Vizslas

50 Questions Vizsla Owners Ask

1. How often should I groom my Vizsla?
   Vizslas have short, sleek coats that require minimal grooming—brushing once or twice a week is usually sufficient. Feeding a natural diet like Poppy’s Picnic raw meals can enhance coat condition and shine.

2. Do Vizslas shed?
   Yes, Vizslas do shed moderately, especially during seasonal changes. Regular brushing and a nutrient-rich diet help reduce loose hair.

3. How much exercise does a Vizsla need?
   Vizslas are high-energy dogs that need at least 1.5 to 2 hours of exercise daily. Off-lead running, agility, and fetch games are ideal.

4. Are Vizslas prone to health issues?
   Yes, Vizslas may be predisposed to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism, and eye disorders. 

5. What’s the average lifespan of a Vizsla?
   Vizslas typically live between 12 and 14 years, with good diet, exercise, and regular vet care.

6. How often should I bathe my Vizsla?
   Vizslas don’t have a strong odour and usually only need a bath every 6-8 weeks. Use gentle dog shampoo to avoid drying out their skin.

7. How do I clean my Vizsla’s ears?
   Check Vizsla ears weekly for wax and debris, and clean gently with a vet-recommended solution to prevent infections.

8. How do I know if my Vizsla is overweight?
   A Vizsla should have a visible waist and easily felt ribs. Use Poppy’s Picnic portion guides to manage weight. Independent trade organisation, UK Pet food, has worked with vets to create a useful sizeometer for dogs so it's easier to track your dog's weight. Download it here 

9. What toys do Vizslas enjoy?
   Vizslas love active toys like fetch balls, tug ropes, and puzzle feeders. Enrichment toys with Poppy’s Picnic treats are great for mental stimulation.

10. How do I keep my Vizsla’s coat healthy?
    Brush your Vizsla weekly and feed a diet rich in essential fats and oils, like Poppy’s Picnic raw meals.

Vizsla Behaviour & Temperament: 40 More Common Questions

11. Are Vizslas good with children?
    Vizslas are affectionate and generally great with children. Their energy levels make them best suited to active families.

12. Do Vizslas get along with other dogs?
    Yes, Vizslas are usually sociable, but early socialisation is important to encourage positive interactions.

13. Are Vizslas easy to train?
    Vizslas are intelligent and eager to please but can be sensitive. Use gentle, reward-based training with Poppy’s Picnic treats.

14. Do Vizslas bark a lot?
    Vizslas aren’t excessive barkers, but they will alert you if something’s amiss.

15. Can Vizslas live in flats?
    Vizslas can live in flats if they receive ample outdoor exercise. They need space to burn off energy.

16. Do Vizslas like cuddles?
    Yes, Vizslas are known as 'velcro dogs' and love being close to their humans.

17. Can Vizslas be left alone?
    Vizslas dislike being alone for long periods. Use enrichment toys with Poppy’s Picnic treats to help ease separation.

18. Are Vizslas hypoallergenic?
    No, Vizslas are not considered hypoallergenic and do shed.

19. How do I socialise my Vizsla?
    Expose your Vizsla early to a variety of people, pets, and environments. Use treats and praise to reward calm behaviour.

20. Do Vizslas like water?
    Many Vizslas enjoy water and swimming. Introduce it gently and always supervise.

21. Why does my Vizsla follow me everywhere?
    Vizslas form strong bonds and are naturally clingy. Teaching independence can help.

22. Are Vizslas good for first-time dog owners?
    Yes, if the owner is active and committed to daily exercise and training.

23. Do Vizslas get bored easily?
    Yes. Vizslas need daily mental stimulation through training, scent work, and puzzle toys filled with Poppy’s Picnic treats.

24. Can Vizslas do agility or dog sports?
    Yes, Vizslas excel in agility, obedience, and field work. They love having a job to do.

25. How do I calm my Vizsla down?
    Daily exercise, enrichment, and structured routines help calm your Vizsla.

26. What behaviour problems are common in Vizslas?

• Jumping up

• Chewing

• Separation anxiety. Consistent training and routine prevent most issues.

27. Why does my Vizsla stare at me?
    Your Vizsla may be waiting for a command, meal, or affection. They’re very attuned to their owners.

28. Do Vizslas need daily mental stimulation?
    Yes, absolutely. Use training sessions, food puzzles, and games to challenge your Vizsla’s mind.

29. How do I stop my Vizsla from chewing?
    Provide chew toys and redirect chewing with positive reinforcement and Poppy’s Picnic treats.

30. Why is my Vizsla always hungry?
    Vizslas have fast metabolisms. Feed nutrient-dense meals and follow Poppy’s Picnic portion guides.

31. Are Vizslas good for older adults?
    Not typically, unless the person is active or has support for exercise needs.

32. Can Vizslas be therapy dogs?
    Yes, with training. Vizslas are gentle, intuitive, and responsive.

33. What are signs of stress in Vizslas?
    Pacing, whining, licking, or hiding. Offer a calm space and reduce triggers.

34. Why does my Vizsla dig?
    Digging is often a sign of boredom or instinct. Provide a digging zone or enrich their environment.

35. Why does my Vizsla nip when excited?
    Redirect with toys and teach impulse control through games.

36. How do I stop my Vizsla jumping on guests?
    Teach a ‘sit to greet’ behaviour and reward with Poppy’s Picnic treats.

37. Why is my Vizsla restless at night?
    They may need more exercise or stimulation. A calming evening routine can help.

38. Why does my Vizsla bark at noises?
    Vizslas are alert. Use desensitisation and calm redirection to manage barking.

39. How do I stop my Vizsla pulling on the lead?
    Use a no-pull harness and reward calm walking with treats

40. How do I keep my Vizsla mentally stimulated indoors?
    Scent games, hide-and-seek, and puzzle feeders are perfect.

41. Can Vizslas live with cats?
    Yes, with slow, supervised introductions and consistent boundaries.

42. How do I help my Vizsla with separation anxiety?
    Build independence gradually and use enrichment activities.

43. Do Vizslas adjust well to change?
    They do with support and structure. Keep routines consistent during transitions.

44. How do I introduce a baby to my Vizsla?
    Let your Vizsla explore baby smells and sounds gradually. Always supervise interactions.

45. Why does my Vizsla eat grass?
    It’s common and usually harmless. Ensure their diet is complete with Poppy’s Picnic.

46. Can I jog with my Vizsla?
    Yes, Vizslas are great jogging companions once they’re fully grown.

47. Should I crate train my Vizsla?
    Yes, crates give Vizslas structure and a secure resting place.

48. How do I entertain my Vizsla indoors?
    Use food-based enrichment like puzzle toys and training games 

49. Why does my Vizsla howl?
    Howling is a form of communication. It can happen when they’re excited or left alone.

50. What’s a good daily routine for a Vizsla?

• Morning run and breakfast

• Midday nap and mental games

• Afternoon walk or training

• Evening enrichment and cuddle time Vizslas thrive on exercise, affection, and a consistent schedule.