla established itself in other European countries and in the United States. It came to the USA in the 1930s, to England in the 1950s and to Norway (and Sweden) in the 1970s.

Characteristics and mentality

The Vizsla is very social and thrives best in the company of people. It would prefer not to be out of sight, whether you are outside or inside. Although it can be alone, it thrives best in your company. It also has a certain guarding instinct. The Vizsla has a tendency to want to carry something, especially when greeted.It can gently hold around your wrist. This seems like its special way of showing joy and affection. When hunting, the vizsla maintains good contact with the handler, has an excellent sense of smell and rarely passes game. It likes to retrieve both on land and in water. The Vizsla has some special quirks and is not necessarily suitable for everyone. But for those who understand and appreciate its personality, it is the most devoted and fascinating dog around, especially when it comes to cooperation!

Size and appearance

The Vizsla is an elegant and muscular dog with a rectangular body, and moves easily and elegantly. The skull is broad and slightly arched, with a moderate stop and straight nasal bridge as well as tight lips. The ears are pendulous and not too long.The neck is tight and muscular, transitions into a distinct mane and has a tight topline. The chest should be long and deep, but not too wide. The tail is set low and is carried as an extension of the topline. The fore and hind legs are well angulated.The color varies from shades of reddish yellow to dark golden (semmelgelb). The ears may be slightly darker, but otherwise the color should be uniform. The color of the lips and eyelid lines harmonizes with the nose. Shoulder height for males is 58-64 cm, and for bitches it is 54-60 cm.

Fur care

The Vizsla has short hair and does not need much grooming. The fur is easy to hold. The fur is short and dense, but should feel rough and hard. On the head and ears, the fur is thinner, more silky and shorter. There is no undercoat.

Want to know more about the breed?

In general, it is recommended to contact the breed club for more information about the Hungarian Vizsla Shorthair. The breed club has expertise in the breed, an overview of breeders and knowledge of health aspects.We wish you the best of luck with your eventual choice of a Hungarian Vizla short-haired puppy!