Hungarian vyzhla

History of the Hungarian vyzhla breed

The history of four-legged hunters began in the IX–XI centuries, when their ancestors – police dogs - first appeared on the territory of Hungary. At that time, the country had not yet gained autonomy and was part of Pannonia, a Roman province where the climate was damp and unsuitable for comfortable living. This territory became home to the Magyar tribe, whose main trade was hunting. To hunt game, nomads bred sandy-colored dogs, which were perfectly oriented on the terrain and were adapted to the weather conditions of Pannonia.

Like the Magyars, these animals were distinguished by their love of freedom, so they often left their homes and spread throughout the province. The cops who migrated to neighboring regions remained unnoticed against the background of indigenous and already established breeds.

It is unknown how the fate of the Magyar dogs would have turned out if they had not attracted the attention of Hungarian hunters with their grace and agility. To improve the working qualities of the animals, they were crossed with cops of Eastern origin. The appearance of the dogs has also changed: thanks to the mating with Russian greyhounds, their fur has acquired a lighter shade. In the first half of the XVI century, saluki – sand greyhounds that accompanied the Turkish troops during the occupation of Hungary in 1526 had an influence on future generals.

Purposeful and random mating led to an amazing result – the appearance of golden hunting dogs with an established genotype. They were highly valued by Hungarian nobles, who used animals in baiting fur-bearing animals or birds. The ancestors of the vyzhl were considered universal hunters who coped with work in the forest or field and fearlessly rushed into the water for wounded game.

In addition to their excellent abilities for hunting and falconry, the dogs were notable for their energetic mind and spectacular appearance. The amber color not only pleased the eye, but also played an important role. Thanks to the conspicuous "fur coat", the doll stood out against the background of the landscape, being at a considerable distance. At the same time, falconry was mainly attended by cops with a reddish tinge of wool, while in the forest – with gold. In the future, the two lines of the breed mixed with each other.

Animal breeding was taken under careful control in the XVIII century. The initiator of the development of a new breeding program was a breeder named Zai. Under his leadership, work began in the Hungarian city of Zaingroce to improve the parameters of shorthair cops, which took more than 150 years. Hanoverian hounds, pointers became a promising "material" for knitting, kurtshaars and even poodles . As a result of the selection, it was possible to improve the exterior and field qualities of the Hungarian vyzhl – the future national treasure of the country.

In the XIX century, golden hunting dogs became less popular, losing the lead to German pointers. In order to preserve the breed, the import of cops from Europe was banned until 1880. With the disappearance of the "cynological barrier", the mass import of pointers to Hungary was resumed. The efforts of the breeder Zai and his followers were in vain. Now the existence of short-haired cops was remembered only by their ardent lovers, who continued to keep dogs. From these few purebred breeds, the modern breed line originated. In most pedigrees, you can find a mention of a bitch named Katya or a native of the Nimrod nursery.

Increasingly, Hungarian originals were found in European countries, as well as in Canada and the USA. The active export of dogs to America began after 1935, when representatives of the International Cynological Federation (FCI) entered the breed into the official register and approved its standard. Dog handlers of the USA actively took up the breeding of goats and soon increased their number, thereby protecting them from complete extinction. Although the pointers attracted more endurance, the Hungarian cops were distinguished by the ability to hunt in any terrain – both on land and in water.

Despite the measures taken, the number of survivors decreased significantly with the outbreak of World War II. Freed from the yoke of fascism, the Hungarians were guided by despair and fear, which is why they made a cruel decision - to kill all the dogs so that they would not become a military trophy of soldiers. Fortunately, the animals were partially preserved in neighboring countries, from where they began conquering the globe.

The name of the breed comes from the Hungarian word vizsgál, which means "analyze, search, study". Indeed, these dogs have an amazing ability to find prey even in dense thickets. Now Hungarian bulls are rarely used for their intended purpose, but the animals still managed to win the love of dog handlers around the world thanks to their docile nature and ability to become an indispensable companion.

