Vizsla Lifespan: How Long Do Vizslas Live?

Appearance and Behavior

Vizslas are sporting dogs with high energy and great stamina. This eager and graceful dog is ideal for outdoor activities such as biking, running, and hunting. The Vizsla does not tolerate being alone for long periods of time, so the ideal family needs to be active. This intelligent breed is very loyal to owners, great with kids, and are great watchdog. Although this breed is good with other dogs, they should be monitored around small exotic pets because of their instinct to hunt.

Vizsla history

The Vizsla was bred for withstanding long days working in the field alongside their owners. This breed actually came close to becoming extinct after World War l; however, they were saved by Vizsla Fanciers. In 1945, The Hungarians fled Russian occupations in World War ll taking their Vizslas with them. In the 1950s, they were reintroduced into the world and recognized by the AKC (American Kennel Club) in 1960.

How Long Do Vizsla’s Live?

Vizslas have an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years; however, the longest-living Vizslas lived to be 21 years old! Although this breed has a long lifespan, there are certain health conditions that can shorten it.

• Glaucoma. Glaucoma is a sudden increase in eye pressure. Symptoms are redness, severe pain, and watery eyes. Some owners may notice a cloudiness in the eyes. This condition occurs with age and should be monitored by a veterinarian.
• Epilepsy. Epilepsy is a condition of abnormal rapid electrical waves firing in the brain. Vizslas can live a long and healthy life with epilepsy if properly managed.
• Von Willebrands Disease. Von Willebrands disease is an inherited bleeding disorder in dogs. Most breeds, like the Vizsla, are prone to this disorder. Before surgery, doctors will test this breed for the disorder to avoid excessive bleeding.
• Hypofibrinogenemia. Hypofibrinogenemia is an abnormal shortage of fibrinogen in the blood accompanied by excessive bleeding.
• Hypertrophic Osteodystrophy. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy is an orthopedic development disorder that can cause pain and swelling of the joints.
• Osteochondritis Dissecans. Osteochondritis dissecans is an inflammatory condition that occurs when diseased cartilage separates from the underlying bone.

Keeping Vizslas Healthy

Although there is not much history about the longest-living Vizsla, I am sure this dog had a clean bill of health to live this long. In the last section, a list of common diseases and disorders is listed to show what can threaten this breed’s health. Investing in pet insurance will keep your Vizsla as healthy as possible and help you financially with medical bills. Vizslas can live a long and happy life if diagnosed with these conditions, but they have to be properly managed. Bi-annual veterinary visits, vaccines, spaying or neutering, exercise, and proper nutrition are all ways to provide preventative care.

Diet and Exercise

As mentioned before, Vizslas require a lot of exercise and proper nutrition. This breed should have at least 30 minutes of activity per day to remain healthy and stimulated. Whether indoors or outdoors, this breed enjoys hanging out with its owners. High-calorie diets are best for Vizslas because they burn a lot of calories, which is why they are so slender. If you are unsure of what to feed your dog, consult with a veterinarian on how much food to feed.