All about Vizslas

About Vizslas

There’s a reason so many of us fall hard for the Hungarian Vizsla- they’re intelligent, affectionate, driven, and utterly stunning. With their golden-russet coats and soulful eyes, they give off an air of elegance... right up until they launch themselves at you with 25 kilos of unfiltered love and zero braking capacity. Bred as a versatile hunting companion, the Vizsla thrives when given both a job and a person (or preferably a whole family) to attach themselves to like Velcro. They live for connection, excel in scent work, obedience, retrieving, and just about anything you’re willing to teach them- as long as you bring snacks.

But let’s not romanticise too much. As I write this, I’ve got two girls playing tug over my sleeve, another repeatedly offering me a half-soggy toy, and someone trying to climb into my lap despite being a full-grown adult dog with no concept of personal space. Vizslas aren’t for the faint-hearted. They mouth, they bounce, they snort, they try to “help” by carrying your socks, and they will stare at you like you’ve personally ruined their life if something doesn't go the way they want it (cue Meredith's iconic side eye). They don’t “settle nicely” by default- they need training, structure, and a whole lot of patience. And then more training. And maybe a glass of whatever is your poison- because you're going to need it.

According to the Australian breed standard, male Vizslas typically stand between 58–64 cm tall and weigh 20.5–30 kg, while females stand around 54–60 cm and weigh 18–25 kg. In real life? They’ll somehow seem twice that size when they’re trying to squeeze themselves between you and your laptop. If you’re looking for a dog who will challenge you, adore you, make you laugh, and drag you outside every single day- this might be the breed for you. Just be prepared to lose your couch, your bed, your dignity during recall training, and probably your heart. Vizslas are not background dogs; they are main characters. And once you’ve been chosen by one, it’s hard to imagine life without their chaos, comedy, and unwavering love.