Vizslas are elegant and soft, with graceful, gleaming hair, and are well-known for their hunting skills.
According to the American Kennel Club Vizslas rank 31st among the 196 breeds.
The red-coated Vizsla was originally bred in Hungary to be a gundog. It has an athletic build. Vizslas have beautiful ears, long, silky hair, and calm faces that stay focused until they are at work.
The first Vizsla, also known as the Hungarian Pointer was brought to America by a U.S. State Department employee in 1950. It was smuggled from communist Hungary. In 1960, the American Kennel Club designated this breed as its 116th.
Vizslas can be as charming and beautiful as they are adorable. Vizslas were bred to hunt with their masters and loved being around people. This breed can suffer from separation anxiety so make sure your Vizsla is always surrounded by you.
Vizslas were once chasing games, but their athletic prowess today makes them great companions for running and biking. Some Vizslas require more, while others may only need 30 minutes of walking each day.
Dog food should be high quality for a lean and athletic dog. You can feed Vizslas a healthy diet. Although Vizslas are known to eat well, their caloric requirements can be affected by age and activity level. An active Vizsla who is younger and more active may burn more calories than a more sedentary Vizsla.
We’re aware that the quality of your Vizsla’s food can have a significant impact on its health. Therefore, we reviewed many dog food options available and determined the best for your Vizsla.
What is the best dog food for Vizsla dogs?
We researched the market to determine the best Vizsla dog food. We considered their athleticism as well as their skin, coat, metabolism, and coat. Here’s a quick overview of our recommendations:
Our top pick: Merrick Grain FreeRunner-up: The Farmer’s DogFresh/Super premium: NomNomMost popular: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain FreeBest for Seniors : Victor Senior Healthy Weight Dry FoodBest For Vizslas With Allergies : Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Dog Food
Five nutritional needs of Vizslas
You need to feed your Vizsla the best dog food that meets their nutritional needs. Vizslas can be genetically predisposed for certain conditions. However, the dog food you select could make it less likely.
Your Vizsla will live a longer and healthier life with the right dog food. This will give them more energy. These are the essential components of a healthy diet for your Vizsla.
Protein
To fuel its muscles, a Vizsla’s body is lean. The amount of protein your Vizsla needs throughout its lifetime will vary. To help boost growth and give your Vizsla puppy the best start, it will require a diet that contains no less than 23 per cent protein. Your Vizsla will need 18% protein as it reaches adulthood.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates are an important part of your dog’s diet. They provide energy, vitamins, and minerals. Be careful when choosing the carbohydrates for your Vizsla.
Certain Vizslas are allergic to certain carbohydrate sources, such as grains. Avoiding these allergens will help keep your Vizsla happy and reduce your vet bills.
Fats
Your Vizsla needs fat to fuel its high energy demands. Vizslas love running, so fat provides them with the fuel they need to run. Adult Vizslas require no less that 6 percent of fat for their growth. Puppies only need 8 percent fat.
Fruits and vegetables
Vizslas love to eat hearty meals to replenish their energy. They also enjoy vegetables and fruits, whether they are part of their dog food or added to their own diet. Vegetables are healthy treats that are high in fiber and vitamins but low in sugar. You can offer your Vizsla carrots, spinach, and broccoli.
Prebiotics and probiotics
Prebiotics and probiotics are trendy supplements for humans. You may be wondering if they are necessary to maintain your Vizsla’s health. These biotics can improve digestion by promoting good bacteria in your dog’s gut.
Consult your vet before adding probiotic or prebiotic supplements to the Vizsla’s food. These supplements may not be necessary for your Vizsla, as higher quality dog food might already contain them.
9 Health Tips for Vizslas
There are specific needs for Vizslas that are not found in other breeds. When choosing the right dog food for your Vizsla, consider their lean muscle mass and love of running.
Health issues
Vizslas are a carefully bred breed. They have a limited gene pool and can be more susceptible to certain diseases and conditions. These conditions can impact the food you choose for your Vizsla.
Dental Disease
Dental problems can affect as many as 80 per cent of dogs before age 2. Vizslas are more susceptible to developing them. Tartar buildup can lead to these conditions. It is important that your Vizsla maintains a clean smile. Gum infections can lead to gum disease in dogs, which can cause damage to their hearts, liver and joints.
Blood Diseases
Vizslas are more susceptible to rare blood disorders such as hemolytic anemia or thrombocytopenia. These diseases occur when the dog’s immune system attacks its red blood cells. If the dog’s immune system fails to protect its platelets, it will become anemic. This can lead to abnormal bleeding and bruising.
