Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla)
Also known as Rövidszörü Magyar Vizsla · Braque Hongrois A Poil Court (Vizsla) · Kurzhaariger Ungarischer Vorstehhund (Vizsla) · Braco Húngaro de Pelo Corto
Hungary, Continental Pointing Dogs
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 54–64 cm
- Weight
- 20–30 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Affectionate
- Energetic
- Sensitive
- Eager to please
- Athletic
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla)
The Hungarian Short-haired Pointer, or Vizsla, is a medium-sized gundog from Hungary, developed to point and retrieve game on open land. It is an elegant, lean, muscular dog with a short, smooth coat in a rich russet-gold colour and a lightly built frame. It is often called a velcro dog because of how closely it stays by its owner.
Temperament
Affectionate, sensitive and very attached to its family. Energetic and eager to please, but can be anxious if left alone. Needs consistent, positive training and plenty of company and activity.
Exercise
Needs a lot of daily exercise: at least an hour or two of running, retrieving and training. It excels in canine sports.
Grooming
Short coat needs only weekly brushing. Check the ears and nails.
Care & wellbeing
Thin coat offers little warmth, so use a coat in cold weather. Needs enough activity to avoid destructive behaviour.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 25 kg adult- Water
- 1 L–1.5 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,250 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla)
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A Hungarian pointing gundog with a short golden-rust coat, developed for hunting game birds on the open plains and later bred to retrieve. It is a very active, affectionate, close companion that tends to dislike being left alone.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Hip dysplasia
- Epilepsy
- Allergies
- Cancers
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scores
- Eye tests
Not every Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla) is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Is a Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla) right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla) get?
Adult Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla)s typically stand about 54–64 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–30 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla)s live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla) need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla) need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla)s easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla)s shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla)s good with children?
They usually do well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla) live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla)s have?
The breed can be prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, allergies. Not every Hungarian Short-Haired Pointer (Vizsla) is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Hungary
- Type
- Continental Pointing Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 1954