The Vizsla Dachshund mix is a crossbreed between a purebred Vizsla and a purebred Dachshund. There aren’t many nicknames this adorable dog goes by, but I’ve heard them being referred to as Vizshunds.
This mix is truly adorable… I can safely say this as I’ve run into three of these beautiful mixes in the last year!
This hybrid breed is gaining popularity due to its unique and charming traits, such as its loyalty, intelligence, and playfulness.
In this article, we will delve into the: history, temperament, physical characteristics, lifespan, price, grooming needs, training, exercise, common health issues and more of the Vizsla Dachshund mix.
Vizsla history
The Vizsla, also known as the Hungarian Pointer, is a hunting dog that originated in Hungary. These gorgeous looking dogs are considered medium in size, lean and athletic. And boy do they have energy!
The vizsla’s primary use was to hunt birds and small game such as rabbits and hares. Interestingly, the breed was nearly extinct after World War II, but dedicated breeders helped revive it, and it has since become popular for its hunting and family-oriented qualities.
Dachshund history
The Dachshund, also known as the “wiener dog,” is a breed of dog that originated in Germany. Its long body and short legs were designed to help it dig into burrows and hunt badgers, which was their original purpose.
Today, Dachshunds are kept as family pets and are popular due to their adorable looks, loyal nature and desirable temperament. Dachshunds are one of the most popular dogs across the world now, far more popular than vizslas… But who knows, maybe one day Vizslas will catch up!
Vizsla Dachshund mix temperament
The Vizsla Dachshund mix is a highly intelligent and loyal breed.
They are also known for their playfulness and affectionate nature, making them great family pets.
Although it’s worth knowing that this breed can be very attached to its owner and may become anxious when left alone for long periods.
They are typically very good with children and other pets and make great companions for families or individuals who are willing to give them the attention they crave.
My experience meeting three Vizshunds
I’ve come across this mix three times in the last year in various dog parks around california and I cannot get over how gorgeous they are.
It could be my absolute favorite mix breed of all time… Not only does it have the cutest and kindest temperament, but every time im stunned by the vizsla’s beautiful facial structure miniaturized into the size of a dachshund.
They really did melt my heart, everytime.
And yes, every time this mix was more than happy to play with my dogs without a fuss! So they seem super friendly from what I’ve experienced.
This could have been down to good early-on socialization given by the owner, or natural temperament.
Vizsla Dachshund mix appearance
The physical appearance of a Vizsla Dachshund mix can vary greatly depending on the individual dog’s genetic makeup.
However, most breeders intentially develop this breed to be small like the dachshund, but with the looks of a vizsla.
What you typically get is a larger dachshund (but still with short legs), with the vizslas facial looks and coat color. But of course, this can change every time!
Size
The Vizsla Dachshund mix is a medium-sized dog breed that typically weighs between 20 and 50 pounds and stands about 10 to 25 inches tall at the shoulder.
Head and Face
The Vizsla Dachshund mix usually has a long, narrow muzzle like a Dachshund, with a broad forehead and expressive eyes that are almond-shaped and may be brown or hazel in color. Their ears may be long and floppy like a Dachshund’s or shorter and more upright like a Vizsla’s.
Body
The body of the Vizsla Dachshund mix is usually lean and muscular, with a deep chest and a long, tapered tail. They may have a deep chest like a Vizsla, but with shorter legs like a Dachshund.
Vizsla Dachshund coat colors and markings
The Vizsla Dachshund mix can inherit coat colors and markings from both breeds. Some common colors and markings include:
- Solid colors such as brown, black, and cream.
- Bi-colors such as black and tan, or brown and white.
- Tri-colors such as black, tan, and white.
I must admit, all three of the mixes I saw were the standard color of the Vizsla. A rich golden tan/brown color without markings.
Vizsla Dachshund mix price
The price of a Vizsla Dachshund mix can vary depending on the breeder, location, and availability. But in general, these pups go for about $1000-$1500.
As with any crossbreed, it is important to choose a reputable breeder who is knowledgeable about the breed and the potential health issues that can arise. Always avoid puppy mills and be wary of weirdly low prices.
Lifespan
The lifespan of a Vizsla Dachshund mix is typically around 12 to 15 years, which is similar to the lifespan of both parent breeds.
In general crossbreeds are a tad healthier than their respective parents breeds, both of which in this case have high lifespans.
Grooming
The Vizsla Dachshund mix has a short or medium-length coat that is super easy to maintain.
Brushing then with a slicker brush once a week will be more than enough to maintain this short clean coat. In general, this breed does not shed very much!
In terms of bathing, this mix is naturally hygienic and does not give off a strong doggy odor that many long haired breeds do. Bathing once every 3-4 months is more than enough to keep them clean.
All in all, the grooming needs of a the vizsla dachshund is very low.
Common health issues
As with any crossbreed, the Vizsla Dachshund mix can inherit health issues from both parent breeds. Some common health issues include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Eye problems such as cataracts and glaucoma
- Epilepsy
- Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD)
If your vizsla dachshund mix has particularly short legs like it’s dachshund parent then you’ll need to be more careful with IVDD. The long back/short leg combination makes dogs vulnerable spinal issues when they jump up/down or do too much sprinting.
Additionally, owners will need to pay attention to their ears. The large floppy ears on this mix breed can make it hard for dust and dirty to leave naturally, causing frequent ear infections.
Still, despite the above, this mix is generally a healthy one and has a generous lifespan of 12-15 years.
Training
Training is essential for the Vizsla Dachshund mix, as they can be strong-willed and may have a high prey drive due to their hunting instincts.
Although they can be trained to a high level, owners will need to be fairly strict and consistent to achieve good results.
Coming from the vizsla’s side, this mix is likely to have high energy with a low attention span, making training a little tough.
Still, with a regular routine in place along with tasty training treats. Training is more than doable.
In addition to training, it’s important this mix receives early socialization and obedience training to ensure they behave correctly around new dogs and strangers.
Without sufficient socialization this mix could be a little feisty and aloof to new people and dogs.
Exercise needs
The Vizsla Dachshund mix requires plenty of physical exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy, healthy, and well-behaved.
This mix requires anywhere between 45-90 minutes per day depending on their size.
If they’re more like a vizsla then 90 minutes will be more appropriate, if they’re more like a dachshund then 45 minutes will be better.
But one things for sure, regardless of their size, this mix has A LOT of energy and it needs to be released.
By providing enough mental stimulation and physical exercise, owners will also stand a better chance at training their vizshund successfully.
Some downsides to this mix
I think there’s a few extra points that any interested owners should know first. Here they are:
- The Vizsla Dachshund mix is not recommended for people who live in small apartments or homes without a yard.
- This breed can have A LOT of energy. And if owners are able to provide enough outlets for them to release this energy (physical exercise and mental stimulation), hyperactivity and destructive behavior could be the result.
- They may be prone to separation anxiety if left alone for long periods, so it is important to provide them with plenty of attention and mental stimulation.
- Due to their hunting instincts, they may not be suitable for households with small pets such as rabbits or guinea pigs.
- The Vizsla Dachshund mix is a relatively new breed, so there may be some variations in temperament, appearance, and health issues depending on the individual dog’s genetic makeup.
Last thoughts
The Vizsla Dachshund mix is a unique and charming breed that combines the best traits of both parent breeds.
They are loyal, intelligent, and playful, making them great family pets. However, it is important to choose a reputable breeder, provide them with proper training and exercise, and be aware of potential health issues.
With the right care and attention, the Vizsla Dachshund mix can make a wonderful addition to any household.