Few dogs are as active as the GSP Vizsla Mix, which is a cross between the German Shorthaired Pointer (GSP) and the Hungarian Vizsla. The two breeds have a lot in common but also have several differences. When they breed, their offspring are usually energetic canines. You’ll discover how energetic and other details about the GSP Vizsla below.

Breed Overview

If an energetic and eager-to-please hunting dog is what you’re looking for, the GSP Vizsla is an excellent choice. Their parents are hunting dogs with more than their fair share of energy and playfulness. Agile and intelligent, the GSP Vizsla is not a dog to be adopted on a whim. They require far too much of your time and energy and need copious amounts of exercise and attention. If you’re prepared to give a GSP Vizsla the time and attention for training, you’ll get an energetic, highly social, and affectionate dog.

GSP Vizsla Mix Characteristics

GSP Vizsla Mix Puppies

GSP Vizsla puppies combine a high level of energy with a cat-like curiosity (along with the maturity of a toddler). You must have the time and energy to begin training your GSP Vizsla mix as soon as you bring them home, lest they get into bad habits that will be difficult to break later.

You should also know that once “mature,” a GSP Vizsla will still retain a puppy’s energy level and playfulness for several more years. They are hunting dogs at heart and always need something to do and someone to please. It’s also critical that you socialize them right from the start, especially with other pets, as GSP Vizslas have a high prey drive.

One last thing about GSP Vizslas you must know is that finding a breeder who has them for sale won’t be easy. This is a relatively new mixed breed, and although it has many excellent traits, they’re not as abundant as popular hybrids like the Goldendoodle, Labradoodle, or Cockapoo.

Temperament & Intelligence of the GSP Vizsla Mix

The German Shorthaired Pointer is a highly independent dog, once mature, and one of the more intelligent breeds. Hungarian Vizslas are just as intelligent but have a greater tendency to experience separation anxiety. Put the two breeds together, and you’ll get a slightly mixed (but still beautiful) bag that typically combines intelligence and clinginess with an independent streak.

GSP Vizslas are like puppies well into middle age, and they are nearly as affectionate as Golden Retrievers. They will let you know if they’re unhappy, need exercise, or want attention. GSP Vizsla’s are also people-pleasers that make training easier. Many, however, are impatient and easily distracted, so short training sessions are recommended.

Are These Dogs Good for Families?

The GSP Vizsla is a breed you must adopt with care. They demand a lot of time and attention and can often become destructive if not given enough.

If you have the time and energy to give, the GSP Vizsla is a fantastic dog that’s playful, affectionate, intelligent, and loves children. Once they reach full size, roughhousing with kids is no problem for a GSP Vizsla, but proper socialization is necessary due to their high prey drive.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets?

While they can be trained to behave around other pets, remember that the GSP Vizsla is the product of two of the world’s most famous hunting dogs. Introducing a full-grown GSP Vizsla into a household with cats, rabbits, ferrets, or other small animals is not the best idea. If raised with other dogs or cats from puppyhood and socialized with them well, a GSP Vizsla can get along with other pets (but it’s not guaranteed).

Things to Know When Owning a GSP Vizsla Mix

We’ve mentioned that the GSP Vizsla is an active breed that requires a lot of physical and mental stimulation. Below are several other requirements and things to know before you adopt one of these remarkable canines.

Food & Diet Requirements

The GSP Vizsla should be given high-quality, protein-packed dog food that includes healthy fats and whole meats like beef, chicken, fish, turkey, and lamb. Because they’re highly active, however, the GSP Vizsla needs even more protein. You should also select a dog food free of preservatives, colors, fillers, and grains. It’s essential to avoid overfeeding your GSP Vizsla since they tend to have problems with obesity. A constant supply of fresh, cool water is also a necessity for your new canine friend.

Exercise

German Shorthaired Pointers and Vizslas are two of the most energy-filled canines in the world. When mixed, they produce puppies that need 2 hours of daily exercise, including walks, runs at the dog park, fetch, tug-of-war, and anything else that keeps them moving and engaged. A large fenced-in yard is vital for the GSP Vizsla’s health and exercise requirements, and they’re unlikely to tolerate a small apartment or home.

Training

Thanks to their intelligent nature and eagerness to please their pet parents, the GSP Vizsla is a relatively easy dog to train. These brilliant dogs look forward to learning new tricks and skills, respond well to treat training, and can be taught various commands. Positive reinforcement is the best method to use when training a GSP Vizsla since they’re sensitive dogs who don’t do well with negativity and harsh, hurtful words.

Grooming ✂️

The German Shorthaired Pointer and Vizsla have similar smooth and short coats that make grooming them a breeze. Both also have a moderate shedding level, but they shed extensively twice a year. The GSP Vizsla should be brushed once a week or more when they’re shedding more than usual.

As for bathing your GSP Vizsla, once a month is typically enough unless they frequently hunt and get dirty regularly. Because of their long, floppy ears, it’s also critical to periodically check your pets’ ears to ensure they’re healthy and infection-free. They’ll need their nails trimmed every 4 or 5 weeks, and you can ask your vet for grooming tips if your dog has issues with the process.

Health and Conditions

Because they’re a newer designer dog, finding long-term information on the health issues the GSP Vizsla can be prone to is difficult. However, looking at both of their parent breeds gives us some insight and tells us that the average GSP Vizsla will be a relatively healthy, long-lived dog. Because they have deep chests, they are vulnerable to a life-threatening condition called bloat. They also are prone to hip dysplasia because they’re larger dogs, and larger dogs are more susceptible to the joint issue. Lastly, hyperthyroidism and epilepsy are somewhat common in both parents.

Male vs Female

Male GSP Vizslas tend to be more aggressive, while females are generally laid back and affectionate. Both, however, will be better off desexed if they aren’t going to be bred. A spayed or neutered dog typically lives up to 20% longer than one that hasn’t had this relatively simple procedure.

3 Little-Known Facts About the GSP Vizsla Mix

1. The GSP Vizsla Mix Has No Official History

Most dog breeders believe that the mix was accidentally bred as a “designer” dog, but no records of the first GSP Vizsla are known.

2. GSP Vizslas Don’t Make Good Guard Dogs

They’re too sensitive and friendly. They will bark primarily out of happiness rather than aggression.

3. GSP Vizslas Will Chase and Catch Small Animals

If you have critters in your yard, don’t be surprised to get a “gift” (dead animal) from your GSP Vizsla on occasion.

Final Mixed Thoughts about the GSP Vizsla Mix

The GSP Vizsla is an excellent pet for experienced dog owners who have the energy and time to train them. They’re large, playful, energetic, and affectionate, and they require a considerable amount of mental and physical activity to prevent boredom and stress. However, they will reward you by being one of the sweetest and most playful dogs you’ve ever owned. One thing is certain; if you adopt a GSP Vizsla, you’ll get a lot more exercise over the next several years!

See also: 

• Do Vizslas Bark a Lot? How Much & How to Stop It
• Poodle Vizsla Mix (Vizsladoodle): Care Guide, Pictures, Temperament & More

Featured Image Credit: Left – Brixiv, Pexels | Right – Vizslafotozas, Pixabay