Vizsla Stud Dog: Health Testing, Epilepsy Awareness, and What to Look For

The Vizsla is Hungary's national dog — elegant, lean, covered in a distinctive golden rust coat, and one of the most affectionate sporting breeds. Sometimes called Velcro dogs for their desire to remain in constant contact with their owners.

Health Testing Requirements

OFA Hip Evaluation — Good or Excellent

Hip dysplasia is one of the most common conditions. OFA at 24 months, Good or Excellent, is non-negotiable.

CAER Eye Examination — Annual

Hereditary eye conditions including PRA and cataracts occur. Annual CAER exam recommended.

Cardiac Evaluation — OFA

Congenital cardiac conditions occur. OFA cardiac evaluation recommended.

Thyroid Testing — OFA Thyroid Panel

Autoimmune thyroiditis is a significant concern in Vizslas. Annual OFA thyroid panel recommended for all breeding dogs.

Hyperuricosuria (HUU) — DNA Test

Vizslas have an elevated rate of uric acid stone formation. DNA testing available. Clear studs reduce stone disease risk in offspring.

Epilepsy — Family History Assessment (Critical)

Idiopathic epilepsy is a significant heritable condition in Vizslas. There is currently no widely available DNA test. Ask specifically about the stud's family history — seizures in parents, siblings, or previous offspring. Lines with documented epilepsy should be avoided.

The Wirehaired Vizsla

The Wirehaired Vizsla is a separate AKC breed. If you are looking for a Smooth Vizsla stud, confirm the dog is a Smooth (shorthaired) Vizsla — they are registered separately.

Vizsla Color

The Vizsla comes in one color: golden rust. All shades within this range are acceptable. Extensive white markings or black pigment indicate the dog is not breed-standard.

Hunting and Field Ability

Many serious Vizsla breeders value field titles: AKC Hunting Test titles (JH, SH, MH), NAVHDA titles, and AKC Field Trial Champion.

What Does a Vizsla Stud Fee Cost?

Vizsla stud fees in 2026 typically range from $800 to $3,000 depending on full health panel (hips, thyroid especially important), field/hunting titles, family history free of epilepsy, and HUU DNA status.

Questions to Ask Before Booking

• Can I see OFA hip, cardiac, thyroid, HUU DNA, and CAER eye exam?
• Does the stud or any close relatives have history of epilepsy?
• Does he have field trial or hunting titles?
• Is he a Smooth Vizsla (not Wirehaired)?
• Is he AKC registered?
• Will you provide a written stud contract?