The Vizsla German Shepherd Mix is a cross between a Vizsla and a German Shepherd. This interesting Mix is characterized by a muscular body with high energy levels.
The Vizsla German Shepherd Mix is a charming and affectionate family pet. They are gentle, friendly, and intelligent.
With all the intelligence, charisma, work ethic, and cuteness, it’s no surprise that the German Shepherd Vizsla Mix is becoming popular around the world. As a cross between two hardworking dogs, this mix offers desirable qualities.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Vizsla German Shepherd Mix.
Table of Contents
Some Quick Facts About The Vizsla German Shepherd Mix
| Breed Type: | Crossbreed/Mixed Breed/Designer Dog/Hybrid Dog |
| Size: | Medium to Large-Sized Dog |
| Good Guard Dog: | Yes, only with proper training and especially if they take after the GSD parent |
| Good Watch Dog: | Yes |
| Average Weight: | 40 to 50 Pounds |
| Average Height: | 21 to 26 Inches |
| Lifespan: | About 12 to 15 Years on Average |
| Apartment Living: | No, they are best suited to a large home with a fenced-in yard |
| Ideal for: | Active Individuals, Active Families With Children Who Have Enough Time to Exercise & Train Them, Those Looking for a Watchdog/Guard Dog, Experienced dog Owners, For Those Who Enjoy Outdoor Activities, Spacious Homes |
| Coat: | Can inherit the short coat of the Vizsla or the dense coat of the GSD |
| Coat colors: | Black, Tan, and Gold-Oxide with Gray and Yellowish Markings |
| Suitable for first time owners: | No, they are best suited to experienced or active owners who love the outdoors |
| Trainability: | Relatively Easy to Train |
| Hypoallergenic: | No |
| Shedding: | Moderate to Heavy |
| Grooming Needs: | It depends, if he takes after the Vizsla parent bushing once or twice a week is enough, otherwise brush him 3 to 4 times per week |
| Energy Levels: | High |
| Exercise Needs: | At least 90 minutes of exercise every day is required |
| Tolerance to being left alone: | Should not be left alone for more than 5 hours |
| Feeding and Diet: | 3 to 4 cups of high quality dog food each day, divided into two or three meals |
| Maintenance: | Moderate to High |
| Possible Health Issues: | Hip and Elbow dysplasia, Epilepsy, Thyroid Problems, Heart Conditions, Eye Issues, and Cancer, among others |
| Temperament: | Loyal, Intelligent, Active, Energetic, Loving, Gentle, Charming, Friendly, and Affectionate |
| Cat Friendly: | Yes, Especially If Raised Together (Early Socialization Is Must) |
| Dog Friendly: | Yes, (Early Socialization Is Required) |
| Kid Friendly: | Yes, (Early Socialization Is Required) (They are especially great companions for older, energetic kids) |
| Barking Tendencies: | Yes, (can be controlled by proper training) |
| Price: | Around $1000 |
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The Origin of the Vizsla German Shepherd Mix
Not much information is available about when and where the first Vizsla German Shepherd Mix was developed.
However, there’s a lot of information about both parent breeds.
By studying the Vizsla and the German Shepherd, you can get a good idea of what to expect from the German Shepherd and Vizsla Mix.
Vizsla History
The Hungarian word ‘Vizsla’ means ‘Pointer’. The breed originated from Hungary and was developed for hunting.
This Hungarian dog has a very long history. They were originally used for hunting falcons.
It was also the breed of choice for the Hungarian royalty. During the First and Second World Wars, their numbers dropped and the breed almost became extinct.
A few of these dogs were brought to the United States where the breed was rescued.
Besides being a popular family dog, the Vizsla is also used for search and rescue missions.
German Shepherd History
According to the American Kennel Club, the German Shepherd is the creation of Capt. Max Von Stephanitz. He held his dogs in high regard and decided to create a better breed from the many dogs available to him at the time.
During the First World War, the German Shepherd was used as a rescue dog. They served as messenger dogs, guard dogs, and puppy carriers for German soldiers. During the Second World War, these intelligent dogs played similar roles.
These military canines were preferred because of these intelligence and endurance.
The General Appearance of a Vizsla German Shepherd Mix
So, what does a Vizsla German Shepherd Mix look like?
A cross between a German Shepherd and a Vizsla will most likely be a medium to large-sized dog. This is because both parents are medium to large dogs.
The Vizsla and German Shepherd Mix will be a strong dog with a muscular body, long limbs, a broad chest, large ears, a straight tail, and a large head.
How Big Will A Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Get?
German Shepherds are generally larger than Vizslas. GSDs weigh about 30 pounds more than Vizslas. Therefore, this mix will be a medium or a large-sized dog.
The size, height, and weight of a full grown Vizsla German Shepherd Mix will vary depending on the dominant characteristics of the parent dogs as well as their age, gender, and development.
The Vizsla German Shepherd dog will be a bit smaller than a German Shepherd weighing around 40 to 50 pounds. Their height lies somewhere between 21 and 26 inches on average.
