With their velvety ears, soulful eyes, and affectionate nature, Hungarian Vizslas have a way of bonding deeply with their humans. Bred as hunting companions, these elegant athletes are just as loving as they are energetic — they stick by your side and are always eager to please. But behind their affectionate nature lies a sensitive, smart pup that craves structure just as much as company. 

In this guide, we’ll cover expert-backed training tips for Hungarian Vizslas, exploring their unique temperament, health considerations, the role of real food in learning, and how to unlock their full potential through structured training. 

Read more: Hungarian Vizsla breed insights: care, personality & expert tips 

Hungarian Vizsla temperament and trainability 

Loyal, smart, and emotionally attuned, Hungarian Vizslas thrive in active households where they receive consistent attention and stimulation. These are dogs that want to be involved in everything from ‘helping’ you in the garden to snuggling with you on the sofa — they’re often referred to as "Velcro Vizslas" for their close attachment to their humans. 

Training is typically smooth thanks to their eagerness to please and quick learning ability. However, Vizslas can become easily distracted or excitable if their high energy isn’t channeled appropriately. Without proper outlets, their enthusiasm can translate into undesirable behaviours like jumping, mouthing, or hyperactivity. 

This breed is known for their sensitivity and don’t respond well to harsh commands. The key is positive reinforcement and patience. With the right approach, Vizslas blossom into well-mannered companions that respond joyfully to training cues and thrive in both structured lessons and playful environments. 

Health considerations that can affect training 

While generally healthy, Vizslas may encounter a few breed-specific issues that could impact training: 

• Skin sensitivities and allergies: Hungarian Vizslas may be prone to skin allergies or sensitivities, leading to itching, redness, or irritation. Such discomfort can distract them during training and affect their well-being. Regular grooming and a diet containing vitamin E, zinc and ingredients with antioxidant properties can help maintain healthy skin.  

• Joint conditions: Joint issues, including hip dysplasia, can impact a Vizsla's mobility and willingness to participate in physical activities. Providing a complete and balanced diet with high-quality protein and rich in omega fatty acids, maintaining an appropriate exercise routine and a healthy weight can support your pup's joints. 

Always keep an eye out for signs your dog might be uncomfortable, in pain, or unusually disengaged, and consult a vet if needed. 

How real food fuels your Vizsla’s focus 

Just like us, dogs learn best when they’re feeling healthy, balanced and energised. Diet plays a big role in your pup’s ability to focus, stay calm, and retain information. 

Hungarian Vizslas benefit from: 

• Steady energy sources like butternut squash and purple sweet potato, have a low glycaemic load and help release energy slowly. 

• Essential fatty acids like DHA and EPA (omega-3s from fish, mussels, or fish oil), support brain health and development, memory, and learning. 

• Fresh, bioactive nutrients from ingredients like blueberries and shiitake mushrooms support immunity, skin health, and overall wellbeing. 

“A fresh food diet packed with brain-boosting nutrients supports your dog’s ability to learn and adapt. Omega-3s, especially DHA, are critical for memory and cognitive function.” 

– Dr Alex England, Lyka Veterinarian, BVetMed MANZCVS (Small Animal Veterinary Practice)  

Learn more about Dr Alexander England and his veterinary experience.

All Lyka meals are formulated by Board-Certified Veterinary Nutritionists to provide complete and balanced nutrition for learning, growth, and everyday health. 

Read more: Fuelling your dog’s focus: how nutrition impacts your dog’s training 

Exercise first for improved focus 

Vizslas are high-energy dogs that need plenty of physical and mental exercise. Giving them a solid workout before a training session helps release excess energy and sets the stage for better concentration. 

Ideal activities include: 

• Long walks or jogs 

• Off-leash play in secure areas 

• Fetch, agility, or nose work 

An exercised Vizsla is a calmer, more attentive Vizsla — just make sure they’re not overstimulated or overly fatigued before training. 

Training tips for Hungarian Vizslas 

Training a Vizsla is both exciting and rewarding — their intelligence and eagerness to engage make them quick learners with the right support. 