Vizslas also have Von Willebrand’s Disease. It is a potentially deadly clotting disorder. These disorders should be diagnosed before any surgery.
Epilepsy
Some Vizslas may experience idiopathic seizures (seizures without a known cause). Epilepsy can be treated with medication if your pet has been diagnosed. Your vet should be notified immediately if your pet experiences a seizure.
Eye Conditions
Glaucoma is a condition that can also affect humans. Your veterinarian should screen your Vizsla for this disease. Older Vizslas may experience vision problems from cataracts. Distichiasis is a condition that occurs when extra hairs grow in the eyelids and rub against the surface of the eyes. This can lead to irritation and corneal ulcers if it is not addressed.
Bones and Joints
A Vizsla that is lean and lanky may be more at risk of hip dysplasia or arthritis. Sometimes, the Vizsla might have his kneecap slip out of its place. This can cause severe pain for your dog. The sooner your dog is diagnosed, then the quicker treatment can begin.
Lergies
Vizslas may have food allergies so it is smart to choose grain-free dog food. It is not something anyone wants for their Vizsla to experience the itching and irritation that can result from an allergic reaction to their food. Your Vizsla’s skin will be healthy and happy if they eat a diet that isn’t high in grains.
Conditions of the Skin
Vizslas are more likely to have skin conditions that can be related to allergies. It can cause scaly lesion on the neck, ears, and trunk.
Separation Anxiety
Vizslas were bred to hunt dogs and it shouldn’t surprise that they want to stay close to their owners. Vizslas can be active and need lots of attention due to their energy.
Vizslas may experience separation anxiety when they are separated from their owners. This can lead to destructive behavior, howling and even accidents in the bathroom.
There are many ways to help your Vizsla, including taking them to work if they’re allowed, or hiring a pet sitter. Spend as much time with your pet as you can, so that the moments when you are away are less stressful.
Vizsla Feeding Program
For their health and development, adult Vizslas should be given twice daily while puppies should be fed three to four times per day.
Adult Vizsla 55 lbs: 3-4 cups per day of dog food, or approximately 1,400 calories
Young Vizsla 40 lbs: 2 1/2-3 cups dog food daily, or approximately 1,100 calories
Daily Calorie Intake
To maintain a healthy weight, a full-grown Vizsla of 55 pounds should consume approximately 1,400 calories daily. For healthy growth, a 35-pound puppy needs 1,100 calories daily.
ctivity Level
Vizslas were born to run. A Vizsla should get at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Vizslas need to eat dog food that is rich in fats, grains-free carbohydrates, protein, and other nutrients to fuel their energy levels and support their muscles.
Our 2023 Picks: Best Vizsla Dog Food
Merrick Grain-Free
Beef is the number one ingredientGlucosamine and chondroitin support joint healthPrice:$2.33/lbCHECK PRICE
The Farmer’s Dog
Made with fresh ingredients. No need to over-feed.
NomNom
For premium health, blended and portioned
Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain Free
Grain-free with buffalo as the first ingredientFruits and vegetables provide antioxidantsPrice:$1.74/lbCHECK PRICE
American Journey Grain-Free Dry Dog Food
Premium dog food at a lower priceNutritious ingredients provide phytonutrients, antioxidants, and Omega fatty acidsPrice:$1.79/lbCHECK PRICE
American Natural Premium Original Recipe Dry Food for Dogs
Probiotics and a pea-free formula help aid digestionComplex carbohydrates offer fiber and long-lasting energyPrice:$1.58/lbCHECK PRICE
Ollie
Fresh food delivered directly to your home.
Victor Senior Dry Dog Food for Healthy Weight
Nutrient-dense and grain-freeGlucosamine and chondroitin help keep joints healthyPrice: $1.35/lbCHECK PRICE
Wellness Core Grain-Free, Reduced Fat Dry Dog Food
25 percent less fat than Wellness CORE’s original versionTurkey flavor Vizslas lovePrice:$2.77/lbCHECK PRICE
A Puppy Above
Fresh food that can be purchased with or without a subscriptionBlended from human-grade whole foodsPrice:VariesCHECK PRICE
Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Dry Food for Dogs
Limited list of ingredientsEasy to digestPrice:$1.89/lbCHECK PRICE
The Overall Best Dog Food for Vizslas
High-quality food is essential for Vizslas, a breed known for its energy and lean appearance. We’ve narrowed down our selection to make it easier for you to choose from the many available dog foods. We have narrowed down the top dog food options to make it easier for you.