Video: Hungarian vyzhla

The standard of the Hungarian vyzhla breed

The Hungarian vyzhla belongs to the friendly breeds of medium-sized dogs. These hunters fascinate at first sight: they have a muscular and not devoid of lightness body, long elegant paws, noble posture, proudly raised head and purposeful gaze. Even with a fleeting acquaintance with vyzhla, it is difficult not to notice her refined nobility.

The height of the animal at the withers and its body weight are fixed by the standard: for males – 56-66 cm and 20-27 kg, for females – 51-61 cm and 18-25 kg. At the same time, it is still not worth focusing on the approved parameters: the size is less important in comparison with the general symmetry and balance of Hungarian needles. The breed is distinguished by a pronounced sexual type: female individuals look more elegant than "men".

Head and skull

The classic cop type of head defines its characteristic: covered with elastic skin, dry, with clear rounded outlines. The dog's skull is slightly convex and wide. A small depression stretches from the bridge of the nose to the occipital protuberance. The brow ridges of the Hungarian cop are moderately pronounced. Bitches have a less massive skull compared to males.

Muzzle

The muzzle of the Hungarian vyzhla is quite large and long, has a U-shaped ending. The transition between the broad forehead and the bridge of the nose is smoothed. The straight back of the nose ends with a movable lobe, pigmented in color a tone darker than the color of the needle. Wide nostrils are a characteristic feature of hunting dog breeds. When examining the animal from the side, it is noticeable that the nose is in line with thick and tightly fitting lips. The shade of their edges and the outside of the gums coincides with the color of the nose of the Hungarian cop. The wings do not droop, the chewing muscles are developed.

Ears

The ears of the needle are characterized by a V-shaped shape with rounded ends and an average delivery. Their length is ¾ of the length of the head. The ears of the eagle are slightly shifted back, in a calm state they are adjacent to the cheeks. When the dog is alarmed by something, the ears, rising at the base, turn to the muzzle.

Eyes

The dog's eyes are medium-sized, have an oval shape and a slanted incision. Dry eyelids are adjacent to the eyeballs, completely hiding the whites. The iris is colored brown. Dark shades are preferred. The look is lively and insightful.

Jaws and teeth

The strong jaws of the Hungarian vyzla form a regular scissor bite without a gap between the incisors. The teeth stand vertically, while the lower ones are hidden by the upper ones. The complete formula includes 42 teeth.

Neck

Oval in cross-section, of medium length, with defined musculature and a convex nape. Its dimensions are proportional to the dimensions of the dog. Suspension – sagging skin on the throat – is absent.

Housing

Muscular and flexible body of the Hungarian vyzhla elongated format: the length of the trunk exceeds the height of the dog. The broad chest is formed by moderately rounded and retracted ribs. The pronounced withers turns into a strong straight back with prominent muscles. The loin slightly protrudes above the back, turns into an inclined and rounded croup. The bottom is smoothly curved towards the hind limbs.

Tail

Tapers from the base to the tip, set low. The uncooped tail is saber-shaped or straight, when the cop is moving, it rushes parallel to the ground. In the lowered state, it reaches the level of the joints. Working dogs are allowed to stop the tail by ¼ of the total length.

Forelimbs

Are parallel to each other, placed under the animal's torso. They are distinguished by strong bones and dry muscles. Tight-fitting shoulder blades and long shoulder joints do not detract from the plasticity of the Hungarian cop. Elbows pressed against the chest. Muscular forearms turn into strong wrists, and those into sloping pasterns. The latter end with arched oval-shaped paws. The pads are covered with thick leather. The short curved claws are colored brown.

Hind limbs

In comparison with the front ones, they look stronger – especially in the hip area. Long and muscular shins turn into short vertical metatarsals. The knee and hock joints have strong and pronounced angles of articulation. Oval paws are formed by bunched fingers that end in brown claws. The pads are elastic and rough to the touch.

