If you're considering bringing a Vizsla into your family, it's essential to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs.
A good Vizsla breeder will have their dogs' health clearances on file, including hip and elbow evaluations to ensure they're not passing on genetic joint issues.
They will also have a strong understanding of the breed's temperament and be able to provide guidance on how to socialize and train your new puppy.
Reputable breeders will also be transparent about the health and temperament of the parents of the litter, so you can make an informed decision about your new companion.
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Finding a Breeder
The Vizsla Club of America provides a Breeder Referral List as a public service, which is not an endorsement of any individual, breeding program, or entity. If you're looking for a reputable breeder, start by contacting the VCA.
You can also reach out to experienced Vizsla owners in your area, who can provide valuable insights and recommendations. The VCA Breeder Referral List includes members who have agreed to talk with new owners, so don't hesitate to reach out to them.
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If you're interested in contacting a breeder directly, you can find a list of regional clubs and their contacts in the VCA Regional Club Breed Information and Referral Contacts. This list includes over 30 clubs across the United States, covering states from Arizona to Wisconsin.
To ensure you're working with a responsible breeder, look for adherence to the VCA Code of Ethics and health testing for hip dysplasia, thyroid function, and eye health. You can also check the OFA website for health records and PennHIP evaluation results.
Here is a list of the VCA Regional Club Breed Information and Referral Contacts:
A responsible breeder will also provide a written agreement for review prior to a sale, AKC registration papers, a signed written agreement, and a veterinary health certificate upon a sale. They will also provide support to puppy buyers for the life of the dog.
Breed Information
If you're considering bringing a Vizsla into your life, it's essential to know that they're a high-energy breed that requires regular exercise and mental stimulation. They thrive on physical and mental activity, so be prepared to provide them with plenty of opportunities to run, play, and learn.
The Vizsla Club of Central New England, which covers Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont, recommends that Vizsla owners provide at least an hour of exercise per day to keep their dogs happy and healthy.
Here's a list of some of the Vizsla clubs across the US, which can be a great resource for learning more about the breed and finding reputable breeders:
These clubs are a great way to connect with other Vizsla enthusiasts, learn about the breed, and find reputable breeders who prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs.
Getting Started in Dog Sports
Getting started in dog sports can be a fun and rewarding experience for you and your furry friend. Intro to Dog Sports is a great place to begin, where you can learn the basics and get a feel for what's involved.
Canine Partners is a great resource for those who want to participate in dog sports with their mixed-breed dog. You can enroll your mixed-breed dog in various programs and activities.
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Titles & Abbreviations can seem overwhelming at first, but don't worry, it's just a matter of learning the lingo. You'll need to familiarize yourself with common titles and abbreviations used in dog sports.
If you're still unsure which sport to try with your dog, take a look at Which Sport Should You Do With Your Dog? This section helps you narrow down your options based on your dog's breed, age, and energy level.
Get Started in Dog Training is essential before diving into dog sports. You'll need to teach your dog basic obedience skills and build a strong foundation for more advanced training.
If you're not able to attend in-person dog sports events, you can still participate in Virtual Dog Sports & Events. These online events offer a great way to stay engaged and have fun with your dog from the comfort of your own home.
Here's a quick rundown of some popular dog sports:
Breed Information and Referral Contacts
If you're new to the world of Vizslas, finding a reputable breeder can be a daunting task. The Vizsla Club of America (VCA) provides a Breeder Referral List as a public service, which includes members who have volunteered to provide information about the breed and recommend respected breeders who adhere to the VCA Code of Ethics.
The list is not an endorsement of any individual or breeding program, but rather a resource to help you find a trustworthy breeder. If you have questions, you can contact an experienced owner from the list, who can offer guidance on whether the breed is right for you or provide training tips for your energetic Vizsla.
To find a VCA Regional Club in your area, you can refer to the list below, which includes clubs from various states across the country. Each club has its own contact information and can provide you with valuable resources and advice.
The list includes over 30 VCA Regional Clubs from various states, each with its own contact information and resources. You can use this list to find a club in your area and get in touch with an experienced owner or breeder who can guide you through the process of finding a Vizsla that's right for you.
Responsibilities
As a responsible Vizsla breeder, you'll want to adhere to the Vizsla Club of America (VCA) Code of Ethics. This means you'll be committed to breeding healthy, well-tempered dogs that meet the breed standard.
To ensure the health of your breeding stock, you'll test for hip dysplasia after two years of age and obtain an OFA Certificate from the Orthopedic Foundation of Animals (OFA). This certification is crucial in identifying potential health issues.
You'll also follow the breed-specific recommendations for health testing by the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) for Vizslas. This includes testing for hip dysplasia, thyroid function, and eye health. Optional testing may also be done for sebaceous adenitis, von Willebrand disease, congenital cardiac disease, and elbow dysplasia.
To improve the breed, you'll strive to breed according to the AKC Breed Standard for the Vizsla. This standard was drafted and approved by the Vizsla Club of America.
Here are some key responsibilities of a Vizsla breeder:
- Know the pedigrees of their own dogs well and share them with prospective buyers.
- Share the health and temperament records of each dog going back five generations.
- Search pedigrees to explain why a particular breeding can improve upon the dam’s and sire’s characteristics.
- Introduce prospective buyers to their new Vizsla family.
- Provide a written agreement for review prior to a sale.
- Provide AKC registration papers, a signed written agreement, and a veterinary health certificate upon a sale.
- Provide support to puppy buyers for the life of the dog.
By following these responsibilities, you'll be able to provide a healthy and well-socialized puppy to its new owner.
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