Best Dog Food: Merrick Grain-Free
All-naturalFree from grains, corn, soy, and artificial preservativesIngredients support Vizsla health
Merrick Grain-Free Adult Dry Dog Food contains beef from trusted farmers as the number one ingredient. This Made-in-America option is packed with 65 percent protein, and healthy fat.
The remaining 35 percent is made from fruits, vegetables, vitamins and minerals. To support Vizslas’ hips and joints, glucosamine is included.
Pros:
Beef is the number one ingredientGlucosamine and chondroitin support joint healthOmega-3 and -6 fatty acids promote healthy skin and coat
Cons:
Merrick is one of the most expensive dog foods. Some reviewers said that their Vizslas wouldn’t eat Texas Beef or Sweet Potato.
The Farmer’s Dog is the runner-up
Delivered to your doorstepBlended and portioned by nutritionistsConsultants available to help adjust food to dog’s tastes
The growing fresh dog food category is our runner-up in the best dog food for Vizslas. The Farmer’s Dog is a human-grade dog food that has been prepared by veterinarian nutritionists. It’s delivered right to your door.
This makes healthy dog food for Vizslas. The food is delivered directly to your home and already prepared for you. Consults are available to help you adjust the recipes to suit your Vizsla’s needs.
Pros:
Made with fresh ingredientsPortioned so no need to worry about over-feedingDelivered to your home
Cons:
Fresh food can be more expensiveRefrigeration needed
Here are 10 more top-rated dog foods for Vizslas
These Vizsla dog foods are the best for Vizslas and their specific needs.
Fresh/Super Premium: NomNom
Delivered to your home in premium health.
NomNom, a growing number of dog food delivery companies, is more personal than other options. NomNom food can be prepared in-house and they can answer their phones for additional personal service. When you call them, they will answer your phone and connect with you.
NomNom is confident in the health benefits of their premium quality dog food. NomNom will pay up to $40 for your Vizslas’ next diet if you don’t notice the difference after 30 days.
Pros:
Personal service to suit your dog’s specific needsPremium ingredientsHome delivery
Cons:
One of the most expensive options available
Most popular: Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain Free
Grain-free with buffalo as the first ingredientFruits and vegetables provide antioxidantsCarbohydrates from peas and sweet potatoes provide energy
Vizslas love Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain Free Dry Dog Food for good reason. This high-protein, gluten-free dog food contains buffalo as its first ingredient. It will give your dog the muscle support it needs. Prebiotic support is provided by dried chicory root. Natural antioxidants are found in real fruits and vegetables.
This premium, healthy dog food is available online at chewy.com and from other retailers. It can be delivered right to your door. Also, most Vizslas love it!
Pros:
Natural recipe that contains vitamins, antioxidants and prebioticsNo wheat, grain, or artificial colors or preservativesLean buffalo serves as the first ingredient
Cons:
Although Taste of the Wild High Prairie Grain Free received rave reviews from 91 percent of dog owners, some dogs owners have reported that their dogs didn’t like the taste.
American Journey Grain-Free Dry Dog Food is the best value
Premium dog food at a cheaper priceNutritious ingredients include phytonutrients and antioxidants.
American Journey is priced at 10 percent or less than premium dry dog food, making it a great choice for fueling your Vizslas’ adventures. The sweet potato and salmon recipes contain real deboned salmon, which is rich in protein and amino acid.
Sweet potatoes and fiber-rich chickpeas are good for dogs’ energy needs. Omega-3 fatty acid supplements can be found in fruits and vegetables like carrots, dried Kelp, and blueberries. These fatty acids will support healthy eyes and brains as well as shiny coats.
Pros:
Lower price than premium dog foods
Cons:
Can cause upset stomach
American Natural Premium Original Recipe Dry Dog Food – Pea Free
For maximum digestibility, avoid peasQuality ingredientsHigh levels of protein for long-lasting energy
American Natural Premium Original Recipe provides Vizsla with high-quality nutrition that is easy to digest. This dry dog food contains chicken meal, pork meal and fish meal. Carbohydrates come from brown rice and barley.
American Natural is a premium dog food. It provides long-lasting energy and probiotics in a gentle formula that will not upset your Vizsla’s stomach.