Keep sessions short, sweet, and full of positive vibes. Here’s what works best: 

Positive reinforcement 

This is the gold standard for training. Marking good behaviour with rewards like praise, affection, treats, or continued interaction, teaches your pup how to behave and supports a strong and positive relationship. 
 
Double up on rewards to mark excellent responses from your Vizsla, like praise and a pat, or praise and a treat. 

Find their favourite motivator 

Discovering your pup’s hierarchy of high-value rewards is a great way to keep your Vizsla motivated. Is it a nibble of roast chicken, their favourite squeaky toy, or playtime with you? 

Lyka’s Piggy Training Perks are a high-value, low-calorie treat that’s designed to keep your pup motivated and rewarded during training.  

Train at the right time 

Sometimes dogs don’t have the energy or desire to learn, especially if they’re too tired, too full, or hot and bothered. 
Mental enrichment through training can be tiring for dogs, so find the right time to train and stop if you notice your dog starting to lose focus or fatigue. 

Stay consistent 

Consistency is key to training. Not just in setting your expectations, but in using the same verbal and non-verbal cues. 

Be playful and engaging 

Vizslas are sensitive souls that can pick up on your mood. Keep your sessions fun and your positive energy will be contagious. 

Watch their body language 

If your pup starts to show signs of stress or tiredness, give them a break. If they’ve reached saturation point, it can be counterproductive to persevere. You can always come back to the training at another point. 

Training your Vizsla puppy 

Vizsla puppies are inquisitive bundles of energy, keen to explore but quick to get distracted. House training and early socialisation should be priorities, followed by basic commands. 

Focus on: 

• A regular toilet routine. 

• Positive crate training for safe sleep and downtime. 

• Early, controlled socialisation with people, dogs, and new environments.  

Vizslas, like many sensitive breeds, respond best to force-free methods that build confidence and a sense of safety.  

Read more: Force-free puppy training: what the experts want you to know  

Training your adult Vizsla 

Just because your Vizsla’s out of puppyhood doesn’t mean the training stops. In fact, ongoing mental stimulation is essential to keep their mind sharp and behaviour balanced. 

This might look like: 

• Reinforcing polite greetings at the door 

• Learning new tricks or games 

• Adjusting to life changes, like moving house 

• Training for mobility support, like using a ramp in senior years 

Dogs have neuroplasticity, meaning their brains adapt and change making them lifelong learners. Keep training light and engaging and celebrate progress, no matter how small. 

Real-life insight from Lyka parents 

Training Hungarian Vizslas can be as much fun as it is challenging! For real insight into the world of parenting Vizlsas, hear from Helen about her experiences with Holly. 

“Holly is a very clever but independent girl. She learns quickly but doesn’t always want to do as she’s told. However, she is food-motivated, so using Lyka treats like Piggy Training Perks and Beefy Bites has been a game changer for our training sessions.” 

• Helen and Holly (she’s on Lyka) 

When to call in a trainer or behaviourist 

Not sure if your Vizsla’s quirks are just stubbornness — or something deeper? 

A trainer is your go-to for obedience, manners, and routine behaviours. A qualified behaviourist, on the other hand, is best for issues like: 

• Reactivity 

• Anxiety or phobias 

• Aggression 

• Resource guarding 

They work closely with your vet to address underlying causes and create a tailored plan. The earlier you seek support, the easier it is to create lasting change. 

“If training your dog is very challenging, it may be worth considering a trainer or a behaviourist. A trainer can help you identify what may be triggering their behaviour and show you how to help your dog cope in those situations. The solution may be as simple as reframing what we expect from our dogs and our behaviours around them.” 

— Laura V, qualified dog behaviourist 

New to Lyka? Let’s rethink dog food together 

Training your Vizsla is a journey — one that requires consistency, creativity, and compassion. Whether you’re navigating house training with a stubborn puppy or teaching your senior dog new routines, every small win is a step toward a calmer, more connected life together. 

And remember, a well-fed brain is a trainable brain. Supporting your Vizsla’s learning with fresh, real food meals helps unlock their full potential. 

Lyka nourishes hundreds of Vizslas across Australia – from energetic pups to seniors in their golden years – they’re all thriving on Lyka.