Quick Links: Table of Contents
- How Long Vizslas Live. Vizsla Life Expectancy
- Lifespan of the Vizsla Compared to Other Dog Breeds
- Common Causes of Death in Vizsla, and how to Prevent Them.
- How To Prevent Genetic Problems in Vizslas
- How Old is Your Vizsla in Human Years
- How Long Do Vizslas Live in Human Years?
- More Ways to Make Your Vizsla Live Long
- Conclusion on Vizsla Life Expectancy
How Long Vizslas Live. Vizsla Life Expectancy
Generally, the lifespan of the Vizsla is from 10 to 14 years.
Moreover, a few years back, British Veterinarinan researchers performed a scientific study to determine the lifespan of the Vizsla. In this study, the scientists collected data on how long 38 pet Vizslas lived.
From the study, it was found that Vizslas have a average lifespan of 12.9 years. Furthermore, the study found that Vizslas can live for as long as 17 years.
Furthermore, researchers from the University of Georgia conducted a study to find out what are the top causes of death in Vizslas.
According to the study, the top 5 causes of death in Vizslas are:
- Neoplastic Disease: Issues involving tumors
- Respiratory Disease: Problems with lungs and breathing
- Trauma: Issues involving injury
- Gastrointestinal Disease: Any problems that affect the mouth, esophagus, stomach, intestines, colon, or rectum.
- Cardiovascular Disease: Encompasses heart problems, blood pressure issues, and bleeding/clotting problems. CV issues may also be related to lung and/or breathing problems.
In this article, we will explain each of these diseases and discuss how to prevent the early occurence of each in your Vizsla to make your Vizsla live a longer.
Also, in this article, we will discuss other things you can do to ensure that your Vizsla have a longer than average lifespan.
Do you want to know how old your Vizsla is in human years? Then, check out our Vizsla age to human years calculator
Lifespan of the Vizsla Compared to Other Dog Breeds
See in the table below how the lifespan of the Vizsla compares to the lifespan of other dog breeds.
| Dog Breed | Average Lifespan (Years) |
|---|---|
| Basenji Lifespan | 13.50 |
| Bearded Collie Lifespan | 13.50 |
| West Highland White Terrier Lifespan | 13.00 |
| Vizsla Lifespan | 12.90 |
| Manchester Terrier Lifespan | 12.80 |
| Dachshund Lifespan | 12.60 |
| Chihuahua Lifespan | 12.40 |
| Border Collie Lifespan | 12.20 |
| Golden Retriever Lifespan | 12.20 |
| Brussels Griffon Lifespan | 12.00 |
| Australian Terrier Lifespan | 12.00 |
| Lancashire Heeler Lifespan | 11.70 |
| Irish Red & White Setter Lifespan | 11.40 |
| Doberman Pinscher Lifespan | 10.50 |
| Glen of Imaal Terrier Lifespan | 10.40 |
| Otterhound Lifespan | 10.20 |
| Wirehaired Vizsla Lifespan | 9.83 |
| Greyhound Lifespan | 9.08 |
| Leonberger Lifespan | 7.08 |
| Black Russian Terrier Lifespan | 1.79 |
Common Causes of Death in Vizsla, and how to Prevent Them.
We will now discuss the common causes of death in Vizsla, according to scientific research. Also we will provide you advice on how to prevent these problems in your Vizsla.
Here are the causes of death, starting from the most common cause
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Neoplastic Disease in Vizslas
Neoplasms, or tumors, can be benign (like a lipoma), or malignant (cancer).
Neoplastic Disease is responsible for 36.4 percent of all deaths in Vizslas.
Causes of Neoplastic Disease in Vizsla
Neoplasms in dogs, just like in people, are caused by either a genetic predisposition (like some breast cancers), an environmental factor (like smoking in humans), or a combination of both.
