Thinking About Adopting a Vizsla? Here’s What You Should Know

Vizslas (pronounced VEESH-luh) are sleek, sensitive, and incredibly affectionate. Known as “Velcro dogs” for how closely they stick to their people, Vizslas are loyal companions with energy to spare.

If you’re considering adopting a Vizsla, this guide will help you decide if their unique temperament and needs are the right fit for your lifestyle.

🐕 Temperament: Affectionate, Sensitive, and People-Oriented

Vizslas are:

• Very people-focused — they want to be with you all the time
• Gentle and loving with family members, including kids
• Often shy or reserved with strangers
• Emotionally sensitive — harsh tones or rough handling can make them anxious

They’re deeply loyal and do best in homes where someone is home often. This is not a breed that likes being left alone.

🧠 Trainability: Smart and Eager, But Sensitive

Vizslas are intelligent and trainable:

• They learn quickly with positive reinforcement
• They respond poorly to yelling or harsh discipline
• They benefit from structure, early socialization, and ongoing training

They’re great at sports like agility, scent work, and obedience — especially when training is fun and encouraging.

⚡ Energy Level: High Drive and Go-Go-Go

Vizslas are high-energy sporting dogs:

• Need at least 1–2 hours of daily exercise
• Thrive on running, hiking, fetch, swimming, or agility
• Easily bored without stimulation and can become destructive or anxious

A tired Vizsla is a happy Vizsla — without proper outlets, they’ll invent their own (chewing, barking, pacing).

🧼 Grooming & Shedding

Vizslas have short, smooth coats:

• Low shedding, but not zero
• Quick weekly brushing helps remove dead hair
• They’re naturally clean and have minimal doggy odor
• Nail trimming and ear cleaning are still important

This is a low-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming.

🩺 Health Considerations

Vizslas are generally healthy, but watch for:

• Hip dysplasia
• Epilepsy
• Hypothyroidism
• Allergies or skin sensitivities

Their average lifespan is 12–14 years, and most stay active well into their senior years. Choose a breeder who health-tests for genetic issues.

🏡 Lifestyle Fit

Before adopting, ask:

• Can you give this dog daily exercise and time with people?
• Will someone be home most of the day?
• Do you want a dog that’s glued to your side — all the time?

Vizslas are best for active households, runners, or people who want a close companion dog. They don’t do well left alone in crates for long stretches.

🍗 Feeding & Nutrition

Vizslas are typically easy to feed:

• Most do well on high-quality kibble or raw diets
• Portion control is important — they’re lean, athletic dogs, not bulky
• Expect 2–3 cups per day, split into meals (adjust for age and activity level)

Hydration and food timing are important, especially with active lifestyles.

🐾 Puppy vs. Adult Vizsla

Vizsla puppies are:

• Busy, bitey, and into everything
• Require lots of structure and supervision
• Easily overwhelmed by chaos or harsh corrections

Adult Vizslas can be calmer, especially if well-trained. Many adults still have high energy but are more emotionally mature and easier for first-time owners.

🧬 Adoption vs. Breeder

Adoption:

• Vizslas are less common in general shelters, but breed-specific rescues do exist
• Some mixes have similar personalities and make excellent companions

Breeder:

• Ask for health testing results for hips, thyroid, and eyes
• Look for breeders who focus on temperament, not just appearance or hunting lines
• Avoid breeders who downplay the breed’s high energy or sensitivity

Final Thoughts

Vizslas are loyal, loving, and athletic companions who want nothing more than to be near their people. They’re ideal for active individuals or families who want a dog that will join them on every adventure — and snuggle up afterward.

At Playday Pups in Burlington, we love working with Vizslas. They’re playful, social, and full of heart. If you’re considering adopting one, come visit and see how they interact with our pack — we’re always happy to help future dog parents make the right match.