Pros:
Digestive aids include probiotics and a formula that is pea-free. Complex carbohydrates provide fiber and long-lasting energy.
Cons:
Some dog owners don’t want their Vizslas to eat chicken meal or similar protein sources. American Natural is considerably more expensive than the other premium dry dog food we reviewed.
Ollie is the best for puppies:
Fresh food delivered directly to your homeBlended and prepared by canine nutritionistsWhole foods that have been minimally processed
There are many reasons why fresh food for your pet is becoming more popular. Fresh food delivered right to your door is easy. You can easily take a portioned pouch from the fridge to make your Vizsla’s meal. You can also order a fresh pouch if you’re introducing a new Vizsla.
Vizsla puppy: why not get the best nutrition for its growth and development?
Ollie delivers healthy nutrition from whole foods such as beef, chicken and lamb, sweet potatoes, carrots, spinach, and blueberries right to your doorstep. It is a good investment to start your puppy off on the right foot.
Pros:
Whole foods that are human-grade promote healthy growth and development. Vizslas and puppies love the flavor. Home delivery is easy and convenient.
Cons:
Ollie, as with all fresh dog food delivery services is more expensive than buying premium dry food. Ollie, however, is only available to subscribers
Victor Senior Healthy Weight Dry Dogfood is the best for seniors
Nutrient-dense and grain-freeGlucosamine and chondroitin help keep joints healthyL-carnitine helps Vizslas convert fat to energy
Vizslas get older and face the same problems as us: a slower metabolism, joint pains and aches. Victor Purpose Senior Dry Dog Food is a nutritionally dense formula that provides your senior Vizsla with the vitamins and macronutrients it requires without adding calories.
Long-term joint health is important for senior Vizslas. L-carnitine helps your pet turn fat into energy, while chondroitin and glucosamine promote long-term joint wellness. It is easy to digest, and doesn’t cause food sensitivities.
Pros:
This mix is rich in protein from high-quality beef, chicken, pork and fish. It’s designed to help senior dogs transform fat into energy. Glucosamine, chondroitin, and other nutrients promote joint health.
Cons:
The price is higher than premium brands of dog food on the market. Some Vizslas didn’t like the taste
For overweight Vizslas, Wellness CORE Grain Free Reduced Fat Dry Dog Food is the best.
Wellness CORE’s original version has 25 percent less fatTurkey flavor Vizslas loveTaurine for heart health
If Vizslas don’t lose weight, they may require a lower-calorie food option. Wellness CORE Grain Free Reduced Fat Dry Dog Food is our recommendation. Wellness CORE’s original formula has 25% less fat. Vizslas love the turkey flavor.
Vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, and Kale provide fiber and vitamins.
Your Vizsla shouldn’t have any allergic reactions to this grain- or gluten-free choice, and taurine is added to support heart health. Your Vizsla should maintain a healthy weight with Wellness CORE and perhaps a few more walks on a leash.
Pros:
All-natural premium ingredientsFormula promotes healthy heart health and healthy weight. Gluten-free and grain-free blends should not cause allergic reactions
Cons:
Some dog owners complained that their dogs did not like Wellness CORE’s Reduced Fat Version.
The Best Dog for Sensitive Stomachs
You can purchase fresh food with or without a subscription.
Some Vizslas may be sensitive to gluten and grains, which can lead to unhappy owners and dogs. For dogs with sensitive stomachs, we recommend A Puppy Above.
A Pup Above is an online option for fresh dog food. You don’t need a subscription to purchase it. This premium dog food is available online. However, automatic delivery does reduce the cost. A Pup Above is a premium dog food that has been praised by many customers as reducing their dogs’ food sensitivities.
Pros:
You can order A Pup Above without a subscription. Perfect for your first time. Made from human-grade whole food without fillers. Reduces or eliminates symptoms related to food sensitivities
Cons:
Fresh dog food can be more costly. It comes in 1-pound patties, and is not portioned
Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Dry Dog Food is the best for Vizslas With Allergies
A limited list of ingredientsLifeSource Bits vitamins support immunity
Some Vizslas are allergic to certain ingredients, making it important that they choose the right dog food for them. You might consider a dog food that contains as few ingredients as possible if your pet is allergic to any one or more of the following:
Blue Buffalo Basics Limited Ingredient Dry Food Dog Food only contains turkey as a protein source for ease of digestion. For energy, pumpkin and potatoes are good sources of carbohydrates. It is gluten-free and contains no soy, dairy or eggs. Blue Buffalo Basics includes LifeSource Bits, which is a vitamin supplement that supports immunity.
