The Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix is an unusual cross between a purebred Hungarian Vizsla and a purebred Australian Shepherd.
This designer dog is certainly a combination of the best of both the Australian Shepherd and the Vizsla. The Vizsla makes a great family pet, as does the Australian Shepherd. They are both great working dogs, and they also have a lot of energy.
However, they are also quite different. These two parent breeds have some excellent traits that, when mixed, make for a loyal, loving, and hardworking pooch.
If you’re interested in getting a Vizsla Australian Shepherd mix, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need to decide, from appearance and temperament, to training, health, and regular care.
Table of Contents
Quick Facts About The Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix
| Breed Type: | Mixed Breed/Crossbreed/Designer Dog/Hybrid (Vizsla and Australian Shepherd) |
| Size: | Medium-sized dog |
| Other Names: | Aussie Vizsla, Australian Vizsla, Vizsla Shepherd |
| Good Guard Dog: | Yes, but with proper training, particularly if they take after the Australian Shepherd parent |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes |
| Average Weight: | 40 to 65 pounds (Keep in mind that individual dogs may fall outside this range) |
| Average Height: | 18 to 26 inches tall (Keep in mind that individual dogs may fall outside this range) |
| Lifespan: | 12 to 15 years |
| Apartment Living: | No, this dog is ideal for large homes with a secure, fenced-in yard |
| Ideal for: | Active owners, Active families with older children, Anyone searching for a watchdog, Experienced Owners, Spacious homes, People who lead an active lifestyle |
| Coat: | May inherit the Vizsla’s short coat or the long, wavy double coat of the Australian Shepherd |
| Coat colors: | White, brown, black and white, brown, chocolate, and golden with or without patterns |
| Suitable for first time owners: | No, This dog is best suited to active and experienced dog owners |
| Training: | Easy to train |
| Hypoallergenic: | No, not suitable for people with allergies |
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming Needs: | Brush them at least once a week (brush them more often during the shedding season) |
| Energy Levels: | High |
| Exercise Needs: | At least 90 minutes of physical and mental exercise every day is required to prevent destructive behaviors |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | Must not be left alone for longer than 4 to 6 hours |
| Feeding and Diet: | 2 to 3 cups of high quality dog food divided into 2 or 3 meals. Of course, this amount varies depending on the dog’s age, size, and activity level |
| Maintenance: | When it comes to grooming they are low to moderate maintenance dogs. However they have incredibly high levels of energy, requiring active training and exercise |
| Possible Health Issues: | Hip Dysplasia, Elbow Dysplasia, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), Epilepsy, Collie Eye Anomaly, Allergies, Autoimmune Diseases, Hypothyroidism, Cancer |
| Temperament: | Energetic, Intelligent, Affectionate, Alert, Loyal, Loving, Playful, Social, Responsive, Active |
| Cat Friendly: | Yes, with the right training and socialization, vizslas can be good with cats |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes, but with proper training and timely socialization |
| Kid Friendly: | Yes, They make great companions and playmates for older, active children (They do need to be watched around smaller kids) |
| Barking Tendencies: | These dogs can bark a lot, especially when not given enough attention or exercise |
| Prey Drive: | High |
| Price: | $1000 – $3000 USD, depending on the breeder |
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What is an Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix Called?
The Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix is also called the Australian Vizsla, Aussie Vizsla, or the Vizsla Shepherd.
The Origin and History of the Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix
The history of the Aussie Vizsla Mix is not clear since this designer dog was developed recently.
To understand the origin and history of this mixed breed, we need to study the history of both parent breeds.
The Origin of the Vizsla Breed
The Vizsla breed traces its roots in 9th century Hungary. They were once called the Hungarian Point and they were developed to be pointers and retrievers.
Often working alongside their human masters as hunters, the breed is known for its tracking and scenting abilities. The breed participated in both world wars and was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale in 1936.
The breed made its way to America after the Second World War and was officially recognized by the AKC in 1960.
The Origin of the Australian Shepherd
Despite its name, the Australian Shepherd didn’t originate from Australia. The breed’s ancestors emerged from the Basque Country within present-day Spain.
However, the Australian Shepherd was developed on the west coast by American settlers. In the 19th century, the breed was commonly used to herd the sheep owned by the settlers.
