Are you looking for an adventurous, intelligent, and active dog that you can take on outdoor trips? Because of their endearing qualities, the Hungarian Vizsla Lab mix or Vizslador might be the one for you.
Combining the outgoing and sweet nature of the Labrador Retriever and the Vizsla’s desire to be around people, you can expect a unique cross that will surely warm your heart and keep you happy.
If you got curious about this mix, do continue reading. In this article, I will tell you every detail you must know about what makes a Vizsla Labrador Retriever mix unique.
What Is a Vizsla Lab Mix?
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The Vizsla Lab mix, also referred to as a “Vizslador” or a “Labrala,” is a designer dog that came from two separate dog breeds, the Hungarian Vizsla and the Labrador Retriever. This mixed breed is known to be energetic, adventurous, and loyal. They are established as good working dogs as well.
Both of its parents come from breeds that are used as hunting dogs. That’s why they naturally like to be outdoors and are usually curious about their surroundings.
Although its purebred parents are AKC-recognized, the Vizsla Lab is not since it’s a mixed breed. Therefore, they are not qualified to join the said club.
However, they are recognized by other organizations such as The Dog Registry of America, Inc. (DRA), American Canine Hybrid Club (ACHC), Designer Dogs Kennel Club (DDKC), Designer Breed Registry (DBR), and International Designer Canine Registry (IDCR).
Vizsla Lab Mix Origin and History: Where Does the Vizsla Labrador Mix Come From?
There is little information about the exact origin of this designer breed. But it is believed that the Hungarian Vizsla Labrador mix was first bred when the Hungarian Vizsla dog was brought to the United States.
This was most likely by the time World War II was coming to an end. Many years later, the interest in the breed began to escalate because of its amazing hunting abilities.
The ancient lineage of the Vizsla Lab mix’s parent breeds has been around for centuries.
The Vizsla was originally bred 1,000 years ago in Hungary as a hunting companion. That was its main purpose due to its dominant instinct to point and retrieve.
Labrador Retrievers, on the other hand, date back to the 1500s in Newfoundland in Canada.
These dogs were owned by fishermen, and their main purpose was to retrieve fish that had fallen from fishing hooks and pull back nets filled with fish.
These two breeds share many similarities when it comes to their temperaments. This results in an offspring that will grow up to be highly intelligent, hardworking, and capable of being a hunting and working dog.
Vizsla Lab Mix Appearance: What Does a Vizslador Look Like?
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The physical appearance of this designer dog may vary depending on which parent’s genetics are more dominant. It may look like a Vizsla with the features of a Labrador or the other way around.
However, they typically have V-shaped ears, dark-colored noses, and short, straight coats. They either have a muscular or a thin and tall physique.
Their coat colors can be rust, fawn, golden, cream, or black. They may also inherit the chocolate brown color of the Labrador. Moreover, this hybrid can also have either brown or amber eyes, depending on the parent breeds.
A Vizsla Chocolate Lab mix is one of the most unique and eye-catching mixed dogs you can find.
Sometimes you will be able to distinguish the parent breeds’ differences, but there are times you’ll have a hard time noticing it, especially if they exhibit a unique coat color.
In spite of that, when they are mixed together, their offspring make up this perfect blend of physical features that looks beautifully balanced.
Vizsla Lab Mix Size and Weight: How Big Do Vizsladors Get When Fully Grown?
For a male Vizsla Lab mix, it can grow at around 22 to 26 inches tall and weigh between 60 and 80 pounds. Meanwhile, the females’ height can go between 21 and 25 inches, and they may weigh around 55 to 75 pounds.
The parent breeds’ gender may also influence their adult size. That’s why you should familiarize yourself with the similarities and differences between male and female Vizslas and Labrador Retrievers.
Since both the Vizsla and Labrador are considered medium-sized breeds, we can expect that the Vizsla Lab mix puppy will fully grow with a similar height and weight.
Medium-sized dogs don’t require a huge space. Even this hybrid dog can walk around in an apartment-living kind of area. However, it can be an advantage if you own a house with a backyard.
As long as they have an area they can freely run around to, and they are regularly taken outside for a trip or a long walk with their humans, they will be just fine and satisfied.
