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Sporting breeds: Vizsla
Origin
The Vizsla is an old breed from Hungary. He is also known as the Hungarian Pointer. Primitive stone etchings from the 10th century show a Magyar huntsman with his falcon and a dog resembling the Vizsla. Manuscripts from the 14th century show illustrations of dogs identified as Vizslas. Although not verified, it is guessed that the Vizsla is descended from the Transylvanian Hound and the Turkish Yellow Dog.
World War I found the Vizsla almost extinct and preserved by only a few breeders. They did not prosper in great numbers between the two world wars. Hungarians fleeing before the Russian occupation in 1945 took their dogs into Austria, Italy and Germany. There are also some known in Czechoslovakia, Turkey and southern Russia. They were brought to the United States in the 1950s and were admitted to the AKC registry in 1960.
General description
Height: 21-24 inches
Weight: 50-60 pounds
Color: Solid, golden rust in varying shades is the only color allowed. Small white spots on the chest and toes are allowed.
Grooming requirements
A Vizsla's needs for grooming are quite simple. A curry brush is needed to keep the shedding down, and any seams where two different growths of hair come together can be blended with blending shears. A stripping knife should be used like a comb (this is called carding) to remove excess hair if it is present. Whiskers and eyebrows can be removed with clippers if you desire. The nails and ears should be tended to regularly.
Health considerations
Several skin and eye problems, hip dysplasia, and OCD (a tendency to arthritis) bother the Vizsla. Umbilical hernias are not uncommon. Epilepsy has been reported.
Breed characteristics and personality
This is a very active breed, not suited for apartment living. He needs room to run, lots of exercise, and a fenced yard. He does well kenneled or in the home. He is above average in trainability. The Vizsla is a good watchdog.
This is an intelligent, trainable, steady, obedient, and affectionate dog. He is gentle mannered, but has well developed protective instinct. Shyness, timidity, or nervousness is not allowed.
The Vizsla may be a bit too active for very small children but makes a good companion for adults.
Uses
The Vizsla is a pointer in type, retrieves, and is a multipurpose dog. He works upland game, rabbits, and waterfowl. He has an exceptional sense of smell and retrieves over any terrain, including marsh.
Web links
AKC Vizsla page
The Vizsla Club
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