HungaryPurpose
The Hungarian Vizsla is a versatile and multi-purpose hunting dog. It should be able to work out in the open, in the forest and on the water.
Vizslas should have the following typical characteristics of the breed: excellent sense of smell, firm pointing, excellent retrieving and a determined and enthusiastic pursuit of game while swimming. It works in difficult terrain as well as in extreme weather conditions. Vizsla is an efficient hunting dog, so noise sensitivity, poor pointing & retrieving and unwillingness to work in the water are considered as faults.
Its easy-going nature and adaptability also make it suitable for apartment living.
Temperament And Behaviour
Cheerful, friendly and easy to train. Does not tolerate harsh treatment. Must not be aggressive or timid.
Grooming
Shorthaired Vizslas are very easy to maintain. A wash whenever needed will do.
What Type Of Person Is Vizsla Suitable For?
Vizslas are excellent dogs for active hunters and outdoor enthusiasts.
History
The predecessors of the Hungarian Vizslas came to their present settlements along with the Hungarian pastoral tribes. Written descriptions and drawings of the breed have been be found as early as the 13th century. Since the 1700s, its importance as a hunting dog has steadily increased.
Vizslas have been recorded successfully participating in pointing dog competitions held in Hungary at the end of the 19th century. Other hunting dog breeds have probably played a part in the development of the breed at that time. Purposeful breeding of the Vizsla started in 1920, and as a result the FCI approved the short-haired Hungarian Vizsla in 1936.
Dog Breeds Similar To Vizsla
Vizslas come in two varieties: the Short Haired Vizsla and the Wire Haired Vizsla (pictured above). They both have their own breed standards.
Vizsla (or Hungarian Vizsla) is a medium-sized dog breed that was accepted as an FCI breed in 1936. They are considered an all-purpose hunting dog and make excellent pets for families with children. Vizslas are known for their gentle nature, intelligence, loyalty and impeccable hunting capabilities.
Vizslas are gentle, playful and loving towards their family members. They are very intelligent dogs and can be easily trained due to their exceptional willingness to co-operate with humans. Vizslas are primed for hunting and will take on any bird game that is presented to them. They are also excellent swimmers.
The Vizsla is a great pet for families with children and they get along well with other animals too. However, because of their hunting instincts, it’s important to keep a Vizsla well-exercised and busy so that they don’t get bored and start to act out.
Vizslas need a lot of activity and attention, thus they are not the best breed for people who are gone all day or who live a very active lifestyle.
Now that we’ve talked a little bit about the Hungarian Vizsla, let’s move on to some similar breeds…
1. Weimaraner
The Weimaraner is a large dog breed that was originally bred in Germany for hunting in the early 19th century. It is a somewhat larger in size but it is similar to the Vizsla in temperament and abilities.
Like vizslas, they are intelligent and trainable dogs with an eagerness to their owners. They are also high energy dogs that need a lot of exercise and stimulation. And, they make great family pets.
The Weimaraner is an all-purpose gun dog and was used for hunting boar, deer and bear. Today, they are mostly used as bird dogs in North America.
Weimaraners come in two coat types: short-haired and long-haired.
2. German Shorthaired Pointer
The German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) is a medium to large sized dog breed that was also originally bred in Germany for bird hunting, small game hunting and big game hunting. It is a versatile hunting dog that is also an excellent family pet.
The German Shorthaired Pointer is similar to the Vizsla in many ways but it is slightly larger in size. They are both intelligent, gentle, loving and make great family dogs. They are also both high energy dogs that need a lot of exercise.
3. German Wirehaired Pointer
The German Wirehaired Pointer (GWP) is similar to the GSP but has a more rugged appearance, thanks to its wire-like coat.
The GWPs are also intelligent and make great family pets. They are considered one of the most versatile hunting dogs in the world.
4. Braque du Bourbonnais
Yet another gundog on our list is the Braque du Bourbonnais. It is a small to medium-sized dog breed that originated in France.
The Braque du Bourbonnais is similar to the Vizsla in temperament and abilities, but it is a bit smaller in size. They are both intelligent, gentle and make great family dogs.
5. Spinone Italiano
Spinone Italiano is a large Italian dog breed, that is also an all-purpose hunting dog and great as a family pet. The Spinone Italiano is similar to the Vizsla in many ways, but it is larger in size.
Dogs That Look Like Vizsla
There are also some dogs that look very similar to the Vizsla but are not actually related.
These dogs (and the Pudelpointer) share many of the same physical characteristics as the Vizsla but they do not have the same temperament or abilities. However, they are all excellent family pets for active families.
So, there you have it! A list of dog breeds that are similar to the Hungarian Vizsla. We hope you found this post helpful and informative.