Vizsla Lab Mix Temperament: Are Vizsla Lab Mixes Good Family Dogs?
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They are indeed good family dogs. Whether they’re an additional family member or companion for beginners, the Vizsla Labrador mix makes wonderful, fun-loving, protective pets for families, especially when well-trained.
They are amazing with young ones as well since they are playful, loving, and have gentle behavior.
Being high-energy dogs that they are, they will certainly enjoy activities that allow them to run around and explore, like going on hikes, walks, or jogs with their humans.
They are easy to please because they are eager to learn and love human interaction, which makes them very sociable to anyone of any age.
This mix, however, does not like to be left alone, hence being called a “velcro” dog. They may exhibit signs of separation anxiety because they love to be clingy and snuggly with their humans.
When you own Vizsla Lab mix puppies, you have to make sure to provide them continuous attention and training for them to develop good social skills as they grow.
Watch this video of a Vizsla Lab mix in training to have a peek at their skills and trainability:
Kibo - Vizsla x Labrador Puppy - 3.5 Week Residential Dog Training<a href="https://youtu.be/QrwEszMqmEg" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank"><img src="https://www.bubblypet.com/wp-content/plugins/wp-youtube-lyte/lyteCache.php?origThumbUrl=https%3A%2F%2Fi.ytimg.com%2Fvi%2FQrwEszMqmEg%2F0.jpg" alt="Kibo - Vizsla x Labrador Puppy - 3.5 Week Residential Dog Training" width="1280" height="700" /><br />Watch this video on YouTube</a>
READ NEXT: Male vs. Female Vizsla: Which Is Better?
Vizsla Lab Mix Lifespan and Health Issues: Are Vizsladors Healthy Dogs?
In general, mixed breeds are considered healthier than purebreds because of what scientists call hybrid vigor.
A Vizsla Lab mix’s lifespan, if well-taken care of, can range between 10 and 14 years, comparable to a Vizsla’s life expectancy.
With proper exercise and diet, and regular checkups to the vet, you can assure yourself and your growing Vizsla Labrador mix a healthy life. Unfortunately, they are still prone to a few health problems.
Here are some common health issues in Vizsla Lab mixes you should know about:
Hip Dysplasia: This is a skeletal condition common in the parent breeds that affects the hip joints. Vizsla Lab mix dogs that develop hip dysplasia may have difficulty moving and walking. As these affected parts deteriorate, the pain becomes more intense, resulting in immobility. Hip and elbow dysplasia may also be a possible combination.
Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by sudden seizures due to an abnormality in the brain. Although there haven’t been any established causes for this health issue, it is believed that this results from a presence of a brain tumor or from trauma, stroke, or the brain metabolism that may cause critical conditions and even death.
Sebaceous Adenitis: This is a common inflammatory skin problem in Vizslas. Since the Vizsla Lab mix has a short double coat, they are prone to this disease. This results in hair loss along with drying and scaling of the skin, mostly affecting the trunk, head, and ears.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA): Even though considered a minor issue, progressive retinal atrophy is a group of degenerative diseases that alters the photoreceptor cells. When your Vizsla Lab mix dog has this disease, this may lead to partial to complete blindness if the cells continue to degrade.
Some health problems tend to be inevitable due to genetics. But as long as you are well aware of where you got your Vizsla Lab mix pups and you take good care of them, they will develop little to no health issues.
Also, make sure that your pooch’s parents are regularly taken to vet appointments for necessary tests before breeding. This will also help to ensure that the future lineage will have healthy genes.
How to Take Care of Your Vizsla Lab Mix
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When you own a Vizsla Lab mix, despite them being easily maintained, you should be consistent in taking responsibility as they will depend on you for their needs.
As a Vizsla Lab puppy grows into a full adult, you must provide them with extra care to remain healthy and well-behaved.
Keep reading to know more on how to keep your Vizsla Labrador mix happy, healthy, and well-trained.
Food and Diet
A dog with an active lifestyle requires a big appetite. Vizsla Labs are expected to eat at least three to four meals of a protein-rich diet. This ensures they keep their coats shiny and their physique in good proportion.
