How to Groom a Vizsla

Vizslas are sleek, lithe hunting dogs that usually have a short, straight coat. Most Vizslas are rusty gold in color, but some vary to red or pale yellow. By some standards this a fault, and not by others. However, by any standard, black in the coat is defect. Vizslas are fairly low maintenance. They need a full grooming every 10 to 12 weeks and a general grooming twice per month.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Natural bristle brush
• Mild soap or dry shampoo
• Rubber brush
• Scissors
• Aloe skin cream
• Blending shears

1. Brush out the dog's coat with a natural bristle several times a month. If you brush your dog regularly, you can drastically reduce the need for full baths. The coat is naturally short and lies flat and close to the body. There are no curls or special feathering to maintain. Vizslas are average shedders. Brush in a little bit of coat conditioner to improve the appearance of the coat.

2. Bathe your dog infrequently and only when absolutely necessary. Use a mild soap or try a dry shampoo instead. Use a rubber brush while bathing to remove shed hair.

3. Clip the whiskers with scissors if you prefer a whisker-free look. This is completely optional for pet dogs.

4. Apply aloe skin cream or gentle moisturizer to callused joints, particularly the elbows. These taut, lean dogs tend to get callused from exertion combined with their slim frame.

5. Use blending shears to neutralize areas of the coat where hair looks as though it comes together at uneven angles.

Tips & Warnings

• Vizslas have a life expectancy of 12 to 15 years of age.
• Breeding experts assume that Vizslas are the descendants of both the Transylvanian Hound and the now-extinct Turkish Yellow Dog. Owners traditionally use Vizslas as hunting dogs in Hungary and as of late, breeders have mixed the breed with German Pointers.
• These dogs are a gentle, affectionate and energetic breed. They are good family pets and companions for adults and children.
• Many feared that all Vizslas would be slaughtered when Russians invaded Hungary, as this breed was generally owned by aristocrats. Some very devoted Vizsla-lovers smuggled the animals to places such as Austria and America.
• Vizslas are susceptible to hip dysplasia.