Manner of movement

The Hungarian goat moves at a graceful trot, with acceleration – a continuous gallop. Each step of the dog is well balanced. In motion, the animal maintains a proud posture, the back remains straight. These cops have the ability to change direction during a jump.

Wool cover

Thick and short hair fits snugly to the body of the dog. In general, it is tough and rough, on the head and ears of the animal – silky and thin. The lower part of the tail is covered with longer hair. The undercoat is missing. Hungarian bulls do not have the characteristic smell of a "dog", so the breed may be a suitable option for people prone to allergies.

Color

The palette is represented by red shades – from wheat to reddish-golden. As the Hungarians say, this is the color of fried bread. The color of the cop should be uniform, except for the ears, where a darker hairline is allowed. Pigmentation of the eyelids, nose lobes, lips, claws and paw pads is combined with the main color of the coat. The standard provides for the presence of a white spot on the throat or chest of an animal if its diameter does not exceed 5 cm. White hairs on the paws are also acceptable.

Possible vices

Minor deviations from the standard are considered defects of the breed. Among the common ones are:

• the presence of a large angle of the hock joints or its absence;
• pale yellow, chestnut or black coat color;
• eye color different from shades of brown;
• atypical pigmentation of the nose lobe;
• bitch sexual type in males;
• rabbit paws.

The disqualifying vices of the Hungarian vyzhla are as follows:

• incomplete or excessive dental formula;
• cowardly or aggressive behavior;
• large points on the animal's body;
• partial pigmentation of the nose lobe;
• light yellow iris;
• constrained and heavy movements;
• undershot or overshot jaws;
• non-uniform coat color;
• additional row of eyelashes;
• entropy or ectropy of the eyes;
• presence of dewclaws;
• black color of the nose lobe;
• undescended testicles;
• drooping eyelids;
• harelip.

The character of the Hungarian vyzhla

The Hungarian Cop is one of the few hunting breeds that are suitable for novice dog breeders. These pets are rightfully considered universal, and all thanks to an astute mind, dedication, activity, friendliness and sociability. From balanced dogs, you can raise great companions not only for hunting, but also for everyday life.

Hungarian vyzhly sincerely enjoy communicating with family members, but they see only one person as the owner. With this honorary "title" comes a new duty – close contact with a pet. Shorthair cops are jokingly called "Velcro", because they accompany their owner even within the apartment. Wherever you go – in the kitchen, in the bedroom or in the bathroom – the animal will not leave this outing without attention. A locked room is an unreliable obstacle: the dog is more likely to curl up into a ball and wait for your return, rather than go about his business.

Hungarian vyzhla is a breed that requires unconditional love, patience and constant attention of the owner. If you are away from home for a long time, you should think about other dogs that are not so hard to bear separation from the owner. It can be sharpey , dachshund or shih tzu . It is necessary to take into account: and these breeds need regular company, so you should not perceive the animal only as a funny "accessory".

The ideal host for a Hungarian cop is a sporty and cheerful person, and even better – a hunter. Dogs do not like to be idle: for them, an active walk is more attractive than a long sleep on the couch. In addition, the developed intelligence literally "obliges" animals to resort to daily mental and physical exertion. The Hungarian vyzhla will not approve of walking only for coping with need. A lack of attention on the part of the owner will result in regular pranks, among which a gnawed sofa will seem like a trifle of life.

This breed is not suitable for people who need a ferocious guard. The maximum that a stranger can count on is a loud bark and a warning growl. The goat will not rush into the attack without a good reason, and even more so if the owner is not in danger. Hungarian cops prefer defensive tactics. A special training course will help improve the protective qualities of the dog – necessarily performed by a professional dog handler!

