How Vizslas Differ from Golden Retrievers

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.

Vizslas: Elegant & Energetic

Originally bred in Hungary to work as both pointer and retriever, the Vizsla is considered to be one of the world’s oldest breeds. These dogs have been around since the 10th century, and once were the favorites of the Hungarian aristocracy. Sadly, the breed decreased in numbers during World War II, and by the 1950s, Vizslas were almost extinct. 

The breed was revived and eventually brought to the United States and subsequently recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1960. Presently, the Vizsla is rated as the 33rd most popular breed in the country.

Vizslas stand at 21 to 25 inches at the shoulders and are short-coated, athletic animals with lean muscles and excellent stamina. They have beautiful, golden-rust coats and although there is some shedding, their grooming requirements are minimal.

A playful, energetic breed, the Viszla finds its perfect home with an active family. Its temperament displays a natural gentleness with children of all ages, making the dog well suited to domestic life. In addition, these animals thrive in the company of humans and are considered a very affectionate breed. Expert at cuddling, Vizslas like nothing better than to hang out on your lap.

However, this breed is packed with energy and really needs a daily outlet in exercise and play. They love a good run or a long session of ball throwing and make excellent jogging companions. The Vizsla also shows promise in tracking, agility and search-and-rescue. The most easily trained of the pointing breeds, they will require firmness and consistency to succeed. With their versatile abilities, they have been used in such varying activities as falconry, therapy and flyball.

Vizslas are excellent hunters and will point, retrieve and flush. They are a great choice for the walking hunter. Traditionally used for waterfowl and upland game, this dog will excel in a variety of environments.

Vizslas are wonderful companion animals who delight all with their sweet, loving temperament. Playful and intelligent, they need human companionship. This is not a breed that will do well in isolation, and a happy, well-adjusted Vizsla requires lots of exercise and affection.