How to Prevent Neoplastic Disease in Vizslas
Just like in humans, there is little you can do to prevent cancers that are caused by genetic factors. You can, however, reduce the environmental risks that are associated with cancer. The `environmental` causes of neoplasia are chemical agents, infectious agents, and physical agents. An example of a chemical agent that could cause cancer in Vizslas (and humans) is asbestos. An example of an infectious agent that could cause cancer in Vizslas is the virus called canine adenovirus. An example of a physical agent that can cause cancer in Vizslas is UV radiation from the sun, just like in humans.
Another way to prevent neoplasms in Vizslas is to vaccinate them against harmful viruses, such as canine adenovirus (DHPP vaccine at 8 and 12 weeks and then once a year, every year). As in humans, early diagnosis is the key to supporting Vizslas with neoplasms, so talk to your veterinarian if you find any new lumps, bumps, or discoloration on your Vizsla. You should also talk to your veterinarian if your Vizsla`s gums look pale.
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Respiratory Disease in Vizslas
Respiratory diseases includes asthma, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other conditions. May also be related to left-sided heart failure and other cardiovascular issues.
Respiratory Disease is responsible for 13.6 percent of all deaths in Vizslas.
Causes of Respiratory Disease in Vizsla
Some lung conditions can be caused by bacteria, viruses, and parasites. Other lung conditions, such as asthma, can be related to allergies and genetic conditions. Some breeds (called brachycephalic breeds) are more susceptible to breathing problems. These breeds appear to have their noses and snouts kind of squished into their faces. Although they are very cute, these breeds can have serious breathing problems throughout their lives which may require surgery. Additionally, dogs and cats can often get colds and other upper respiratory infections because of stress. Common causes of stress in dogs include separation anxiety, thunderstorms and other loud noises, the introduction of other animals into the home, and more.
How to Prevent Respiratory Disease in Vizslas
Respiratory diseases can be prevented by supporting the immune health of your Vizsla, by making sure you feed your Vizsla a good, nutritious dog food brand, give them plenty of exercises, and help them live in a stress-free environment. There are several options for supplements and therapies that can help reduce stress in your Vizsla. Some Vizsla do really well with thundershirts, which are snug shirts that swaddle the dogs and help them calm down during thunderstorms and other stressful events. Furthermore, Vizslas that are anxious with loud sounds might also benefit from calming supplements, such as Anxiety TFLN. For general anxiety, the supplement Composure or Composure Pro might help calm your Vizsla`s nervousness. Some Vizslas do really well with supplements, but just like with people, supplements do not work for everyone. If you are not seeing results after a few weeks of putting your Vizsla on a supplement to calm anxiety, you should talk to your veterinarian about behavioral therapy and stronger medications.
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Trauma in Vizslas
These includes cuts, bites, bruises, broken bones, wounds, scratches, and more.
Trauma is responsible for 13.6 percent of all deaths in Vizslas.
Causes of Trauma in Vizsla
One of the most common causes of trauma in Vizslas is getting hit by cats. Another common cause is bites and scratches from fighting or play with other dogs.
How to Prevent Trauma in Vizslas
The best way to keep your Vizsla from getting hit by a car is by having them on a fixed leash. Veterinarians do not recommend retractable leashes for dogs. This is because, oftentimes, dogs on retractable leashes will bolt into the road before their owners can lock the leash and get hit by cars, even though they were technically on a leash. Having a normal, fixed leash is also a good way to prevent your Vizsla from bolting on walks and getting into fights with other dogs before you can lock the leash.
Here is a good fixed leash that can save your Vizsla from traumatic accidents.
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Gastrointestinal Disease in Vizslas
Gastrointestinal diseases includes vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, stomach upset, blockages, toothache, constipation, and more.
Gastrointestinal Disease is responsible for 12.7 percent of all deaths in Vizslas.
Causes of Gastrointestinal Disease in Vizsla
GI problems can be caused by a lot of different things. Often, GI problems like vomiting and diarrhea are caused by things that were eaten. It is best not to let your Vizsla eat human food or anything it finds outside, including garbage, plants and berries, fecal matter from other animals, and more. Vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach upset can also be caused by bacterial, viral, and parasitic infections. Another important sign of GI problems is when your Vizsla stops eating or eats less than usual. This can be caused by many things; sometimes it could be that your Vizsla is feeling nauseous, sometimes it could be that your Vizsla has mouth pain, and more. In these cases, it is best to see a veterinarian to get to the root of the problem.
