The Pitbull and Vizsla are both popular breeds cherished by dog owners because of numerous attractive traits. If you like these two dogs but for some reason, you can’t have both, then having a mixed breed is surely a way to get the best of both breeds.
A Pitbull Vizsla Mix is a designer dog with American Pitbull Terrier and Vizsla parents. These adorable breeds uniquely combine to create a new dog with an almost guaranteed people-loving and outgoing demeanor if properly handled.
Just before taking the leap of faith and bringing home this cute-looking Pittie mix, we can help you decide whether or not this dog is right for you.
History of Pitbull Vizsla Mix
As a designer dog, the precise origin of the Pitbull Vizsla mix is still obscure. But it is clear they have been around for only a few decades and were likely bred by some group of people seeking to combine the best traits of both Pitbull and Vizsla breeds. Unfortunately, because the Pitbull Vizsla Mix is a crossbreed, they are not recognized by any kennel club, including the American Kennel Club (AKC)
The parent breeds no doubt belies the true origin of this cross.
Breed Origin Of Pitbull Vizsla Mix
Originated in the United Kingdom, Pitbulls were developed from a cross between old English Bulldogs and Terriers well known for their gameness and unmatched tenacity. The creation of these dogs was motivated by a cruel canine sport called bull baiting. Following the prohibition of this dog sport by the British Parliament, the interest of the public diverted to ratting and dog fighting sports.
The loyal and human-friendly nature of the Pitbull can be attributed to the selective breeding and culling of this dog breed aimed towards discouraging human aggression. Since the import of these bulldogs to America, they have thrived as an all-around farm dog. The UKC named the breed American Pitbull Terrier. However, the AKC took recognition of the breed under the name American Staffordshire Terrier.
The Vizsla or Hungarian pointer is a breed of aristocratic history cherished by early warlords and nobles who used them to hunt feathered games and hares. These dogs were bred with a dual purpose — to point and to retrieve. It is believed that the Vizslas were regal and reliable hunting companions used to that effect by the people of Maygar. In fact, ancient stone etchings revealed the Maygar hunter with his falcon and a Vizsla.
Although the Vizsla almost went into extinction after World War I, they managed to survive and the first Vizsla was smuggled into the United States in 1950. The Vizsla breed gained recognition from the American Kennel Club in 1960. However, they have long been a distinct breed with excellent scenting prowess.
Pitbull Vizsla Mix Appearance
The Pitbull and the Vizsla are both adorable dog breeds. A combination of these two will give rise to a stunning pup that is fascinating to stare at.
The appearance of parent breeds resonates with the original purpose. The Pitbull has a sturdy and compact body expected from a dog bred to fight. But it is clear enough that the Vizslas are lean and light dogs bred with incredible speed to excel in game hunting.
The Pitbull Vizsla Mix will most certainly be a medium-sized dog with a robust and muscular body. But whether they will inherit the brick-like head, stocky build and the almond-shaped eyes of the Pitbull or the lean, light build and long, silky ear of the Vizsla is a game of genetics and luck.
How Big Does A Pitbull Vizsla Get? (Height and Weight)
Pitbulls tend to measure between 17 to 20 inches, and they weigh from 30 to 80 pounds.
Vizslas are a bit taller but may be lighter in weight. They can stand as high as 24 inches as an adult; females can be as small as 23 inches.
The Pitbull Vizsla Mix will likely be between 18 to 22 inches tall and could be as heavy as 40 to 70 pounds.
Whether your Pitbull Vizsla Mix pup takes after mom or dad, you’re going to have a moderately sized dog on your hands— not too big, not too small.
Also Read : Pitbull Cocker Spaniel Mix: A Fast, Fun And Feisty Friend
Pitbull Vizsla Lifespan
Generally, the Pitbull Vizsla Mix can live between 10 to 15 years without any serious health issues. You can ensure that your Pitbull Vizsla Mix lives a happy, enjoyable and long life by meeting all his needs. Make sure your fur baby gets healthy meals, regular exercise and vet checkups.
Before bringing a pup home it is wise to check for the necessary health certifications. It’s particularly important to know what health issues they are likely to have and devise preventive measures from the get-go.
Pitbull Vizsla Characteristics and Temperament
Speaking of mixed breeds, predicting their temperament is generally a difficult task since there’s only limited information available about them. Regardless, we can make a few educated guesses and state the most probable qualities they could inherit from their parents. But first, let’s look at the unique characteristics of both breeds.
American Pitbull Terrier Temperament
The American Pitbull Terrier is a friendly, fun-loving and affectionate companion. The APBT is extremely alert but rather gentle and welcoming to everyone including strangers. So, don’t be surprised whenever your pit is too quick to give your visitor a tail-wagging greeting devoid of suspicion.
The people-pleasing demeanor of the pitbull always comes with a strong desire for attention and love from their humans. They can go over and beyond to protect their family and territory. The Pitbull is very patient and will make a great companion for children.
If you are a fan of the outdoors and adventure, you’ll have a good time with this breed. They’ll need a lot of physical activity and mental stimulation to thrive and should never be left in lonesome.
Vizsla Temperament
The Vizsla gets an A in the area of temperament. They are described as “Velcro Vizsla” due to their overly clingy and human-loving traits. They make an affectionate companion but may not be great pets for a home with young children.