Coat and Coat Colors
The coat of a German Shepherd and Vizsla Mix dog will also depend on the prominent characteristics inherited from each parent. This mix can inherit the short coat of the Vizsla or the dense coat of the GSD.
Coat colors can include black, tan, and gold-oxide with gray and yellowish markings.
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Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Temperament & Personality
The German Shepherd is found as a working dog, but also makes a great family pet. The GSD is a very intelligent and hardworking dog. The owner should start training their GSD early.
Vizslas are hunting companions who also make excellent family dogs.
Therefore, a German Shepherd Vizsla Mix will be an intelligent dog who needs a job to do to remain happy. This mix can be friendly like the Vizsla or as reserved as the GSD.
Do Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes Make Good Guard Dogs?
Yes. These dogs are great watchdogs and guard dogs. They are protective of their family and territory especially if they take after the German Shepherd parent,
Are Vizsla German Shepherds Good with Cats and Other Pets?
Yes, the Vizsla German Shepherd is tolerant of cats and other pets in the home. With proper socialization, these dogs can do well with other animals, as well.
Are Vizsla German Shepherds Good With Kids?
Yes, this mix is great with children. They are playful and loving towards kids.
Are Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes Good with Other Dogs?
If properly trained and socialized, this mix can get along well with other dogs and animals.
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Are Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes Good for First Time Owners?
This mix is best suited to experienced or active owners who love the outdoors.
Do Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Dogs Do Well In Apartments?
Due to their size, and energy levels, this breed is not suited to apartment living. This mix is ideal for spacious homes with enough room or a fenced yard for the dog to play and burn off any excess energy.
Exercise Needs
The Vizsla German Shepherd Mix is a very active dog who requires a lot of exercise. They enjoy running and getting mental stimulation because of their intelligence. This mix is best suited to active owners or families who can take them out for running, playing, swimming or hiking.
Although they enjoy joining their families in the evenings, they need 90 to 120 minutes of physical exercise each day to remain happy and strong.
It’s also a good idea to give your Vizsla German Shepherd Mix a variety of interactive dog toys to help with mental stimulation.
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Training Your Vizsla German Shepherd Mix
It’s imperative to start training your Vizsla German Shepherd Mix puppy early.
Both parent breeds are smart and easy to train.
One important thing to keep in mind is that their Vizsla parent could make this mix a bit stubborn, so early housetraining is recommended.
Use lots of positive reinforcements to encourage your dog to learn new tricks or commands.
It’s essential to socialize your puppy to make him comfortable and confident in different situations.
Grooming Needs
While the Vizsla is low–maintenance, the German Shepherd’s coat requires more grooming.
Therefore, the maintenance of the Vizsla German Shepherd Mix will vary depending on the dog’s physical features, especially the coat. If he inherits the Vizsla’s fur, you need to brush it once or twice a week. If he inherits the dense coat of the GSD, brushing should be done three to four times per week. This is particularly important during the shedding season.
Bathing should be done when necessary since this mix does not get dirty easily. Otherwise, you should clean their coat every day using the best deodorizing wipes for dogs.
Do Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Shed A Lot?
The Vizsla German Shepherd Mix sheds more frequently than a Vizsla, so he is not ideal for allergy sufferers.
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Feeding and Diet
Being an energetic and active dog, the Vizsla German Shepherd will need a well-balanced diet to stay happy and healthy.
It’s vital to provide high quality dog food in reasonable amounts to prevent him from becoming overweight. This mix will need around three to four cups of dog food daily.
To prevent joint issues, make sure to supplement their diet with wild Alaskan oil and probiotics. These supplements contain essential omega acids that are important for skin and joint heath.
Lastly, make sure your mix gets enough fresh water every day to ensure proper hydration.
Lifespan
The Vizsla German Shepherd Mix has an average life expectancy of about 12 to 15 years. The lifespan will vary depending on nutrition, care, and the quality of life.
Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Health Issues
The Vizsla and German Shepherd Mix is a healthy canine. However, they are prone to hip dysplasia, epilepsy, thyroid problems, and eye issues. Cancer is also a common health issue among this mix.
Hip dysplasia is a common condition among the parent breeds, so you should check to ensure the parent dogs did not suffer from joint problems.
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Rescuing a Vizsla German Shepherd Mix
If you want a trained dog, then you should consider rescuing an older dog. This is a great way to save a dog and give them a second chance at life.
A change in a dog owner’s life circumstances may lead to the dog going to a rescue center or animal shelter.
However, some dogs may end up in a shelter because of certain problems. These include behavioral issues and health problems that the owners may be unable to deal with.
Be sure to learn more about the history of the pup before taking him home.
Also, make sure you have the best living conditions to give your dog the care and attention he deserves.
Finding a Vizsla German Shepherd Mix for Sale
Designer dogs are becoming more and more popular.