Although dog foods are great for them, preparing meals that are home-cooked consisting mainly of chicken, fish, eggs, and beef would surely be a better option because it has no preservatives and possible artificial flavors.
Their body grows as they age, meaning their appetite does, too. Be sure to check the portion of their meals to avoid gaining or even losing weight as it may easily affect their health.
Cleaning and Grooming
Their short and straight coats make them easier to maintain, but that doesn’t mean they don’t need regular brushing. They shed moderately, so be sure you still brush their fur at least thrice a week.
When it comes to bathing, they only need it when necessary. Choose a shampoo that is gentle to their skin and coat to avoid irritation.
Be sure to also do a weekly checkup and cleaning of their ears with a clean damp cloth to remove dirt and prevent the risk of developing ear infections.
If you take your Vizsla Lab pooch for a walk regularly, this ensures their nails are naturally trimmed. However, you should be wary of cracking, chipping, and nail splits. It’s still advised to trim their nails every 3 to 4 weeks.
Training and Exercise
The Vizsla Labrador mix’s physical health is just as important as their mental health.
Taking them on a vigorous walk every day for at least 30 to 60 minutes will not only release their pent-up energy but will also increase their stamina and vital senses.
It is believed that this mixed dog doesn’t mature quickly; therefore, you’ll need more effort and patience in training your dog.
Training your dog using positive reinforcement is effective in helping your pooch grow into a well-behaved adult.
Incorporating other activities can also keep your Vizsla Lab dog happy and satisfied. You can even take them to the beach and do things such as playing fetch, swimming, and jogging.
When you are to leave them alone at home, be sure to take them for a quick run, or you may leave them toys, puzzles, or any indoor activity to keep them busy.
How Much Does a Vizsla Lab Mix Cost? Puppy Prices and Expenses
If you buy from a reputable, quality-conscious breeder, you can get your very own Vizsla Labrador puppy for around $800 to $2,500.
This price may vary depending on which lineage the pup came from, the colors, even their markings, and the breeder’s reputation and location.
Aside from that, there is an initial cost you must be prepared to shell out.
The table below summarizes the initial expenses of owning a Vizsla Lab mix puppy:
Once you have this in mind, you should be able to prepare your initial budget for your future Vizsla Labrador.
However, you must also keep in mind the recurring cost which goes around $170. This should cover the dog food, grooming, vitamins, medications, dog walker fees, and more.
For more information about further costs, here is our article about Vizsla expenses.
Places to Find Vizsla Lab Mix Puppies for Sale and Adoption
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Unfortunately, you might have a hard time looking for your very own Vizsla Labrador since they are not a very popular mix.
Some of their offspring are often only because of accidental breeding, while some breeders rarely breed them.
Here are some puppy advertising sites that might offer Vizsla Labrador mixes for sale:
Greenfield Puppies – This is a family-run organization that aims to provide healthy puppies, including Vizsla Lab mixes, to caring families. They prioritize the pups’ well-being, so all of the breeders are expected to fulfill all guidelines they have provided before being approved.
Good Dog – This is another website with reputable breeders and shelters that are passionate about their dogs’ utmost being. They will provide guidance throughout your search for a quality Vizsla Lab puppy.
PuppySpot – PuppySpot is a growing community of dog lovers dedicated to connecting their top breeders to passionate families in search of a puppy. Be sure to check their website, and they will assist you in your hunt for a Vizsla Labrador pooch.
You might also want to check out this article on where to find Vizsla puppies for sale as a guide.
Before buying, make sure to read our puppy buying guide to have safe transactions online.
If you are unable to find them on the said sites, you may check local shelters or organizations near you to adopt a Labrador Vizsla mix.
Check out these rescues and shelters below to adopt a Vizsla Lab mix:
Vizsla Rescue Haven – They are a nonprofit organization based in California with a mission to care for and sponsor abandoned Vizslas. They provide hope for these pups who deserve another chance to be with a loving family.
Lab Rescue LRCP – This is a virtual nonprofit organization from Virginia that aims to find its rescue Labs a new loving home. Aside from rescuing dogs, this Labrador rescue is committed to providing essentials and assistance while waiting for another family to take them home.
