Vizmaraner

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Vizmaraner is a cross of two highly regarded hunting dogs that are also valued for their companionship and suitability as family pets.

The Hungarian or Magyar Vizsla is a breed that lived and hunted with ancient Magyar tribes in the Carpathian basin. It is an all-around gun dog, and while almost becoming extinct during the World Wars, has now recovered and is beginning to gain popularity. Sometimes confused with other breeds of similar build and purpose, such as the Weimaraner, the Redbone Coonhound and the Rhodesian Ridgeback, the Vizsla is distinguished by its lithe, sleeker build and the coloration of its nose, which mirrors its rust-colored coat.

The Weimaraner, on the other hand, is of German origin and was specifically bred for hunting with German nobles and royals. Housed with the family, instead of in kennels, the Weimaraner grew acclimated to living with humans, and considers itself part of the family. Its keen hunting instincts and high prey drive notwithstanding, the Weimaraner is an affectionate and demonstrative dog that prefers staying by its master's side.

Color

The Vizmaraner comes from breeds that are recognizably distinguished by their coat colors. The Vizsla is most often in a uniform gold- rust coat, while the Weimaraner, nicknamed "Grey Ghost," has a coat in varied shades of grey. The Vizmaraner can inherit either parent's coat, but it is highly unlikely to have a combination of the two.

Coat

The Vizmaraner has a short, sleek coat, smooth to the touch, but hard and dense, providing protection to the body in cold weather or wet environments.

Personality

The Vizmaraner is a highly intelligent dog that can be trained for different tasks. It is an all-around working dog, and at the same time, a devoted and loyal family pet. It is good for playing with children because of its gentle disposition and high energy, but small children can get knocked down by this athletic animal. The vizmaraner will get well with other dogs, but smaller animals can trigger its prey drive, and are best kept separate. It has a tendency to be needy and to want to be around its owner all the time; hence the name "Velcro dog." If permitted, it will stake out a spot for itself on the couch and in the bed. An unhappy Vizmaraner can be real trouble, as it will express its boredom or anxiety by destructive behavior and whining or crying.

Care

Low maintenance is needed for the Vizmarane's coat. A weekly brushing will keep it clean and shiny, while bathing will be needed only about once a month, if the dog has been especially active and through bodies of water. The Vizmaraner has poor protection in extremely cold temperatures; it should never be left outside, or taken out for long periods of time.

Training

The Vizmaraner is for a committed owner that can fulfill its daily need for activity and be around for a significant amount of time. With proper training and a regimen, a Vizmaraner should be sufficiently exercised daily, to keep its muscles toned and endurance up. Socialization from a young age will help lessen its dependency on its owner, and will develop its personality so as not to be timid or fearful in new situations or surroundings.

Activity

Small living quarters are not a problem for the Vizmaraner, if it gets taken out daily for exercise and activity. A yard for play should be secure, as the Vizmaraner is agile and can bolt fences to go chasing after other animals.