How to Prevent Gastrointestinal Disease in Vizslas
An easy way to protect your dog from gastrointestinal problems is to make sure they are on heartworm, flea, and tick medicine all year long (no matter where you live). Many heartworm medications can also de-worm your dog every time you give a dose. This can prevent nasty parasites from settling into your dog`s intestines and causing pain, anemia, and other serious issues. Another way you can keep your dog feeling good is by taking good care of their teeth! This is especially an issue in small dogs. The best way to care for dog teeth is by cleaning them a few times a week. Here is a great brush for cleaning your Vizsla`s teeth. However, if your dog will not allow you to do that, dental treats like these are a good second option.
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Cardiovascular Disease in Vizslas
Cardiac problems may include valvular and vascular disorders, which ultimately lead to the heart`s inability to pump oxygen-rich blood to tissues. Cardiac issues can be acute or chronic, and can lead to progressive heart failure or sudden death.
Cardiovascular Disease is responsible for 11.9 percent of all deaths in Vizslas.
Causes of Cardiovascular Disease in Vizsla
Heart disease in Vizslas may be caused by genetic (inherited) factors, lack of exercise, and poor diet. Heart disease can also be caused by infections such as bacteria (endocarditis, myocarditis, and more) as well as viruses, fungi, and parasites (heartworm).
How to Prevent Cardiovascular Disease in Vizslas
You can prevent heart problems in your Vizsla by exercising your Vizsla regularly and feeding your Vizsla a good diet. Heartworm, which causes heart problems, is also very easily avoided by using preventatives. Giving your dog the following supplements can help prevent heart diseases. Here is a good supplement that can prevent heart problems in your Vizsla. The supplement is not only good for your Vizsla`s heart, but it is also good for your Vizsla`s overall health.
How To Prevent Genetic Problems in Vizslas
Every dog breed has a set of genetic problems to which it is predisposed, and the Vizsla is not an exception.
These disease will reduce your Vizsla`s qualilty of life. Also, these diseases can shorten your Vizsla`s lifespan.
The good news is that these diseases can be prevented in Vizsla offsprings by only breeding Vizsla that have been screened and cleared of genetic defects.
The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) is one the organizations that keep records of which disease to which a dog breed is genetically prone.
The OFA provides breeders recommendations on which genetic diseases that breeders should screen their dog parents and puppies for.
If you want a Vizsla puppy that will grow up to be healthy and live long, make sure that your Vizsla breeder screens your puppy or your puppy`s parents for the health problems that the OFA recommends for your puppy`s breed. This will increase the chances that your puppy is free from genetic defects.
If you do not know if your Vizsla has been screened for genetic health problems, then your can use an at-home genetic screening kit like this one to check your Vizsla for genetic health problems at home. This might help you in deciding whether to get your Vizsla a pet health insurance.
The following are the health tests that Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) recommends that breeders should screen Vizslas for:
How Old is Your Vizsla in Human Years
The table below shows your human years equivalent age of your Vizsla. This table is based on a dog-to-human age study conducted by researchers from Purdue University.
Learn more about how old your Vizsla is in human years here.
In 1997, researchers from Purdue University developed a method for converting a dog`s age to its human age. Their method was based on the 1953 work of the French Veterinarian, A. Lebeau that we discussed above.
Researchers from Purdue University took Lebeau`s work further by taking into account two important factors to develop a more accurate method for converting a dog`s age into its human equivalent age:
- The size of the dog: Smaller dog breeds live longer than larger breed dogs
- The lifespan of the dog: Dog breeds that live longer lives will age slower than dog breeds that live shorter lives
The average lifespan of the Vizsla is 12.9 years.
Vizslas are medium-sized dogs. Vizslas weigh 45 to 65 pounds.
The method developed by the Purdue University veterinarian researchers took into account the lifespan and size of Vizsla in converting Vizsla age to human age.