So, what can you expect from a Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix? Let’s find out below.
What Does an Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix Look Like?
The Aussie Vizsla inherits the best physical characteristics from both parents. The Vizsla and Australian Shepherd Mix has a muscular, well-proportioned body, which gives this mix an athletic physique.
It has a stunning musculature that gives it great strength. This mix also has a large head, large ears, and a broad chest.
Generally, these mixes have a unique and stunning appearance that blends the looks of both parent breeds.
How Big Does an Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix Get?
The Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix size can vary significantly depending on the traits and genetics inherited by each puppy.
Males are generally bigger than females.
Male Vizslas stand between 22 and 26 inches tall and weigh around 55 to 60 pounds. On the other hand, females stand 21 to 24 inches tall and weigh about 45 to 55 pounds.
Australian Shepherds are slightly bigger than Vizslas. Male Aussies have an average height of about 20 to 23 inches and weigh about 50 to 65 pounds. Females, on the other hand, have an average height of 18 to 21 inches and weigh about 40 to 55 pounds.
On average, The Aussie Vizsla will grow to be a medium sized pup weighing between 40 and 65 pounds and standing between 18 and 26 inches tall.
Coat and Coat Colors
The Aussie Vizsla Mix dog can have any combination of the short and smooth coat of the Vizsla and the medium-length double coat of the Australian Shepherd.
Double-coated Aussie Vizsla Mixes have a soft undercoat and a weather-resistant outer coat. This allows them to adapt well to various climates, including both warm and cold weather conditions.
This mix comes in coat colors like white, brown, black and white, brown, chocolate, and golden. Some may also have merle or speckled patterns.
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Vizsla Australian Shepherd mix Temperament, Behavior, and Personality Traits
The Australian Shepherd x Vizsla temperament and personality traits can vary significantly depending on each pup’s generatics and living conditions. Both parents have unique traits that may contribute to the mix’s behavioral traits.
Aussies are intelligent, loyal, and energetic dogs. They are also eager to please and highly trainable.
Vizslas are gentle, affectionate, and eager to please. They are also loyal dogs that make great family pets.
An Australian Shepherd mixed with Vizsla will inherit these traits. So you can expect this mixed breed to be very intelligent and highly trainable. They are also very likely to be loving and loyal to their owners.
Being from two working dogs, you can also expect them to have high energy levels, so regular exercise and on-going training are a must. With their energy and high prey drive, they need mental stimulation and consistent training to develop into well-behaved family companions.
Are Australian Shepherd Vizslas Good With Kids?
Yes! The Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix dog gets along well with children if well trained and socialized from a young age. However, it’s important to teach small kids how to play and interact with your pup.
Are Australian Shepherd Vizslas Good with Other Dogs?
If well trained and socialized, the Aussie Vizsla can get along well with other canines and animals in the family.
Are Vizsla Australian Shepherd mixes Good with Cats and Other Pets?
If you socialize your Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix with cats and other pets in the household, chances are they will get along well with each other. However, the Vizsla parent has a strong prey drive and may chase smaller pets that he considers as prey. The most important thing is to start socializing your pets as early as possible to avoid problems down the road.
Are Australian Shepherd Vizslas Good For First-Time Owners?
This mix is not ideal for sedentary or first time owners. They are large, intelligent dogs that can become dominant if they are not wel trained, exercised, and mentally stimulated.
Do Australian Shepherd Vizsla Dogs Do Well In Apartments?
No. Australian Shepherd Vizsla Dogs are not suitable for apartment living or small-space living. Their high energy levels can make them destructive.
If you live in an apartment or a small house and can’t find enough time to take your dog out for runs or walks, then you should probably consider another breed.
Exercise Requirements
The Australian Shepherd and Vizsla Mix is an energetic dog that requires enough exercise and mental stimulation to stay calm, happy and healthy.
With both parent breeds’ high energy levels, this hybrid dog has boundless energy and enthusiasm. It means your Vizsla Aussie Mix will require at least 90 minutes of exercise daily.
Recommended physical activities include long walks, jogs, runs, and playtime in a secure, fenced yard.