Highly vocal and energetic, the Vizsla is not suited for indoor or apartment living. If you have a super busy life and cannot afford to spend time with this breed, you’ll end up with an unhappy and destructive pooch.
Because this breed shows great adaptability and zest for life, he can be a good fit for different purposes such as a jogging mate, service dog, sports, hunting, therapy dog, guide dog and more.
The Mixed Breed
Both Pitbull and Vizslas are known for their intelligence. Hence, their hybrid should be highly trainable learning new commands easily. The Pitbull Vizsla will likely be very alert with keen senses making them a perfect watchdog.
The Pitbull Vizsla is expected to be an outgoing, active and loyal friend with eagerness to please and protect their owners but equally longing for a loving and tender treat.
We can certainly tell that the Pitbull Vizsla Mix will possess a high prey drive, especially toward smaller pets. Therefore, ensure you don’t let them run off-lead except in an enclosed area. Handling this breed may require a firm hand but with enough patience and discipline, you will be rewarded with a bundle of pleasure.
Health Problems Of Pitbull Vizsla Mix
The topic of mixed breeds has lingered continuously as a center of controversy by two different groups of breeders. Some breeders claim they are less healthy than pedigree canines due to their unpredictability.
Nothing could be further from the truth. In reality, mixed breeds are healthier and less prone to health problems as a result of their wide gene pool. This does not entirely rule out the possibility of genetic diseases in mixed breeds and in fact, mixed breeds can still inherit some health issues of both parent breeds.
The common genetic problems in Pitbull Vizsla Mix include, but are not limited to:
- Hip Dysplasia
- Patellar Luxation
- Congenital Heart Diseases
- Allergies
- Hypothyroidism
- Progressive Retinal Atrophy
- Von Willebrand’s disease
- Dental disease
- Obesity
Pitbull Vizsla Mix Coat and Grooming
This Pitbull Vizsla Mix often combines the features of either parent’s coats and colors. Generally, the Pit and Vizsla have shiny, dense, single-layered coats which shed moderately all-year-round. Grooming is usually minimal, but should not be neglected.
Given that the Pitbull’s coat comes in diverse colors and color combinations, you can’t run out of colors to expect. The coat color can vary from pup to pup. However, there’s always an equal chance of your pup taking after the rusty gold coat of the Vizsla.
Because they are not heavy shredders, weekly brushing will suffice and they will rarely need a bath since they will have a self-cleaning ability.
Living Needs Of A Pitbull Vizsla Mix
Before making up your mind to this special mix of Pitbull, you should have a clear picture of the specific needs required for your pooch to maintain a healthy and happy lifestyle.
Feeding Requirements
First and foremost, both breeds are super active and athletic hence their nutritional needs should be met by providing high-quality dry food, most of which contain all essential nutrients, particularly proteins in an adequate amount.
You can all supplement their diet with vitamin-rich vegetables. If you decide to feed your dog any human food, do well to determine whether it’s safe.
Depending on their age and activity level, you can decide the quantity of food enough for your Fido. In raising a healthy canine, feeding them responsibility is one of the lowest-hanging fruits that should not be neglected. Even though the Vizslas are skinny all the way, obesity is a common problem with pitties especially well overly fed.
Training and Exercise Requirements
Your hybrid will most certainly be intelligent, but they may be a bit assertive if they prefer the Pitbull half of their background. Puppyhood is a crucial stage in the life of your pet friend and not one that is too early to begin socialization. Allow him to have myriads of experiences through introducing him to different sights and sounds, meeting new people or other animals.
The Pitbull Vizsla mix is highly receptive to vocal commands, enabling the training procedure to be considerably smooth and simple. To get the best result, it’s advisable to begin training at a young age to eliminate every tinge of bad behavior as well as form a stronger bond, thereby, making your pooch a more rewarding companion.
Just like the parent breeds, you can expect to have a high-energy pooch. Hence, a minimum of one hour per day will be required to exercise your pooch and burn off stored energy. When taking your pooch outdoors, make sure he is always on the leash to prevent the endangerment of other animals.
Do not choose to have a Pitbull Vizsla Mix, if you have a busy lifestyle because their good-natured and people-loving instincts can easily turn into full-fledged mischief when left for too long in lonesome.
Final Thoughts
A lot of factors always go into deciding whether or not any particular breed is right for you. People who have little experience with dogs may find this breed difficult to manage, due to the amount of time and patience needed to mold him into a bundle of delight.
Like any other hybrid dog, each Pitbull Vizsla Mix is unique in that it combines the best traits of both sides. However, you can get a better grasp of your pup if you take a close look at the parent breed.
The Pitbull Vizsla mix has a smart, biddable and affectionate demeanor. He will make an excellent family pet but needs an active family who can shower him with lots of love and attention. If you have won the heart of this little guy at a young age, he will reciprocate in the same measure and you’ll be rewarded with the sweetest family-oriented pet.
Given that the Pitbull Vizsla mix is a self-cleaning dog with a short coat and moderate shedding, grooming will require lesser attention than many other hybrid dogs.
Irrespective of the designer dog trend, many of them are left in neglect and eventually picked up by adoption centers and shelters. So, if you are considering between buying or adoption, the way to go is certainly adoption.