The researchers used data on the lifespan and weight of 5,608 mixed breed dogs and 17,927 purebred dogs to develop their method for converting the ages of dogs (of different breed sizes and lifespans ) to their equivalent human ages.
The calculator below lets you convert your Vizsla`s age to its human age based on the Purdue University method. Just enter your Vizsla`s age in the calculator and it will compute your Vizsla`s human age. If you do not know your Vizsla`s exact age, enter an approximate age in the calculator.
Also, the table below shows how old your Vizsla is in human years based on the method developed by the researchers.
Note that your Vizsla`s human age changes day by day. Therefore, always check back to use the calculator to find your Vizsla`s up-to-date human age.
Vizsla Age to Human Age Calculator (Purdue Uni. Method)
Below is a Vizsla age to human age calculator that is based on the methods developed by researchers from Purdue University.
The calculator will tell your Vizsla`s human age based on your Vizsla`s dog birthday. Also, the calculator will tell you which day is your Vizsla`s human birthday! Try it out!
| Vizsla Age (Years) | Human Age (Years) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 14 |
| 2 | 21 |
| 3 | 26 |
| 4 | 32 |
| 5 | 37 |
| 6 | 42 |
| 7 | 46 |
| 8 | 50 |
| 9 | 54 |
| 10 | 58 |
| 11 | 62 |
| 12 | 66 |
| 13 | 71 |
| 14 | 75 |
| 15 | 80 |
| 16 | 85 |
How Long Do Vizslas Live in Human Years?
The average lifespan of the Vizsla is 12.9 years. In human years, the Vizsla lives for 70 years.
How Old is 3-year-old Vizsla in Human Years?
A 3-year old Vizsla is 26 years old in human years.
How Old is 4-year-old Vizsla in Human Years?
A 4-year old Vizsla is 32 years old in human years.
How Old is 5-year-old Vizsla in Human Years?
A 5-year old Vizsla is 37 years old in human years.
How Old is 11-year-old Vizsla in Human Years?
A 11-year old Vizsla is 62 years old in human years.
More Ways to Make Your Vizsla Live Long
Here are more things your can do to make sure your Vizsla live a long life:
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Regular Exercise: Research studies have shown that one of the very effective ways to make a dog live long is to ensure that a dog is in good shape. Adequate exercise will make your Vizsla fit and make it live longer.
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Good Diet: A poorly-fed, underweight Vizsla does not have a good chance of living a long life. Similarly, an overweight Vizsla will have a shorter lifespan than a Vizsla that is of normal weight. Therefore, it is important that your feed your Vizsla high-quality dog food without overfeeding your Vizsla. Check out our Vizsla feeding guide here. Learn how you can prevent your Vizsla from being overweight here.
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Proper Hydration: Water is essential for your Vizsla existence. Therefore, you should make sure your Vizsla has access to clean water whenever your Vizsla needs water. However, too much water is bad for your Vizsla. See our Vizsla water drinking guide to learn more on how to properly hydrate your Vizsla.
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Spaying/Neutering: Sterilizing your Vizsla might prolong its life. Check out this guideline to know when it is the best time to spay/neuter your Vizsla.
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Routine Vet Care: Regular preventative visits to the vet can help catch diseases early.
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Vaccinations: Always make sure your Vizsla is up to date on its vaccination.
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Dental Hygiene: Your Vizsla’s teeth can get infected, and if the infection goes unnoticed, that infection can spread to other parts of the body and become systemic. This could lead to a shortened lifespan. You must have your Vizsla teeth cleaned professionally at your vet’s office a couple of times in its lifetime. Talk with your vet about the best ages to have these cleanings done.
Conclusion on Vizsla Life Expectancy
We hope the information we have provided will help your in increasing your Vizsla`s life expectancy.
Tate Ackerman contributed to this article. Tate is a second-year veterinary student at Kansas State University. Tate is also a concurrent Ph.D. student. She has a lot of experience reading scientific literature and communicating that information to a non-veterinary audience. Tate was a veterinary technician for a companion animal practice before she applied to veterinary school.