Besides their high energy levels, these pups are also very intelligent and have a strong prey drive. They have the natural desire to chase after other pets and animals, so it’s important to offer mental stimulation to help prevent unwanted behaviors.
Engaging them in obedience training, agility training, and playtime with interactive dog toys will help meet their mental stimulation needs.
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Training
No matter the age of your Australian Shepherd Vizsla puppy, it’s crucial to start training them right away. They are smart and energetic dogs who will benefit from proper training and socialization.
It’s also a good idea to choose a dedicated space for training your puppy, both indoors and outdoors. A dog crate like the MidWest Folding Crate for Large dogs is a great option for indoor training sessions. Also, make sure the outdoor space is fenced to prevent them from escaping.
Limiting the space in which your puppy can move around is important for successful housetraining.
All dogs require their own private space and getting them the Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed will help them own that space as part of their training.
You also need a few other essential items including a leash and a collar or harness.
Another important thing is to establish a daily routine. These include consistent bedtimes, meal times, playtimes, puppy exercises, socialization activities, alone times, training times, recall training, and grooming.
For the first few days, focus on the basics. Teach your dog basic commands like their name, ‘Sit’, ‘Stay’, ‘Go potty’, ‘Down’, and “Come’.
Also, remember to reward good behavior. As with all dogs, the best way to train your Vizsla Aussie Mix is with positive reinforcements. Find out what encourages your dog. Giving them treats, praising them, patting them on the back, and giving them toys are important parts of dog training.
Shedding Level
So do Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mixes shed a lot?
The Aussie Vizsla Mix sheds moderately, so regular brushing is important to minimize the shedding.
Grooming and Maintenance
The grooming requirements of this designer dog will vary depending on each dog’s coat type. Regular brushing is necessary to remove dead hair and prevent matting.
It is also important to bathe them every few weeks to keep their coat clean. You can also use deodorizing wipes for dogs to help maintain their coat’s cleanliness and keep them more comfortable.
Regularly check and clean their ears and brush their teeth to prevent dental issues. Lastly, trim their nails to a decent length to prevent injury or discomfort.
Feeding and Diet
As with all dogs, the Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix requires a high quality dog food that is ideal for the individual dog’s age, size, and activity level. If in doubt, consult your vet for dietary recommendations.
It’s important to provide premium quality dog food in the recommended amounts to prevent obesity. This mix will require about 2 to 3 cups of food each day.
To prevent hip dysplasia and other joint issues, be sure to supplement your dog’s diet with probiotics and wild Alaskan salmon oil. These dietary supplements contain omega acids that promote joint and skin health.
Finally, be sure your mix has access to fresh water at all times.
Common Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix Health Issues
The Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix has a lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. Like both parent breeds, this mix is prone to some health issues potential owners should familiarize themselves with.
These include hip dysplasia, epilepsy, allergies, and eye problems.
Regular exercise, proper nutrition, and vet check-ups can help ensure their overall health and wellbeing.
Reputable breeders usually perform health screenings and produce documents to help potential owners make knowledgeable decisions about their puppy’s health.
In addition, it’s important for potential owners to provide a caring and loving environment to ensure a happier and healthier dog.
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How Much is an Australian Shepherd and Vizsla Mix?
The Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix varies significantly depending on the breeder and location.
Generally, expect to pay about $1000 to $3000 for a healthy and quality Aussie Vizsla Mix puppy from a responsible breeder.
Finding Healthy Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix Puppies for Sale or Adoption
As with many mixed breeds, finding a Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix puppy for sale can be a challenging task.
Here are a few tips to help you narrow down your options for a Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix for sale.
1. Go online
Start by searching online for Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix puppies for sale in your local area or across the country.
On Petfinder, for example, you can filter the search results by categories like breed or city/state, allowing you to pin down your preferred pet.
2. Consult your network
If you know someone who owns a Vizsla Aussie Mix dog, ask them to refer you to the breeder. Although they may refer you to the breeder, it is extremely important to do your research to ensure you’re working with a reputable breeder.
3. Meet both parents
Try and meet both parents, as doing so will give you a good idea of the probable size, temperament, and characteristics your puppy will most likely inherit.
4. Consider a DNA Test
A good way to tell for sure the breeds used to produce your pup is to use a DNA test kit.
