Buyer Beware by Sheila Gray

I read this article recently & thought it was worth sharing particularly considering the number of rescues both the Society & the Club are having to look after/rehome.

 

"The HVS feels prospective Vizsla owners should be made aware of contra-indications in the description of Vizslas as ideal family pets.

 

The Vizsla is a complicated character who requires lots of attention, exercise and training when adult.

Training should begin early in the puppies life.  It should be firm, patient and consistent.  Vizslas have a low threshold for boredom and will become either highly excited and silly or nervous and whingy if pushed too hard or dealt with in an aggressive manner.  However, they may try to become boss dog, or manipulate their owner if not shown their place in the home.

A highly intelligent dog, they require activities to engage their brain, otherwise they will use this intelligence to devise their own amusement which can spell trouble!

Vizslas are bred to have copious energy and are capable of working eight hours a day during the shooting season.  If not utilised this energy can cause the dog to become hyperactive and neurotic.  By nature Vizslas are excitable and extrovert, who display great affection toward their people.  This can be jumping up or taking hold of hand, wrist or a piece of clothing and mouthing it.

This is the Vizsla, it needs much attention and is not happy without sufficient exercise and will fret if left alone for long periods.

Can you cope with this?  If you have any doubts – do not get a Vizsla.

Sadly, there have recently been problems where the rescue team and some owners who have had to take the ultimate step - euthanasia. The Vizslas in question had shown repeated aggression.

Circumstances have varied as to the cause of this sad situation, it has been noted that some of the dogs involved have been somewhat closely bred.

Do examine the Pedigree and seek advice before deciding this is the dog for you.

Lifestyles have changed and people do not always have the time to devote to a dog.  Vizslas do not make good trophy or weekend dogs.

When in the right environment, there is no better companion than this breed, they just do not suit everybody.

In return for your care and commitment a Vizsla will give a lifetime of fun and devotion."