Vizslas have evolved significantly from their origins as Magyar hunting dogs more than a thousand years ago. While their inquisitiveness, loyalty, and endurance have remained consistent, they balance that toughness with a gentle, loving, and peaceful demeanor at home. They are well-behaved around others, and fortunately, they do not bark excessively when properly trained and socialized.
Training is essential because Vizslas can become quite vocal when they feel uneasy or lack discipline. If you are concerned about the noise level from your Vizsla, there are various ways to reduce their barking. Let’s explore whether Vizslas bark a lot and the reasons why they may choose to vocalize.
Do Vizslas Bark a Lot?
Vizslas are generally not excessive barkers. When trained and socialized well, they typically use their voice purposefully and sparingly, a favorable trait from their background as gun dogs.
However, it’s true that all dogs have individual personalities. Some Vizslas can remain silent even amidst commotion, while others may whimper, whine, and bark at minor stimuli.
Vizslas are intelligent and may express themselves vocally when trying to get their way. As “Velcro dogs,” they can be quite needy and may prefer whining as a means of communication. Over time, they might bark more frequently as they mature and find their own voice.
Why Do Vizslas Bark?
Vizslas bark to express discomfort, provide a warning, or communicate a need. They are not typically aggressive or threatening towards people or other pets and usually bark only in response to a perceived threat or irritation.
An excessively vocal Vizsla may have a unique personality trait that you will need to manage. In many cases, you can take steps to decrease the barking, starting with identifying the reasons behind your Vizsla’s vocalization. Here are some common causes of barking in Vizslas.
1. Alertness
With their protective nature, many Vizslas will bark if they sense someone encroaching on their owner’s territory. Activities such as a doorbell ringing or someone passing close to a window may trigger this alertness and prompt barking to notify you of nearby movement.
Despite this behavior, Vizslas do not make ideal guard dogs. While they are known for their curiosity, energy, and distractibility, they are generally mild-mannered around unfamiliar individuals and animals. Their bark is usually the extent of their aggression, making them better suited as watchdogs. In the event of an intruder, a Vizsla is more likely to greet them warmly rather than show aggression.
2. Separation
Separation anxiety is not uncommon in Vizslas, given their affectionate nature and desire to be close to their human companions. They are not well-suited for extended periods alone. When left outdoors for prolonged periods, they may become restless and anxious, often resorting to barking at the door out of frustration.
Barking during separation outdoors is a natural response to stress and serves as a form of communication. When in an unfamiliar environment, Vizslas are more likely to bark sooner, while if left crated at home before you head to work, they may whimper continuously instead.
Barking can occur within the crate, particularly in response to external stimuli that may be perceived as threatening or intriguing. However, like many other dogs, Vizslas will often bark as a form of protest rather than due to loneliness. With consistent training, you can often teach your Vizsla to remain relatively quiet within their crate.
3. Fear
Nothing triggers a Vizsla’s barking quite like a frightening thunderclap. Vizslas do not easily acclimate to infrequent and sudden loud noises, abrupt movements, or other startling stimuli, leading them to bark out of fear.
An unsocialized Vizsla is more likely to bark out of fear in response to everyday stimuli. Unfamiliar sounds or objects are more likely to provoke a reaction, as are interactions in public. Exposing your dog to various experiences can help them learn appropriate responses in new situations.
4. Boredom
Vizslas are highly energetic dogs. They are easily distracted, quick to chase, and brimming with energy. Providing them with ample exercise outside the home and engaging them mentally indoors is crucial. They need plenty of toys and activities to keep them occupied to prevent undesirable behaviors.
An unfulfilled and bored Vizsla can resort to destructive behaviors. Typically, if they bark, it is often a precursor to signaling that they require attention.
5. Excitement
Vizslas may bark during playtime or even when merely thinking about playing. For instance, barking in obedience classes is a common occurrence when a Vizsla is eager to interact with other dogs but is restrained. They might bark out of anticipation when seeing a leash being prepared for a walk or upon your return from work.
How to Prevent Your Vizsla from Barking
Socialization and adequate exercise are crucial for any dog and can significantly reduce your Vizsla’s barking. Given their calm nature, they are less likely to bark out of unnecessary aggression, making it easier to help them navigate potentially stressful situations. More exposure to other dogs and novel stimuli can decrease their tendency to bark out of fear or alertness.
Distraction
Preventing undesired actions can lessen your dog’s inclination to engage in those behaviors. If your dog becomes agitated and prepares to bark as someone approaches the door, redirect their attention with a command like “come” or divert their focus to a toy. By shifting their attention away from barking, you can help them break the habit.
Ignore the Behavior
Attention-seeking is a common cause of barking in Vizslas. To avoid reinforcing this behavior, it is crucial to ignore the barking. Turn away, walk away, and act uninterested. Once the barking ceases, you can acknowledge and reward your dog for being quiet.
While you should disregard the barking behavior, it’s essential to address the underlying cause. For instance, if your Vizsla is barking at night because they need to go outside, you cannot simply ignore them and expect the issue to resolve itself.
When you cannot ignore the reason behind the barking, avoid rewarding it. For example, late-night bathroom breaks should be swift and unceremonious. By understanding the trigger for barking, you can address it proactively.
Training at Home
Training your Vizsla to be comfortable in a crate and teaching them basic commands can help address specific causes of barking. By creating a sense of security and familiarity in the crate, you can help your dog adjust to your absence and reduce anxiety-related barking.
Establish positive associations with the crate and gradually increase the time your dog spends alone while crated. Initially, they may whine or whimper, but with time, they can adapt to being alone for extended periods.
Commands can also address frustration-induced barking by teaching your Vizsla patience and manners. Whether it’s wanting to play with other dogs or reacting to something interesting, they may bark in protest if they feel denied something they desire. Commands such as “come” or “sit” enable you to redirect your dog’s attention when they become agitated or excited. Additionally, teaching a “quiet” command can help them learn to stop barking on cue.
Professional Training
If your efforts to reduce your Vizsla’s barking prove ineffective, consider seeking assistance from a professional trainer. A trainer can provide the necessary guidance for your dog and offer you support in reinforcing positive behaviors at home. Professional training can also serve as a valuable socialization opportunity. Given the Vizsla’s trainability, you are likely to see prompt and consistent results.
Final Thoughts
Vizslas exhibit grace and amiability around others, resulting in a relatively modest level of barking. Nevertheless, they can find reasons to vocalize, whether it’s someone approaching your property or a lack of attention. By understanding the triggers for your Vizsla’s barking and providing appropriate attention and training, you can help them remain calm and quiet.
Featured Image Credit: anetapics, Shutterstock