5. Check with your local shelter or rescue organization
Adoption is a wonderful way to add a dog to your family. Contact your local shelter or rescue organization and ask if they have any Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mixes available for adoption. Just make sure to get the full history of the dog before making the final decision to ensure your new dog is a good match for you and your family.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix a Good Family Dog?
If you’re looking for a good family companion, you can’t go wrong with the Vizsla Aussie Mix. Their loyal, friendly, and loving nature makes them great for families. They are also highly affectionate, so they will quickly integrate into the family.
Both parents also love children and are calm and patient with them. However, personalities can vary from dog to dog. Proper training and socialization are important parts of creating the perfect family companion dog.
Are Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix Dogs High Maintenance?
While the Australian Shepherd parent requires regular brushing and an occasional bath to keep their coat in tip-top condition, the Vizsla has low grooming requirements. This means that the maintenance needs of this designer dog will vary based on its coat.
This mixed breed may inherit the dense coat of the Australian Shepherd or the short, smooth coat of the Vizsla.
When it comes to physical activities, both parents have high energy levels and need plenty of exercise daily. So the Vizsla Aussie Mix is a moderate to high-maintenance dog that is unsuitable for first time dog owners.
Can Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
No. This mixed breed enjoys working closely with their owners, so these dogs don’t like being left alone for extended periods of time. They do best in homes where someone is always available to offer them human companionship.
How Long Can an Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix be Left Alone?
Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mixes thrive on human companionship, so you should not leave them alone for longer than 4 to 6 hours.
Are Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mixes Hypoallergenic?
No. Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mixes shed moderately and are, therefore, not hypoallergenic.
How Long Do Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mixes Live?
The typical lifespan of a Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix is about 12 to 15 years.
Are Australian Shepherd Vizslas Lazy?
No. Australian Shepherd Vizslas can be said to be exercise-intensive. That means that they need a lot of hikes, walks, and other exercises to remain calm, content, and healthy.
Do Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mixes Bark A Lot?
Yes. The Australian Vizsla can be very vocal. Compared to many other mixed breeds, the Australian Vizsla barks frequently just like both parent breeds.
Are Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mixes Protective?
Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mixes are loyal dogs that can be highly protective of their families and territory.
Are Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mixes Hard to Train?
No. Their loyalty and intelligence make them easy to train.
Do Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mixes Like To Cuddle?
Yes, Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mixes do love cuddling. Most Vizsla Aussie mixes are very affectionate and enjoy snuggling with their owners.
Are Australian Shepherd Vizslas Aggressive?
While this mix is not known to be aggressive, it varies from one dog to another. As with any other breed, Vizsla Australian Shepherds may dislike other dogs or people and might react accordingly.
Are Vizsla Australian Shepherd Dogs Smart?
Yes! Vizsla Australian Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and easy to train.
Can Vizsla Australian Shepherds Be Off Leash?
Both Vizslas and Australian Shepherds are good at off-leash activities, and the Vizsla Australian Shepherd Mix is no different. You can easily train your Vizsla Aussie Mix for off-leash work.
What Are Some Negatives About Vizsla Australian Shepherds?
- They have a lot of energy
- They need a lot of mental stimulation
- They don’t tolerate being left alone for long (they are prone to separation anxiety)
- They need lots of early socialization
- They shed fur
- They need a lot of space to play or run around
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Is an Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix Right For You?
The Australian Shepherd Vizsla Mix is an energetic designer dog that requires consistent training, regular exercise, and lots of mental stimulation. If you can meet these needs, then this mix can develop into a gentle and well-mannered companion dog for you.
Other Australian Shepherd Mixes
Love Australian Shepherds but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular Australian Shepherd mix breed dogs.
1. Australian Shepherd Samoyed Mix
2. Australian Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix
3. Australian Shepherd Doberman Mix
4. Australian Shepherd Beagle Mix
5. Australian Shepherd Rottweiler Mix
6. Australian Shepherd Great Pyrenees Mix
7. Australian Shepherd Border Collie Mix
8. Australian Shepherd Boxer Mix
9. Australian Shepherd Dachshund Mix
10. Australian Shepherd Cocker Spaniel Mix
11. Australian Shepherd Husky Mix
12. Australian Shepherd Rat Terrier Mix
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