Are you thinking about adopting a Vizsla and wondering how to manage his shedding? The medium-sized sporting dog is relatively low-maintenance in terms of dog grooming. However, they are not hypoallergenic dogs and still shed a significant amount. This article will cover everything you need to know about Vizsla shedding and how to properly groom this breed.

Vizsla Appearance

Vizslas are short-coated canines with a distinguished appearance. They have a lean, muscular physique with a similar look to Weimaraners and Redbone Coonhounds. The tail of a Vizsla is typically docked per American breeding standards. Since their tails are usually docked when the puppies are less than three days old, it can result in some variation in tail length among the breed. They have dark eyes and their noses are reddish in color, which blends in with their coat appearance.

Vizsla Coat

The distinct coat of a Vizsla is usually described as copper, russet gold, or dark sandy gold. Vizslas do not vary in color aside from the possibility of slight saddle-shaped marks along their back.

The breed’s coat is short, smooth, and dense. Since Vizslas don’t have an undercoat, they are not suited for being outdoors for extended periods of time.

Vizsla Shedding

Vizslas shed a normal amount. However, since their hair is so short, it is not as visible on furniture and clothing as the hair of some other breeds.

They start to shed their lighter-colored winter coats in the spring which will typically reveal a richer color during the summer. Daily brushing will help move the process along.

Grooming a Vizsla

Vizslas are self-cleaning dogs that don’t need to be bathed very often and they have little or no “dog smell” that is detectable by humans. Although their coats are considered to be low-maintenance, this short-haired breed does require some grooming.

Brushing a Vizsla

Vizslas are not heavy shedders, but they will lose a significant amount of hair each year. To decrease the amount of shedding, you can regularly brush your Vizsla with a soft brush. This will remove loose hair and keep his coat growing in the same direction. Loose hairs can also be removed by running a damp cloth over your dog’s coat. The majority of a Vizsla’s coat cannot be cut, but they have prominent eyebrows and beards which can be combed or trimmed to prevent tangling.

Bathing a Vizsla

Since Vizslas are a smooth-coated breed, they only need baths about once every three months. However, if a Vizsla has been on a hunting trip or playing outside in the mud, a bath may be necessary.

When bathing your dog, mild soap or shampoo should be used. This is a great time to check your pup’s coat for any cuts, scratches, thorns, fleas or other skin conditions.

Before giving your Vizsla a bath, brush out his coat to remove any loose hair or matting. Next, place a rubber mat in the bathtub so he doesn’t slip and then fill the tub with four to five inches of lukewarm water.

Once your dog is in the tub, use a spray hose, pitcher, or plastic cup to wet his coat. Shampoo should be gently massaged into your Vizsla’s coat and rinsed thoroughly. When rinsing, start with the head to prevent soap from dripping into your pup’s eyes. Use a towel to gently dry your Vizsla. After a bath, your dog’s coat should smell fresh and have no loose hair.

A Groomed Vizsla is a Healthy Vizsla

Brushing your Vizsla on a regular basis will not only prevent dog hair from getting all over your home, it will also make your pet feel good and contribute to his overall health. Since Vizslas have such short, smooth coats, they are relatively easy to maintain. A regular schedule of brushing will keep your dog healthy and happy and it’s also a great opportunity to bond with your pet!