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I have been reading up on Vizslas and they seem like wonderful home and hunting dogs as well. I realize that this is A GSP forum but does anybody have an opinion on Vizslas? GSP sound like great dogs but how do Vizslas stack up in comparison? I would like a dog as a family member and a hunting, hiking outdoors companion. I would also seriously consider a rescue. Thanks for all of your help. Rick
GSPs rank 17th on Coren's list of Breed Intelligence. Vizsla's rank 25th (Labs are 7th, and Border Collie is 1st for reference). Both are in the category of Excellent Working Dogs, with understanding of new commands within 5 - 15 repetitions, and obey first command 85% of the time or better. Basically, it means that GSPs are easier to train, and more reliable once trained (albeit barely, and on average). (Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Intelligence_of_Dogs)
I have both, 1 Vizsla and 6 GSPs, all are family/hunting/house dogs. Both breeds are great but are not for everyone. A short version of my observations (for what it is worth), GSPs are velcro dogs, Vizslas are super glue. While my GSPs are cuddled up next to you on the couch, the Vizsla has to be on you, the higher the better. Vizslas tend to be slower to mature, they react more to your moods and can be quite the manipulators. At 6 my Vizsla still has a ton of energy bouncing around like a super ball. The GSPs have energy but are much quicker to settle down in the house. Most field Vizsla breeders will tell you they do not start breaking their dogs until around 3 years. GSPs are more forgiving of hander/training errors. When working my GSPs they can be hard headed but seem to be much more willing to please. The Vizsla seems to know what I want but it takes a lot of convincing to get her to do it my way rather than hers.
Don't believe everything you read about the breeds. My best advice is to meet both breeds before deciding which one fits your family best. Either way you go, find a breeder that is willing to give you lots of help along the way, especially with a Vizsla.