Vizsla Health Testing Requirements for Stud Dogs

Vizslas are affectionate, energetic sporting dogs from Hungary. They are generally healthy but carry elevated epilepsy rates and specific orthopedic concerns requiring evaluation before breeding.

The Vizsla Club of America (VCA) participates in the OFA CHIC program.

CHIC Requirements for Vizslas

• OFA Hip Evaluation
• OFA Elbow Evaluation
• OFA Eye Examination (CAER)
• DNA test for Degenerative Myelopathy (DM/SOD1)

Hip and Elbow Evaluation

Hip dysplasia occurs in Vizslas; OFA Good or Excellent is the target. Elbow dysplasia also occurs; OFA Normal elbows are required. Both evaluations should be completed at 24 months minimum.

Epilepsy

Vizslas have significantly elevated epilepsy rates compared to most breeds. The genetic basis is complex; no single gene test covers all epilepsy in Vizslas. Selecting from pedigrees with no or low seizure history is the practical management approach. Dogs with idiopathic epilepsy should generally not be used in breeding programs.

Cardiac Evaluation

Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia (TVD) and other congenital cardiac conditions occur in Vizslas. OFA cardiac evaluation is recommended.

Degenerative Myelopathy

DM testing and avoidance of Carrier × Carrier pairings is recommended.

Cancer

Vizslas have elevated cancer rates, particularly hemangiosarcoma and mast cell tumors. No genetic test; pedigree longevity data is the available signal.

Summary

A responsible Vizsla stud dog should have: OFA Good/Excellent hips, OFA Normal elbows, OFA CAER eye exam, DM DNA testing, and cardiac evaluation. Epilepsy history in the pedigree is an important and often overlooked selection criterion — ask breeders specifically about seizure history in parents and grandparents.