Pros:
A limited number of ingredients will keep food sensitivities low.
Cons:
Dog owners have reported that their dogs didn’t enjoy the taste of premium dry dog food.
How to choose the best dog food for your Vizsla
Vizsla owners can be confused by the variety of dog foods on today’s market. This list of top quality foods should help you make an informed decision. These steps can help you make the right choice for your Vizsla.
Talk to your veterinarian
Your veterinarian is as familiar with your Vizsla as you are. Smart diet choices will ensure your Vizsla is healthy. Your veterinarian will also know which foods may help to prevent certain conditions.
Be aware of your weight and how active you are
A Vizsla who is active will require more fuel than a Vizsla who is sedentary and may have a slower metabolism. Consider if your Vizsla is overweight and switching to a food with lower fat and calories if this is the case.
Does your Vizsla Like it?
If your Vizsla refuses to eat the food, even the best dog food, it won’t be able to benefit from it. To test the effectiveness of a new food for Vizslas, you might consider making a smaller order first.
Our 2023 Vizsla Feeding guide Questions
We’ll end this guide on choosing the best Vizsla dog food by answering some commonly asked questions about this breed.
When is it time to transition my Vizsla’s puppy food to adult dog food.
Puppy food is the best because it is easy to digest and has all the nutrients necessary to support healthy growth. Your Vizsla will be 12 months old when it is time for you to transition to adult food.
Your dog’s stomach is not good for sudden changes. You can transition slowly to adult dog food by gradually including adult food in your pet’s diet.
Which dog food is better – dry or fresh?
You may be wondering whether this is something that you should give your Vizsla.
Your Vizsla needs high-quality, natural ingredients. You should also ensure your pet receives the correct amount of calories according to its stage of life and activity level.
Fresh dog food made with whole foods is better quality and will provide your Vizsla the best nutrition.
Fresh food isn’t always possible for every dog owner. It is expensive and will last only two to three days in the fridge. Dry dog food is more durable, easier to take along, and helps keep your dog’s teeth healthy.
It is possible to cook fresh food for your Vizsla. However, be careful not to trigger sensitivities. It can be tedious and time-consuming, but it is worth the effort at the end.
You can also mix fresh food bought online or at a retail location with high-quality dry dog foods to get the best of both.
Is raw food safe for my Vizsla
Pet owners are embracing raw food diets as a new trend. They claim that their pets have smaller stools, healthier coats and more energy. Raw organ meats, muscle meat, raw eggs and whole or ground bone, as well as dog-safe fresh fruits and vegetables, and some dairy such yogurt.
However, veterinarians warn against raw food. As a policy, the American Veterinary Medical Association has declared that raw food should not be given to dogs as they could contain pathogens, and put both animals and people at risk.
Can I add fruits and vegetables to my Vizsla’s diet?
Vegetables are just as good for Vizslas as they are for us. Sweet potatoes, carrots and spinach are some of the best vegetables. Dogs can also safely eat blueberries, blueberries and peaches.
There are certain vegetables and fruits that can cause harm to Vizslas or other canine breeds. These plants can cause reactions that range from mild to life-threatening.
Avocado tastes great on toast but it’s best not to share with your pet. Avocados can cause diarrhea and toxic effects for dogs.
Avoid onions. Red blood cells in dogs can burst if they eat onions or other members of the leek family. Other reactions include nausea, vomiting, stomach pain and diarrhea.
Never feed your dog grapes. Grapes and raisins are toxic for canines and can cause kidney failure.
Conclusion
Vizslas love to spend time with their owners and are affectionate, loyal, and loving pets. They are energetic, enjoy long walks and runs and have beautiful, reddish-colored coats. They are easy to groom.
You’ll have years of friendship and fun as long as your Vizsla is given lots of attention.
Vizsla owners need to take into consideration the unique nutritional and health needs of their pet when choosing the food for them. Proper nutrition can help make certain conditions that your Vizsla is more likely to experience less.
Your Vizsla will be happier and healthier if you choose the best dog food. Your Vizsla will live a longer, happier life if you feed it the best dog food.
You will need to consider many things when looking after your Vizsla. This guide will help you choose the right dog food for your Vizsla. These dog food options will provide healthy and high-quality nutrition for your Vizsla, based on our thorough research.
11 Best Dog Foods For Vizslas in 2023 Pet Review.
