The Vizsla (meaning pointer), also known as the Hungarian Vizsla, Magyar Vizsla, or Hungarian Pointer is a striking red-coated sporting breed with a rich history rooted in Hungary. Renowned for their hunting and pointing skills, these dogs have long been celebrated as versatile companions.

Beyond their impressive working abilities, Vizslas are adored for their affectionate and loyal nature. Often nicknamed “Velcro dogs,” they form deep bonds with their human families, thriving on companionship and a strong desire to please. Their intelligence and trainability make them ideal for a variety of roles, from hunting and search-and-rescue to excelling in dog sports.

The breed’s origins trace back to the Magyar horsemen of Hungary, who valued speed, endurance, and elegance in their dogs as much as in their horses. Over centuries of European turmoil, Vizslas retained their noble demeanor, which has remained a hallmark of the breed. Today, their elegance and versatility continue to captivate admirers worldwide. According to figures from the American Kennel Club, Vizslas are ranked as the 33rd most popular dog in the US.

Vizslas are prone to skeletal issues such as hip dysplasia, therefore, it’s important to choose a dog food that has the correct nutrition to support bone growth. The best food depends on their age, size, activity level, and any specific dietary requirements or sensitivities they may have. See our list of the best foods for Vizslas selected by our team made up of vets and pet nutrition experts.

Vizslas’ General Characteristics:

• Origin: Hungary
• Size: Medium to large
• Height: 53-64cm
• Weight: 44-60 pounds
• Lifespan: 12-14 years

Appearance: 

• Coat: Short and smooth
• Colors: Golden rust
• Build: Muscular and lean

Vizsla Temperament:

• Gentle: Very lovable and eager to please
• Energetic: High level of energy and thrives best when given a job or activity 
• Loyal: Vizslas form a tight bond with their owners and hate to be left alone

Training and Exercising:

• Training: Easy to train and responds best to positive reinforcement 
• Exercise: Requires lots of exercise. Minimum 30 minutes of active exercise daily and some dogs will require more.

Grooming:

• Shedding: They do shed, and occasional brushing with a rubber grooming brush is helpful

Interesting Facts About Vizslas:  

• Vizslas are known for being fast, with some recorded speeds of up to 40 miles per hour
• Vizslas arrived in the US in 1950. 
• The Vizsla suffered a severe decline in the late 19th century. Records indicate that there were only about a dozen purebreds left in the Austro-Hungarian empire at the time. Fortunately, the breed managed to bounce back, becoming popular in multiple countries.

Vizsla Price:

The average cost of a Vizsla in the U.S. varies depending on the dog’s pedigree, the breeder’s reputation, location, and whether the dog is intended for show, breeding, or as a pet. Here’s a general guide:

Show Quality or Breeding Quality Vizsla

Price Range: $1,000 – $1,800

If buying a Vizsla puppy or specific breeds of vizsla, the price will be towards the more expensive end of the spectrum.

Rescue or Adoption:

Adoption Fee: Around $50-$500

A Vizsla adopted from a rescue organization or shelter generally costs less. This fee often includes initial veterinary care and spaying/neutering.