Vizsla

The Hungarian Vizsla was a favorite of aristocrats. Their strong lean head and long tapering muzzle gave the breed an aristocratic look that was favored among early Hungarian barons. The vizsla history begins rather vaguely and the breed is thought to have originated from a cross of the Turkish yellow dog and the Transylvania hound. The breed thrived for many years in Hungary perfecting its nose and making it an excellent hunter. Its loyal temperament also gave aristocracy a reason to guard the bloodline of the vizsla fiercely. This part pointer, part retriever was a coveted companion to many centuries of Hungarian aristocracy and can be seen in artwork as early as the 10th century.

The vizsla history turns sad during the World Wars almost becoming extinct due to mixing the breed with German short hair pointers and English pointers. It seems that documentation reveals that only about a dozen true vizslas were left after World War II and although the breed was built back up, the threat of possible extinction was very real during the Russian occupation. During that time in Hungary, many feared that vizslas would be destroyed because of their noble background. Since the breed was associated with aristocracy, many Hungarians feared for the breed’s existence and began to smuggle them into Austria and eventually the United States.

The vizsla history takes a turn for the better at this point. Since 1950 the breed has slowly regained its former distinction as a superb breed with gentle and loyal spirit, but also gained AKC affiliation. This breed has been used to establish other breeds of pointer or retriever.

Vizsla are often confused with other types of retrievers and pointers, but their rich and noble heritage cannot be dismissed. This dog has come through a lot of struggle to survive, which may help its popularity, but when one considers its sleek muscular build, its golden rust coat and its dual ability to be both pointer and retriever, one can’t help but be attracted to this incredible breed.
Because of the vizsla history of loyalty and love toward its people, the vizsla thrives among an active family, is easy to groom, and extremely trainable. This breed is still ideal for hunting in the field and racing alongside his human companion as well as enjoying a romp in the back yard.