Mixing different breeds is important for the health of dogs, but it can also be a way for wicked individuals to make money by mass producing Vizsla German Shepherd Mix puppies for sale.
If you want a Vizsla German Shepherd Mix puppy, avoid getting one from a pet store or puppy mill. Sadly, many designer dogs are bred in unethical puppy farms. These puppies are kept in poor conditions, sometimes with injuries and health problems.
To ensure you get a healthy puppy, make sure top buy your pup from a reputable breeder. Visit Vizsla German Shepherd Mix breeders and meet the parent dogs. This is because a hybrid dog’s health and behavior may be hard to predict.
Spend some time with the mother dog to ensure the pup is right for you.
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How Much Does A Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Cost?
A Vizsla German Shepherd Mix is less expensive than many other mixed breed dogs because they are not so popular. The Vizsla German Shepherd Mix price is around $1000.
But you also need to consider the cost of dog food, dog treats, and essential dog products like the MidWest Folding Crate for Large dogs and the Furhaven Orthopedic Dog Bed to give your new furry friend a comfortable and secure place to rest or sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is A Vizsla German Shepherd Mix A Good Family Dog?
Yes, this mix can be an excellent family pet. Just make sure you have enough time to train, socialize, and exercise your dog. These intelligent canines will require mental stimulation, care, and attention, especially during their younger years.
Are Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Dogs High Maintenance?
While the Vizsla parent has low-grooming needs, the German Shepherd requires more grooming. That means that the grooming needs of this mix will vary depending on the physical characteristics like the coat. This mix may inherit the short coat of the Vizsla parent or the dense coat of the German Shepherd.
When it comes to exercise needs both parent breeds are known for their high energy levels and require a lot of exercise. So the Viszla Germen Shepherd mixes are high-maintenance dogs and are not suitable for new dog owners.
Can Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
No. These dogs don’t tolerate being left alone for prolonged periods and should be kept in homes where someone is always at home. Just like the Vizsla parent, this hybrid can develop separation anxiety. They need the company of his family to avoid feeling bored or stressed, which could affect his health.
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How Long Can A Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Be Left Alone?
Most Vizsla German Shepherd Mixed breed dogs will only tolerate being left alone for around four to five hours.
Can Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Dogs Be Left Alone?
No. The German Shepherd Vizsla Mix should not be left alone for longer than five hours. These dogs are friendly and social, so they can suffer from separation anxiety and depression if they are always left alone.
Are Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes Hypoallergenic?
No. The Vizsla German Shepherd Mix is not hypoallergenic. They shed frequently just like the German Shepherd.
How Long Do Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes Live?
This mix can live up to 15 years with proper nutrition, care, and attention.
Do Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes Bark A Lot?
Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes are alert and protective of their owners and family. They always alert their owners to any unusual activity by barking. Training and socialization can help prevent excessive barking.
Is A Vizsla German Shepherd Mix Right For You?
These pups can make fantastic family dogs. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:
- They have tons of energy, so you need a lot of time to exercise them.
- Although these mixes are intelligent and eager to please, housetraining will require consistency and patience.
- If your mix takes after the Vizsla, he could be sensitive and clingy. They need time, love, and socialization.
Are Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes Protective?
Yes, the German Shepherd Vizsla Mix is very protective of their families and property. They will alert their owners to any threat by growling or barking. This makes them good watchdogs.
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Are Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes Hard to Train?
No, the vizsla German Shepherd Mix is easy to train. They learn fast and respond best to positive reinforcement methods.
Do Vizsla German Shepherd Mixes Like To Cuddle?
Yes. If well exercised, your mix will enjoy cuddling near you. These dogs are affectionate and loyal to their owners.
Are Vizsla German Shepherds Aggressive?
No. Don’t be deceived by certain dogs that are aggressive; the German Shepherd and Vizsla Mix is not aggressive. These are loyal, loving, and affectionate dogs that make excellent companions for families with children and other pets.
What Are Some Negatives About Vizsla German Shepherds?
- This mix matures slowly and training requires patience.
- They shed fur.
- They are highly energetic and will require plenty of exercise every day.
Conclusion
The Vizsla German Shepherd Mix is a good combination that inherits the best traits from each parent dog. They are very intelligent, so they need to be kept active, both mentally and physically.
The personality traits and physical characteristics of this Mix will depend on the prominent parent gene. Therefore, you should be ready for a variety of scenarios.
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Other German Shepherd Mixes
Love German Shepherds but not sure this particular pup is for you? Check out America’s most popular German Shepherd mix breed dogs.
1. German Shepherd Coonhound Mix
2. German Shepherd Shiba Inu Mix
3. German Shepherd Mastiff Mix
4. German Shepherd Norwegian Elkhound Mix
6. German Shepherd Catahoula Mix
9. German Shepherd Greyhound Mix
10. German Shepherd Great Pyrenees Mix
11. German Shepherd Samoyed Mix
13. German Shepherd Boston Terrier Mix
14. German Shepherd Great Dane Mix
15. German Shepherd Pitbull Mix
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