History 

The Hungarian Vizsla, also known as the Magyar Vizsla, Hungarian Pointer or Smooth-Haired Vizsla come from the ancestors of the tough Magyar war dogs. They were bred to be incredibly fast, tough and resilient as they pillaged through Western Europe in the mid 800’s, eventually settling in Hungary. Hungarian Vizslas were used as hunting dogs for centuries and in World War I were used to deliver messages. Although they were invaluable service dogs, they were also cherished companions. 

In modern times, their impeccable sense of smell and trainability has landed them roles in drug detection and search and rescue, as well as continuing to be an enthusiastic agility and sport dog and beloved family member.

Appearance and Personality 

Hungarian Vizslas famously approach life with incredible joy and verve! They relish the opportunity to run, frolic, and play. As hunting and companion dogs throughout their history, they are used to life close to their humans. This generally means they are devoted family pets but also predisposes them to loneliness and boredom if left alone for long periods of time with inadequate entertainment. Their energy, inquisitive nature and intelligence may result in a rambunctious troublemaker if they are not properly trained and socialised. Brain games and early, consistent training will help the Vizsla become a well-mannered and happy family member.  

Vizslas will thrive in a household where they can remain in close contact with their family, as well as have plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They make a great jogging companion, or agility dog. Apartment living is likely to cramp the Vizsla’s style and having suitable backyard to space for them to romp around in will be appreciated. Once they are ready for down time, they will gladly curl up indoors with their favourite people.

Common Health Concerns 

According to PetSure data from 2020, the five most common reasons for Hungarian Vizsla to require a vet visit (excluding for routine visits like vaccinations) were:

RankConditionAverage cost for single treatment
(average pet insurance claim amount)
Highest cost for single treatment (highest pet insurance claim seen for this condition)
1Skin conditions, including allergic skin disease$213$2,670
2Tumours and cancers, including melanoma$457$7,332
3Gastrointestinal conditions, including Canine Haemorrhagic Gastroenteritis$346$3,253
4Ear infections$159$1,366
5Traumatic accidents, including wounds and broken toes$406$6,054

Disclaimer: Reimbursement for these claims would be subject to limits, such as annual benefit limits or sub-limits, benefit percentage, applicable waiting periods and any applicable excess. Cover is subject to the policy terms and conditions. You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or policy wording available from the relevant provider.

For the same period (2020), the top five highest single vet treatments (or highest pet insurance claims) for Hungarian Vizslas from PetSure data were:

RankConditionHighest Cost of treatment for condition 
(average pet insurance claim amount)
1Hepatopathy (liver disease)$12,387
2Adenocarcinoma (cancer)$8,463
3Gastric foreign body$7,805
4Haemangioma (cancer)$7,332
5Septic shock$7,136

Disclaimer: Reimbursement for these claims would be subject to limits, such as annual benefit limits or sub-limits, benefit percentage, applicable waiting periods and any applicable excess. Cover is subject to the policy terms and conditions. You should consider the relevant Product Disclosure Statement or policy wording available from the relevant provider.

Most popular Golden Retriever names

Most popular names

  1. Chilli
  2. Luna
  3. Lenny
  4. Lexi
  5. Ruby
  6. Honey
  7. Maple
  8. Vinny
  9. Ziggy
  10. Harvey

Most popular female names 

  1. Chilli
  2. Luna
  3. Lexi
  4. Ruby
  5. Honey
  6. Maple
  7. Nala
  8. Olive
  9. Willow
  10. Dolly

Most popular male names:

  1. Lenny
  2. Vinnie
  3. Harvey
  4. Murphy
  5. Rusty
  6. Wally
  7. Ziggy
  8. Alfie
  9. Archie
  10. Arlo

Did you know?

The Wirehaired Vizsla although similar in many ways is a separate breed from the Hungarian Vizsla

References

  1. American Kennel Club , Hungarian Vizsla, accessed on 05/07/2021
  2. Australian National Kennel Council Ltd, Hungarian Vizsla, accessed on 05/07/2021
  3. Wikipedia, Vizsla, accessed on 21/07/2021

Pet insurance can help by covering a portion of the eligible vet bill if the unexpected happens. Because it is difficult to predict the costs of veterinary care, it can help to have measures in place to help prepare for the unexpected. Check out our partner network and explore our policy tools to find a pet insurance policy.

Not all conditions or items are covered by Pet Insurance. Refer to the applicable Product Disclosure Statement for information about coverage and exclusions.