Since Hungarian eagles are distinguished by a playful disposition, they will make a great company for children. Representatives of the breed are patient and gentle, ready to actively participate in the proposed games and at the same time not show the slightest hint of fatigue. However, it is not necessary to leave the child alone with the dog: because of its large size, strength and activity, it can inadvertently push a little friend and thereby cause him injury. Otherwise, the vyzhly are understanding and sensitive pets who can easily cope with the role of "babysitter" while you rest after a working day.

It won't be difficult for Hungarian cops to make friends with their relatives. Even same-sex dogs do not consider each other rivals. Getting to know a cat will require your participation, and you should refrain from contacting small pets at all. Eagles are hunting dogs, so they can show aggression towards potential prey. For the same reason, you should not let the cop off the leash: animals tend to react violently to the presence of extraneous cats and even pigeons.

The lively temperament of Hungarian eagles is noticeable on a walk, and especially outside the city, in the field or on the river bank. Dogs seem to throw off invisible shackles and begin to hunt. No matter how far the cop runs in search of prey, she will never lose sight of the owner. Representatives of this breed work "for the public", wanting to hear praise and approval. The opportunity to swim is a separate delight for the girls. Do not interfere with your pet's instincts – and he will thank you with wet "kisses" and a calm evening after a busy day!

Education and training

Like most breeds, Hungarian bulls need early socialization. From the age of a puppy, it is necessary to teach the pet to react calmly to new sounds, smells and, of course, acquaintances – both with people and with animals. It is important to pay attention to the relationships in your "pack". The first thing to do is to establish clear boundaries of communication. The cop should know where her place is located: on the bed next to the owner or on a large and cozy sunbed.

If you have settled on the second option, the following rule comes into force – to teach the doll to rest in the corner reserved for her. Creating greenhouse conditions when you are next to your pet every minute is not the best option. Gradually train the dog to sleep in its place, ideally in a special box of suitable sizes. This will not only save you from annoying company, but also make the pet more independent and patient.

Hungarian cops are distinguished by a high level of intelligence, but still training will be useful only with the right approach to training the animal. It is better to work out the command "To me!" at an early age, when the baby does not leave the owner for a single step. From birth, the puppies of the vyzhly tend to carry in their mouths those objects that are of interest, and this is a good reason to teach the pet the "Aport!" command. It is important not to overdo it, otherwise the cop will get used to holding the thing in his teeth, but not giving it to the owner.

From three months, the intervention of an experienced trainer is necessary. He will test the puppy and give useful recommendations. A short course of educational training (5-6 classes) will also be useful. The main thing is not to teach a dog for the sake of the process itself and the desire to show off her wit in the circle of dog breeders. Each team should perform the main task – to simplify the interaction of man and animal.

Important: dog handlers recommend focusing on the puppy's well-being. If he is active, it is better to resort to mobile exercises. If he wants to rest, it is enough to work out the command "Place!".

The owner of the Hungarian vyzhla must show patience and perseverance. Rudeness is not the most appropriate tactic for communicating with an animal. Firstly, due to neglect, the dog will lose confidence in the owner. Secondly, productive learning is out of the question: the goat will not execute the command if you raise your voice or hit the animal. Attentive attitude, understanding and affection are the three pillars on which the training of any dog is based, and the Hungarian cop is no exception.

Care and maintenance

The owners of vyzhl note that this breed needs simple, but mandatory care. Short animal hair requires weekly combing (no more than twice) with a furminator glove or a brush made of natural bristles. Combs with sparse large teeth are ineffective. Due to the lack of undercoat, animals shed all year round, but especially in winter and spring. During this period, it is recommended to comb out the dog's coat every day.

It is worth bathing a Hungarian doll only as needed. Frequent procedures dry the skin and gradually wash off the natural protective fat layer from the wool. Use only pet shampoos for short-haired dog breeds. During the molting period, resort to the help of a rubber glove: this will speed up the removal of dead hairs. In winter, it is permissible to "clean" with dry shampoo, which is rubbed into the wool and then carefully combed.

