You might think there isn’t much to Vizsla colors, but I’m here to inform you that these pups come in different colors! Or, even more precisely, shades of red (rust)!
However, not all of these Vizsla breed colors are approved by the American Kennel Club (AKC) registration. Some are known as standard colors; others are not recognized as such.
The Magyar Vizsla is famous for its rusty coat color – don’t mix them with Rhodesian Ridgebacks because these are two completely different dogs! I’m saying that because these two dogs have a similar physique and coat color.
However, the Rhodesian Ridgebacks have white markings on their chest and the characteristic “ridge,” which is a stripe of hair that grows in the opposite direction.
Vizslas epitomize a fast, clever, and agile hunter’s companion, standing between 21 and 24 inches at the shoulder and usually weighing 45 to 68 pounds. This dog is intense when working, compassionate, and loving around the family or its pack.
Since Vizslas are hunters and are meant to work closely with people, they develop a strong attachment with their owners and don’t really like being on their own.
Vizslas are multitalented athletes who thrive in various sports and pursuits. They are beautiful and enthusiastic trotters with excellent endurance, which makes them perfect companions for bicycling or jogging.
To go back on track, the color of the Wirehaired Vizsla can come in many shades, even if both of the parent dogs were of the exact same color! Let’s see the basic overview of what colors of Vizsla are standard, what are not, and what their registration code is for the show ring.
Vizsla Colors Overview
| Description | Standard | Registration Code |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Rust | Yes | 098 |
| Golden | No | 093 |
| Red | No | 140 |
| Red Golden | No | 153 |
| Rust | No | 161 |
| Rust Golden | No | 163 |
| Sandy Yellow | No | 169 |
Vizsla Markings Overview
| Description | White Markings |
| Standard Marking | NO |
| Registration Code | 041 |
Vizsla Colors, Markings, And Different Shades
You may have heard about the so-called “russet gold ” Vizsla color, but this is not the name of an actual color, but a bad English translation from the Hungarian language.
The English translation of the Hungarian phrase contains a mistake that results in the “russet gold” that can be found in English translations. However, the German translation “Semmelgelb” (Yellow bread) is more accurate.
Earlier, the Vizslas had more of a “golden” or “dark yellow” color that was, as the years went by, manipulated into a darker red by breeders.
The Vizsla breed’s golden to copper colors are a registered trademark, which is the easiest way to recognize this dog breed. However, let’s see all the possible shades, markings and colors in which the Vizsla can be!
1. Golden Rust Vizsla
Golden rust is the only standard coat color for Vizslas. The characteristic of this color is that it is equal and consistent throughout the coat and the entire body. Aside from being the standard, this is also the most prevalent color of Vizslas.
In addition to all the colors Vizslas can be in, the breed can have one extra “coat color.” These Vizslas with white markings are not excluded and are quite often.
These marks may appear on the chest or a few inches down the dog’s throat. They can also be present on the dog’s cheeks, paws, and area surrounding the muzzle.
But if the markings cover the neck or shoulders, the dog is not considered to have a standard breed color.
The marking is usually the result of age. It shouldn’t be a reason to disqualify the dog in these situations or be viewed as a flaw. However, some puppies also have markings on their bodies from birth.
2. Golden Vizsla
The Golden Vizsla is just a softer Golden Rust Vizsla, whose color is a bit more “washed-out” in comparison to the golden rust.
This color has more yellow tones to it, and according to historical descriptions of this dog breed, it is much more accurate than, for example, red Vizsla.
However, this coat color has a registration code under the AKC, but it is not checked as the standard color for this dog breed.
3. Red Vizsla
This Vizsla color is one of the most intense versions that this breed can have. It stands under the registration code 140 and is not the standardized Vizsla color; nonetheless, it does get a lot of attention.
The red Vizsla usually has the same solid color evenly distributed all over their coats.
4. Red Golden Vizsla
Like the Golden Rust Vizsla, the Red Golden Vizsla is a darker, more intense version of this dog breed.
A reddish-gold shade with mahogany or amber undertones will catch your attention. There may occasionally be a dark brown hue with distinct red tones.
5. Rust Vizsla
This deep, almost mahogany-colored Vizsla stands under registration code 161 and is not considered the standard color of this dog breed.
The majority of Vizsla’s rust-colored fur is “sprinkled” with an orange-brown shade and possibly lighter brown areas on the neck and shoulders.
6. Rust Golden Vizsla
This coat color has hues of warm rusty shade with a touch of gold. Occasionally, more reddish undertones will be around the eyes and nose.
It is a darker version of the golden Vizsla color. It is set under registration code 163 and is not considered the standard color of the Vizsla dog breed.
7. Sandy Yellow Vizsla
The sandy yellow Vizsla coat color stands under registration code 169, and it is not considered the standard color of this dog breed.
