History
Vizsla also known as Hungarian pointer descended from the hunting dogs that were used by Magyars who settled in Hungary thousand years ago. They were used for hunting hares and birds by warlords and nobles. Paintings of Vizsla is detected in primitive arts, 10th-century painting has an even coated dog who accompanies Magyar huntsman. In an early 14th century, documents show a dog shaped Vizsla.
In early 19th and 20th century, Vizsla was known as a separate breed that had perfect scenting powers and in World War I, this dog was used for delivering messages. After World War II there was a drastic fall in population of this breed, but few somehow survived, and these members were imported in the 1950s to the USA.
The breed had an entirely different appearance than it has today, in 1954 Vizsla club of America was formed, and it got recognition by AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1960. Since then the breeders have labored to regularize this breed, and it completely changed its appearance.
Presently, it is the perfect companion, and it takes part in various jobs. It is not highly popular, and it ranks among 43rd out of 155 varieties and breeds acknowledged by AKC.
Temperament & Personality
Vizlas is easy to define as an affectionate, lively and gentle. They love to be around its family members all the time. It has a very humble nature, but some are exceptional and show stubbornness, shyness or have sensitive nature. They are eager to please and can do anything to please its family members. If left for a longer duration they can suffer from separation anxiety or develop destructive behaviors.
This athletic and energetic Vizsla can become destructive and bored if left alone without proper training or exercises. But if they get an adequate amount of exercise and training, they can become eager to please.
Exercise
Vizlas are active dogs and requires heavy exercising schedule both mentally and physically. However, requirements can vary, but in general, owners should opt for at least 30 minutes exercising schedule, but if they develop odd behaviors, it indicates exercising is insufficienti and will require increase the time. Take them for leash walks, jogs and fetch games, but Vizlas require off leash running time regularly to burn off excess energy. Mental activity is also crucial which needs to fulfill through training sessions or by providing puzzle toys. They are perfect jogging companions, but until they reach the age of 18-24 months, heavy exercising is not advisable.
Grooming
Vizlas do not have an undercoat but have a sleek and short coat, which does not need burdensome grooming standards. Brushing them rubber grooming brush will suffice their needs, during their shedding seasons cleaning regularly will keep its coat healthy and dirt free. When they get incredibly filthy bathe them with warm or lukewarm water and with quality dog soap, rinse their coat thoroughly.
Use a clipper or a grinding tool to clip their toenails. They also require proper dental care, which will include brushing their teeth with a vet prescribed toothbrush. Clean their ears with a vet prescribed ear solution to keep their ears clean and infection free.
Health Problems
Generally, Vizsla is a healthy breed, but they suffer from some problems.
Major Problems:
- Canine Hip Dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Hypothyroidism
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Lymphosarcoma
However, random vet visits will reduce the risk of these problems.
Training
These pets require positive and consistent training from early puppyhood. They sometimes develop shrewd behavior, and one needs to train them commands and ethical practice from an early age. An owner will face many difficulties if their Borzoi is inexpert, as they will find many inventive ways to trouble. However, they like training sessions and also do well with the attention they receive.
Take them to different busy places like a supermarket, bus stops busy roads and Dogs Park, to provide them socialization. It will allow them to meet unknown faces, different sounds and situations and make them more flexible. Also, command training is essential to polish their skills and enhance the relationship between the dog and the owner.
Being a sensitive breed, it requires socialization from an early age to make them confident so that they can enjoy different activities. With proper socialization and training techniques, owners can have endless fun with these all round dogs. They do well in hunting tests, field trials, obedience, conformation, agility, rally, lure coursing, barn hunts, dock diving, tracking and scent work.
Opt for positive training methods like praises and treats, it will allow them to learn things quickly. Also, make sessions short and varied to prevent boredom.
Feeding
Vizsla does well on high-quality dog food, whether it is homemade or commercially made. Visit a dietician or a vet for approval and supervision. Choosing a diet depending on the age, size and the activity levels will offer the best nutrition. However, sporting breeds need a nutrient-rich diet, and the food is entirely different from the meal they used to eat when they were a puppy. Owners should check their calorie consumption, as they tend to suffer from obesity. Hence, minimize offering treats, table scraps, etc. Divide their meal into two halves for better digestion.
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