Note: after swimming with a Hungarian cop in an open pond, it is necessary to wash the dog's body with warm running water. Bathing in worked-out quarries, reservoirs and ponds is undesirable: this is a favorable environment for parasites that cause intestinal and skin diseases.

The next object of attention is the dog's ears. Healthy auricles without ulcers and rashes, have a soft pink color. As a preventive measure, it is recommended to wipe them twice a month with a moistened cotton pad or a drying agent. If a cop shakes his head for no reason or rubs his ears on flat surfaces, contact a veterinary clinic: the cause is an ear mite or a slow–flowing inflammatory process.

The eyes of the Hungarian goat need daily inspection, especially after walking and hunting. If there is no excessive acidification and lacrimation, the owner's intervention is not required. Morning discharge is permissible and is removed with a cotton pad or a piece of lint-free cloth. Redness of the eyes is a good reason to contact a specialist who will determine the cause of inflammation. Often this is not only an allergic reaction to food, but also accidental damage, for example during active running in the tall grass.

As for the cop's mouth, it's worth taking care of brushing your teeth, but not more than once or twice a month, otherwise you will damage the enamel. To remove plaque, use a brush or a finger attachment, as a hygiene product – a paste for dogs. If the Hungarian goat eats dry food, the dentition is cleaned involuntarily. When only natural food is used, the procedure requires special care. For prevention, you can buy "bones" from compressed animal veins: they will slow down the formation of plaque.

Note: the use of "human" toothpastes is prohibited. Firstly, they are distinguished by a sharp and unpleasant taste for the animal, and secondly, a hygiene product can cause allergies to any of the components.

To cut the claws once a month, you need to purchase a claw cutter for large breeds. Burrs and sharp edges are smoothed with a nail file. Since most often dogs do not get excited about this procedure, it is necessary to get used to it from puppy age. If the goat is nervous and tries to run away from you, limit yourself to cutting the claws on one paw. The rest should be postponed until the next day. After the procedure, praise your pet for his patience and reward him with his favorite treat. This will help to establish a trusting relationship and in the future will accelerate the creation of a neat "manicure".

There are no special requirements for the nutrition of the Hungarian vyzhla. The main conditions are low fat content and caloric content of products, as well as the presence of nutrients necessary for the full development of the dog. Lean meat (boiled or scalded with boiling water) is a mandatory component of the cop's natural diet. It must be supplemented with cereals, seasonal vegetables and fruits, fermented milk products and boiled eggs (twice a week). The owners of vyzhl recommend adding vegetable oil to the animal's food every day (no more than 1 tbsp. l.): this will favorably affect the condition of the coat. To replenish fatty acids, you need to give the cop fish oil.

Please note: if you have made a choice in favor of natural nutrition, consult with a veterinarian regarding mineral and vitamin supplements for dogs.

For convenience, you can limit yourself to dry and wet premium, super premium or holistic feeds, ideally - options for dogs with sensitive digestion. The serving volume should match the one indicated on the package, its increase is fraught with overweight.

The diet of a shorthair cop should not include:

• products that cause bloating (peas, beans, raw cabbage);
• pickled, salty and spicy food with spices;
• milk with high lactose content;
• raw, boiled or fried river fish;
• tubular bones of any size;
• carbohydrate-containing foods;
• smoked and fried food;
• flour and sweet;
• fatty meat;
• berries.

Since this breed is among the active ones, the dog's bowl must be filled daily with fresh water, preferably bottled. Running water is also suitable if it is infused for 6-8 hours before use.

Hungarian goats feel comfortable both in a private house and in an apartment – however, subject to regular walking. Despite the ability to adapt to a harsh climate, dog handlers do not recommend keeping these dogs in an aviary because of the missing undercoat. For winter walks, it is worth buying warm clothes for the Hungarian vyzhla: a vest or a fleece-lined jumpsuit.