It is one of the rare colors that Vizsla dogs can come in. It resembles the yellow Labrador’s coat color the most!
Which Vizsla Colors Should You Avoid?
Regarding some unwanted dog features, coat color can play a significant role. Believe it or not, some colors of a dog’s coat can be a sign of obvious conditions that are unwanted.
Those who truly appreciate this dog breed will be dedicated to withstand the hallmark breed marks of the Vizsla, but it sometimes happens that mother nature or reckless breeders produce something that is followed by many health problems.
And yes, I am talking about white Vizslas and Albino Vizslas. To get things straight, both of them are really rare, but from time to time, it happens. So please, if you are a breeder, don’t breed albino Vizslas any further! These colors are not approved nor standardized.
Following centuries of this dog breed’s existence, Vizslas have always been of this characteristic golden rusty color. Hence, being completely white can result in some health issues, aside from the general health issue of large dog breeds – hip dysplasia.
White dogs often are paired with deafness and/or blindness, and the Albino dogs are often paired, aside from deafness and blindness, with skin allergies, skin cancer, and a shorter lifespan.
The natural state of the dog and the color they are usually in are the healthiest options for any future dog owner.
Does The Vizsla Color Match Their Personality?
If you ever heard of the orange cat personality, there is something similar regarding dogs and the orange dog personality.
Orange dogs are usually on the high-energy level side, enjoying various activities. Be prepared to gather all of the training information you are able to! A Vizsla ranch would be perfect for these dogs to exploit their unlimited energy.
They have the body shape of an athlete, and would be great in any kind of dog sports. They were bred to be gundogs in communist Hungary, actively participating in hunting. Therefore, an active approach is the best approach when it comes to the red leather rockstar Vizslas.
Their physical attributes are just mere evidence of these dogs’ prominent position as one of the best hunter of fowl.
That would be a good indication that these dogs will need responsible dog ownership and a firm hand that won’t just walk away and go to bed when these dogs need active time.
Be prepared to forge a strong bond with your pup to help its lively spirit prosper. Its dense undercoat, shiny top coat, and strong back legs make this dog one of the best hunting dogs out there.
Taking Care Of Vizla’s Beautiful Coat And Grooming Needs
Russet gold or Golden Rust, or any other color of this breed’s coat should naturally be short and dense, straight, and smooth. Also, the coat should almost be “greasy” when touching it – meaning that you have to preserve Vizla’s natural oil distribution in its coat.
One way of doing so is by not over-bathing and over-washing it! These dogs were not bred to be lapdogs whose coats can be groomed every week or so. They were bred for work in different weather conditions and environments; therefore, babying it would be a fault.
Its beautiful head is to be cleaned every now and then, paying special attention to its ears and the area around its eyes. Using a sensitive wet wipe for dogs to clean that area would work. Adding best dog food for this dog breed would be needed, especially one that is protein-based.
You can take the Vizsla every four months or so (depending on the hunting season or how much the dog has worked) to be professionally groomed by a dog groomer. This also includes clipping the dog’s nails, shampooing, as well as adding protective oils to the dog’s coat.
One thing to add when it comes to Vizsla colors and grooming is that if you have a white or an albino Vizsla, you will have to pay extra attention when it comes to their coat and overall maintenance.
If you have an albino or a white Vizsla, you will need to apply SPF to all the most sensitive and sun-exposed parts of its body because its skin is much more sensitive than the skin of the other color Vizslas.
Which Vizsla Color Did Catch Your Attention?
After seeing all of these beautiful Vizsla colors available, you must have liked at least one Vizsla color more than the others. That is perfectly fine because, as a (future) dog owner, you have the right to like some traits more than others, as well as coat colors.
However, it is a fact that the intensely red-colored Vizslas and the white/albino ones are the furthest away from the description of the standards of this dog breed. Not just from the standards but from the earliest records of this dog breed’s existence.
Having that in mind, your decision should be based on what is best for your dog and its health. When it comes to any dog breed, it is best to follow and to have/get the standard color of this dog breed because that dog will be less prone to health issues of any kind.
Vizslas are lovely dogs that need an active owner or family to meet their lifestyle goals. These dogs are not the best options for people who are lazy in any way; therefore, don’t expect this dog to be happy and healthy if you spend most of your time in front of your laptop or TV.
They need at least two to three hours of everyday tiring activities, such as running, long walks, and playtime.
Because of their high activity levels, it would be best to provide these pups with mental stimulation (for example, interactive dog toys), even after the physical exercise. This dog would particularly enjoy squeaky dog toys!
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Zerina is an experienced content writer who found her passion for writing while pursuing her degree in English language and literature.
Growing up with a beloved dog as her companion, Zerina developed love for canines from a young age. Inspired by her bond with her furry friend, she decided to combine her writing skills with her love for dogs.