What Is A Vizsla?
The Vizsla is a strong, red coated dog breed that is super loyal. They are friendly and loving companions. They enjoy going for jogging or hunting with their owners. The signature appearance includes a golden rust coat, long ears and lean body. Vizslas are very good at different sports and activities. They make a great bond with their owners and hate to be left alone at home.
Vizslas are also talkative breeds, often making different noises or moaning to share their feelings. They are smart and energetic dogs that need a lot of exercise.
How Long Do Vizslas Live?
Vizslas are medium-sized dogs that have an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. The Vizsla’s lifespan depends upon different factors including genetics, nutrition and health care. Vizslas are healthy and strong dogs but many health problems can affect life expectancy.
Common Health Problems That Reduce Vizsla Lifespan
There are many health problems that reduce your Vizsla’s lifespan.
Von Willebrand disease:
Von Willebrand disease is the blood clotting disease which is commonly found in Vizslas. In this disorder, blood clot does not occur whenever Vizsla is suffering from a cut or deep wound. The dog bleeds excessively, it can cause death of the dog if not treated on time. Surgery is the best option to treat this condition. It is important to conduct a specific DNA blood testbefore performing the surgery.
Epilepsy:
Epilepsy condition is an inherited disease which can cause seizures. This is due to the presence of brain tumor, stroke and trauma. Seizures in Vizslas usually start at an early age which is from six month to three years. Seizures can cause severe injuries and often lead to death. So, epilepsy is a common condition that reduces life expectancy.
Hemolytic Anemia:
Hemolytic anemia is the condition in which a dog’s immune system starts attacking its platelet. The destruction of white blood cells leads to its deficiency in the body that causes the Vizsla to be weak. The dog becomes anemic in this disease. Vizsla’s gums turn yellow instead of the bright pink normal color. To slow the immune system response, immunosuppressive drugs and steroids are recommended to treat this disorder. Emergency transfusion of red blood cells are also required in severe cases.
Obesity:
It is a severe condition in Vizslas that is responsible for a shorter lifespan. Obesity can cause joint problems in these dogs. Vizslas with already existing joint problems, obesity can exacerbate the condition. Obesity is also responsible for heart attack and back pain in Vizslas. The common bone conditions are canine panosteitis, hypertrophic osteodystrophy and osteochondritis dissecans. All these conditions occur due to obesity. If these conditions are detected early, it can be possible to treat them. Otherwise, it can reduce the lifespan of your beloved Vizslas.
Hypothyroidism:
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland produces less amount of thyroxine. It is very common in Vizslas, and can be treated if detected on time. The common symptoms of hypothyroidism are:
- Mental dullness
- Obesity
- Drooping of eyelids
- Low energy levels
The medication of hypothyroidism is given to the dog daily throughout the dog’s life.
Tips To Help Your Vizsla Live Longer
Here are some important tips that can help your Vizsla to live longer.
Grooming:
Grooming a Vizsla is an easy thing. You can easily brush their short coat with a bristle brush. It can make their coat shiny and also help to distribute the oil in their skin.
Vizslas do not need to be bathed frequently. It is important to trim your dog’s nails twice a month. Also, keep your Vizsla’s ears clean and dry so that they can prevent many infections. Moreover, you should also brush your dog’s teeth to prevent gum diseases and bad breathing.
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Physical activities:
Vizslas are an active breed that require a lot of exercise and physical activities to keep them healthy. You should take your Vizsla to walks, hikes or runs on a daily basis. It helps to stimulate their brain and also contributes to their mental development. Exercise helps to keep your dog in good shape. Exercise is an important practice that can help to increase the lifespan of Vizslas by keeping them healthy.
Diet:
It is important to feed your Vizslas good quality food. You have to make sure that your dog is getting all the important nutrients in their diet. You can provide them 3 to 4 cups of high-quality food which is divided into two meals. The right type of meal that contains all essential nutrients will help your dog to live a longer life.
Poor diet can lead to poor growth and cause many different diseases. So, good quality food is the key to increasing your dog’s lifespan. Additionally, you should provide plenty of water to prevent them from dehydration.
Regular checkups:
You should take your Vizsla to the veterinarian for regular checkups. It is essential for ensuring that your Vizsla is not suffering from underlying disease. It is also important because veterinarians can perform different tests for early diagnosis of the disease. So, the disease can be treated on time and reduce the risk of early death of the dog.
Vizslas are more prone to different health conditions such as hip dysplasia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism and hemolytic anemia. So, regular checkups are necessary to keep your dog healthy.
Final Words on Vizsla Life Expectancy
Vizslas are active, energetic and strong dogs. They are devoted companions and get very attached to their owners. They require a lot of exercise daily. The Vizsla’s average life expectancy is 12 to 15 years.
Vizslas, like other breeds, deserve to live a longer life. They are prone to some diseases, so you should take them to the veterinarian on a regular basis. You should always do proper care of your dog. Also, you have to provide them with good quality food. Proper care and affection help your dog to live a longer and healthier life.