Vizsla health: what owners should know

Vizslas are sturdy dogs overall, yet hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, hypothyroidism and a skin condition called sebaceous adenitis are all recognized in the breed. Some lines also show a higher rate of certain cancers, including hemangiosarcoma and mast cell tumors, which makes regular checkups more valuable from middle age onward.

Well-run breeding programs hip and elbow score their dogs, have eyes examined and can talk openly about epilepsy in the pedigree. Keeping your dog lean and fit protects its joints for life. See a vet if you notice a lump that grows or changes, patchy hair loss with scaly skin, unusual tiredness or weight gain without a change in diet, or any seizure, however brief.