Adopt-a-Pet – This is an organization that aims to provide homeless dogs with a new loving home. They will gladly assist you in finding a Vizsla Labrador mix worthy of another chance at life.
Adoption is a good alternative since it can be cheaper, and you get an adult dog that is already equipped with basic obedience training. Make sure to read our ultimate dog adoption guide to ace your application.
You may also check our list of Labrador Retriever rescues for adoption for more options.
If you don’t have the budget for purchasing or adopting, here is detailed information on ways to find a free puppy near you.
Pros and Cons of Owning a Labrador Vizsla Mix
Every pure and mixed-breed dog has advantages and disadvantages. It’s an important decision and responsibility to consider these things when you plan to get a Vizsla Labrador mix.
If you are a bit hesitant about it, here are some of the pros and cons I have gathered about owning a Vizsla Lab pooch.
The pros of owning a Vizsla Labrador mix you must know:
Eager to learn: From puppyhood to adulthood, Vizsla Labs will continue wanting to be trained, especially when their humans use positive reinforcement. The essential thing to teach them is basic obedience training to become well-behaved dogs.
Kind and sociable to anyone: With proper training, they’ll surely be able to socialize anywhere, even in a dog park with many other pets and people. They’ll happily join you for a jog around the area or play fetch with other dogs.
Make good military, service, therapy, or rescue dogs: Being exceptional companions run in their blood. With proper and meticulous training, their gentle and protective demeanor can make them perfect service dogs, military dogs, and even therapy dogs for people with special needs. Their top-notch tracking abilities would also make a good rescue dog.
On the other hand, the cons of owning a Vizsla Lab mix are listed below:
Unpredictable maturity stage: If you don’t constantly engage your Vizsla Lab puppy with the essential training it needs, it will have a hard time behaving and maturing as they age. They may even keep negative traits and behavior if not disciplined enough.
Can get too clingy: You won’t have the alone time you used to have once you bring home a Vizsla Lab if you don’t teach them boundaries. Although being clingy seems cute, it should not be continually tolerated. You may leave them with toys or clothing items with your scent when you leave them alone.
Can have destructive behaviors: This usually happens when they present signs of separation anxiety. They don’t like feeling agitated, and this may manifest through barking, running around, or chewing on things in the house.
With this list, you can now easily determine if the Vizsla Lab is suitable for you.
As I have mentioned, consistent obedience and even crate training are important for dogs like this designer breed.
If you are as determined to teach these early on, you won’t have to worry about any of the mix breed’s cons.
Frequently Asked Questions
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Do Vizsla Lab Mixes Bark a Lot?
Vizsla Labs, like the pure Vizsla and Labrador, don’t frequently bark. This is especially true if they are trained properly. However, they are known to be vocal when their instincts tell them they are near any potential danger.
Sometimes they simply bark from excitement or when they want to gain your attention, so it is best to always let them know they are heard.
Do Vizsla Lab Mixes Shed a Lot?
Although they have short coats, they still shed moderately, so it’s better not to take that part for granted. You may lessen the shedding by brushing their fur at least three times a week.
Be sure to also check your couch and furniture for fur every now and then. Regularly cleaning their loose fur will prevent allergies around the house.
Are Vizsla Lab Mixes Hypoallergenic?
Both Vizslas and Labrador Retrievers are not hypoallergenic; hence, their mix is non-hypoallergenic as well.
If you have allergies, it might not be ideal for you to risk your health, so it is best to check in with a doctor first before getting one.
Final Thoughts: Is a Vizsla Retriever Mix the Right Dog for You?
The Hungarian Vizsla Labrador mix is a great companion, both indoors and outdoors. In general, they are good with people as well as other animals.
Their affectionate and energetic temperaments make them perfect playmates for younger kids. Similarly, their protectiveness and gentleness towards their family members can bring you safety and assurance.
However, this hybrid pooch is best suited for people with an active lifestyle. If you are that person or family, you and your pooch will bond in every way.
Other than that, Vizsladors can be a bit challenging to handle as it takes quite an amount of time for them to be completely obedient. However, their appreciation of your effort, love, and patience is definitely worth it.
Do you own a Vizsla Lab mix? If so, did you find this article helpful? Let us know in the comments section below!
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