Representatives of the breed need a daily two–time walk, each - about 1.5-2 hours. To do this, it is recommended to find a fenced area away from busy car traffic and crowds of people. Only here the cops run in plenty without a leash and stretch their paws. Sports games – for example, chasing a frisbee or a ball – as well as agility (passing an obstacle course) will help to make the walk more fun and active.

Health and diseases of Hungarian survivors

With full loads and proper nutrition, representatives of the breed can boast of stable immunity. Hungarian cops are not prone to colds – a rarity for short-haired dogs. However, dog handlers identify a number of diseases that are most often found in cats. Among them:

• thyroid dysfunction and, as a result, hormonal failures;
• cancerous tumor (most often – in unsterilized bitches);
• retinal atrophy;
• joint dysplasia;
• epilepsy;
• cataract;
• allergy.

Shorthair cops are vaccinated against more dangerous diseases: enteritis, infectious hepatitis, rabies, leptospirosis, carnivorous plague. Vaccination is done at the age of two months with revaccination after 3 weeks (not counting vaccination in the first 7 days of the puppy's life). After that, it is necessary to protect the pet from contact with other people for 2 weeks and, if possible, not to take it out for a walk. At 6 and 12 months, the Hungarian needle is vaccinated with a complex vaccine with annual revaccination. Treatment from ecto- and entoparasites is also mandatory.

How to choose a puppy

The first step on the way to acquiring a healthy dog is the search for a specialized kennel. Private breeders offer a lower cost, but at the same time they do not guarantee good health and a balanced psyche of the Hungarian vyzhla.

The next stage is a conversation with the breeder. Ask him to shed some light on the nuances:

• titles and awards of parents;
• conditions of keeping a puppy;
• vaccinations made;
• diet.

Your task is to get as much information as possible about the future four–legged friend. Express a desire to "communicate" with a male and a bitch: this will help to identify possible defects of the baby. If the breeder evades a direct answer, he has something to hide. To avoid the risk, you should contact another nursery.

Now you can start getting acquainted with the litter. Healthy puppies are characterized by excessive activity and curiosity about the environment. If your baby's instincts are important to you, arrange a little check for him: tie a wing from the game to the fishing rod and lower it into the aviary. At the sight of prey, the Hungarian goat puppy will stand up, and this is a sure sign that you will get a great hunter.

Carefully examine the candidates for the role of your friend. A kid with good health is moderately well-fed, clean, does not limp and is playful towards you. Choose a medium-sized puppy with no noticeable defects. Be prepared for the fact that the appearance of the baby will change with age. For greater confidence in compliance with the breed standard, it is worth stopping at adult dogs.

The gender of the Hungarian vyzhla is an equally important selection criterion. Bitches are distinguished by a more docile and friendly character in contrast to males – independent, wayward and inclined to "challenge" the leadership of the owner. At the same time, female individuals often create additional problems during estrus, which can turn into an unwanted pregnancy.

Most often puppies are put up for sale in 1.5-2 months. At this age, the kids have already learned to eat on their own, have acquired the skills of primary socialization, are strong enough and ready for a new life without maternal care. Buying a younger doll will turn into a lot of problems, including an unstable psyche and weakened immunity.

The price of Hungarian vyzhla

The price of Hungarian cop puppies is determined by several factors:

• location and popularity of the kennel;
• class of dog – for participation in exhibitions (shows), breeding (breed) or keeping as a pet (pet);
• characteristics of the animal (including compliance with the breed standard);
• awards and titles of parents.

The average cost of a Hungarian broom varies from $100 to $400. Dogs with an elite pedigree can cost owners a more impressive amount, and animals with defects cost less. People from the bird market are attracted by a low price, but there is a high risk of buying a purebred dog with weakened immunity. Do not spare money for a future companion, because the joyful moments that communication with the Hungarian vyzhla will give are priceless!