10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Getting a Vizsla

Having a dog is one of the best experiences that we humans can have. It is not only a pet, but it is also a loyal companion and friend with whom we can live for a long time. One of the best-behaving pets in a family environment is the Vizsla. 

These canines are loving and friendly to members of their human family, strangers, and animals. They are very active and energetic and need to do exercises and activities every day, including hunting, which is the activity that best highlights their skills. 

Many people adore these dogs for their personality and other interesting characteristics. However, many others discover that the Vizsla was not the most suitable type of dog for their lifestyle. That is because they do not take the time to research this breed before buying it. 

10 Things I Wish I Knew Before Getting a Vizsla 

Velcro Dogs 

Vizslas are known as Velcro dogs because they are very attached to members of their human family, especially their owners. They are characterized by being effective canines that create strong bonds with their loved ones. 

This type of dog will follow its owner everywhere, whether in the living room, kitchen, bathroom, or any room in the house. It should be noted that although they want to be close to you always, they will not bother or inconvenience you at any time since they tend to be calm. Just as they are attached to their owners, they also love children, making them excellent family pets. 

They Can’t Be Left Alone 

This aspect is related to the previous point. The Vizslas, as we have said before, are noble, loyal, and very affectionate animals with their owners and other members of their human family. That is because these canines create a strong and special bond with their loved ones. 

At a certain point, that can also be a problem. People cannot dedicate every hour of the day to be with their dogs since some must study while others work. Therefore, it is normal for many families to leave their Vizslas alone at home. Unfortunately, this situation can be negative since this breed needs to be with their loved ones most of the time. Otherwise, they can become anxious, potentially affecting their health. 

They are Energetic Dogs 

Most people acquire this type of canine due to their hunting skills. Vizslas have been known over the years for being very active and energetic dogs that need to exercise daily and do other activities. Besides, it should be noted that they are playful. 

If you want to acquire a Vizsla, you must be part of a family that likes to do many outdoor activities, whether exercising, playing, or doing any other type of physical activity. 

Its Large Size 

These dogs are characterized by having a medium-large size. Male Vizslas typically measure between 22 inches and 24 inches, while female Vizslas are between 21 inches and 23 inches tall. Weight also varies according to their sex. Males weigh between 20 kg and 30 kg, and females weigh between 18 kg and 25 kg. 

Many people find it uncomfortable to have a dog of this size. That is mainly due to where they live. For that reason, it is not recommended to have a Vizsla in an apartment or a small house without a garden. On the other hand, if you live in a field or a home with a large backyard, then having a Vizsla will not be a problem. 

Vizslas Intelligence 

This breed is one of the most intelligent that exists. The Vizslas are brilliant and teachable as they love to learn new things every day, especially new skills. That helps them not only to carry out their tasks during hunting effectively but also to do any activity that they do together with their owners. 

They Do Not Have an Undercoat 

The coat of this type of dog is short, hard, and thick. However, a fascinating fact is that Vizslas do not have an undercoat. So if you are going to buy a canine of this type, be sure to prepare a place for it inside the house as this type of dog cannot live outdoors due to the weather, especially during cold seasons. The lack of an undercoat can also affect them when they swim for a long time. 

Feeding 

Vizslas, like any other pet, must have a diet high in nutrients and low in fat. Proper feeding will guarantee your dog good health and quality of life. The diet must be based mainly on ideal foods for a canine such as meats (turkey, chicken, fish, etc.), vegetables, fruits, etc. Foods that you should avoid giving your pet are dairy products, chocolate, avocado, garlic, onion, etc. 

Care 

Caring for a Vizsla requires some responsibility. Fortunately, this beautiful dog’s coat does not need to be treated frequently as it is short. The same applies to brushing hair. Thanks to that, the cleaning of this dog should only be carried out when necessary since, unlike other dogs, a Vizsla does not usually get very dirty. Even the Vizslas do not expel bad odor when wet. 

Health Problems 

The first thing you should know is that this breed has a life expectancy of between 12 and 15 years. It should be noted that this period may be longer or shorter depending on the care and feeding you guarantee for your pet. Taking into account this aspect is vital since the Vizslas, in many cases, are prone to suffer certain diseases (some hereditary and others not). They include epilepsy, hip dysplasia, cancer, glaucoma, inflammatory polymyopathy, etc. Therefore, it is important to take proper care of our canine and take it regularly to the vet. 

They are Expensive 

The prices of these beautiful dogs vary according to their age, sex, and origin. Generally speaking, the cost of this breed can range from $ 550 to $ 1,700. It should be noted that these prices are the animal’s net value, which means that feeding, care, and entertainment of it will be related to additional expenses.