When deciding to adopt
a new puppy, it’s extremely important to consider the type of life you
currently lead, and how that compares to the care your new puppy will need for
the duration of its lifetime. If you are not sure what breed is right for you
yet, thorough research can help you make the right choice. While many people
are generally familiar with the Golden Retriever breed characteristics, Vizlas
are much less commonly known. Here are several important things one must know
about this breed before adopting a Vizsla puppy and how they differ from a
Golden Retriever.
Energy: Vizslas are a much higher energy breed than Golden Retrievers, as they have been bred for hunting which requires plenty of stamina. They are definitely not couch potato dogs! As such, a Vizsla puppy would be great for someone who participates is higher energy activities such as hiking, running, agility, etc.
Temperament: Vizslas need lots of socialization starting from a very young age and continuing throughout their lifetime. They do not possess the natural confidence that a Golden Retriever has, and can be skittish if not socialized properly.
Shedding: Vizslas, although not a hypoallergenic breed as some proclaim, do generally shed less than Golden Retrievers as they do not have an undercoat.
Puppyhood: Vizslas are slower to mature, and are considered puppies until they are three years old. Because of this, they will need patience and leadership to reach their high trainability potential.
Companionship: Like Golden Retrievers, Vizslas are true “Velcro” dogs and will follow their owner everywhere! They are not content to just sit and watch you move about the house – they will try to help and enjoy being as close to you as possible. However, they do not tolerate well the rough handling by very young children - they do best with gentle, older children.
Would a Vizsla make a good family dog? The answer is yes! For the right family who is willing to put in the extra love and care that Vizslas need, they will be rewarded with a loving and loyal family pet.
Energy: Vizslas are a much higher energy breed than Golden Retrievers, as they have been bred for hunting which requires plenty of stamina. They are definitely not couch potato dogs! As such, a Vizsla puppy would be great for someone who participates is higher energy activities such as hiking, running, agility, etc.
Temperament: Vizslas need lots of socialization starting from a very young age and continuing throughout their lifetime. They do not possess the natural confidence that a Golden Retriever has, and can be skittish if not socialized properly.
Shedding: Vizslas, although not a hypoallergenic breed as some proclaim, do generally shed less than Golden Retrievers as they do not have an undercoat.
Puppyhood: Vizslas are slower to mature, and are considered puppies until they are three years old. Because of this, they will need patience and leadership to reach their high trainability potential.
Companionship: Like Golden Retrievers, Vizslas are true “Velcro” dogs and will follow their owner everywhere! They are not content to just sit and watch you move about the house – they will try to help and enjoy being as close to you as possible. However, they do not tolerate well the rough handling by very young children - they do best with gentle, older children.
Would a Vizsla make a good family dog? The answer is yes! For the right family who is willing to put in the extra love and care that Vizslas need, they will be rewarded with a loving and loyal family pet.
