Vizsla - Hungarian Pointer
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Background and Description:
The Vizsla is an ancient hunting dog that has its origins in central Europe. During World War I and II, the breed greatly decreased in number, almost to the point of extinction in Hungary. Fortunately, other fanciers in Germany, Austria, and Italy kept the breed going.The Vizsla is a sleek and regal looking dog with a slim, yet robust body, a muscular head and long low set ears. He is of medium height with a striking short-haired coat. His expression shows alertness and intelligence.
The expertise of this breed is in pointing and retrieving small game both on land and in water.
Although this dog has a commanding presence which some people may view as less approachable, the truth is, he is a beautiful companion dog with a very loving and sensitive nature.
Appearance:
Height: 22 to 24 inches Weight: 40-62 lbs.Colors: Solid Russet Gold in different shades
Coat And Care
The Vizsla has a close-lying short coat that is smooth, dense, and very striking in its color.
A modest amount of brushing will keep the coat in good order. In addition, an inspection and cleaning of the ears should be included in the grooming routine.
Personality and Traits:
The Vizsla is known for his intelligence and trainability. He is calm, gentle and sensitive in nature. In fact, his sensitivity is so keen that he will pick up on your moods and match his demeanor to them...so be careful how you act around him! If you're jolly most of the time, no worries.
This breed also has very protective traits toward his family and makes a fine watchdog.
Training your dog is best done by taking advantage of his smartness using a creative approach along with consistency and patience. He will become too easily bored with rote learning.
Activity Level:
This dog needs lots of exercise on a regular basis to keep from becoming overly nervous and high strung. If he doesn't get it, plan to have really high walls around your property to contain him. Although even then, some Vizslas have the capacity to jump an eight-foot wall without any problem, if so inclined. Sufficient exercise is the key to prevent this.
If you're a jogger or runner, this would be an ideal way to exercise your Vizsla. Even though he has considerable stamina, be sure to break him in gradually to the pace and distance. This dog also loves to interact by playing games, so try to fit some fun time into his day.
Another good way to take advantage of this dog's strength and intelligence, would be to enroll him in a class for field trials. This will allow him to excel while using his natural abilities.
Space Needs:
The Vizsla's demeanor is best suited to living in a rural setting where he has room to run and play.
Children:
Best with older children who are more mature and have respect for pets. As with any breed of dog, interactions with children should always be supervised by an adult.
Elderly:
The exercise requirements and temperament of the Vizsla would not be the best fit for a sedentary lifestyle.
Book & Training Recommendations:
DOVE CRESSWELLS DOG TRAINING
Chances are if you've seen some clever dogs in the movies and on television programs, they may have been trained by Dove, because that is her specialty. Dove is a renowned Hollywood dog trainer for the entertainment industry so she knows her stuff. Take a look at her fun online program and see a sample lesson.
VIZSLAS
Detailed manual providing authoritative advice about this skilled hunting dog and ideal companion. Covers selection, preventive health care, the dog's changing nutritional needs during its lifetime, socializing and housebreaking a puppy, and training a Vizsla for hunting. A very helpful guide for a beginner or for the younger owner. Full color photos.
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