VCA Code of Ethics

Introduction

The Vizsla is a unique canine athlete. Both a superior family dog and a true hunting companion, the Vizsla readily accepts the role of protector and friend. Intelligent and biddable, Vizslas will perform any task asked of them.

After surviving countless wars and centuries of limited and selective breeding, the Vizsla was re-bred from near extinction and combines the finest in beauty, character, and hunting ability with a strong desire to please. The Vizsla is versatile and agile, running with effortless grace. Respect for this heritage demands that the breed should never be allowed to become less than the dog who still represents the National Dog of Hungary, a true “walking gentleman’s shooting dog.” The Vizsla should remain true to type whether in the show ring, field, water, competitive sports, or at home with the family, exemplifying the physical characteristics that have distinguished the breed for centuries.

Purpose

The VCA Code of Ethics (COE) serves as the foundation for responsible stewardship of the breed. It establishes standards for ethical conduct, sportsmanship, health-conscious breeding, and mentorship, with the ultimate goals of protecting the Vizsla’s health, temperament, working ability, and conformational excellence for future generations. Integrity, transparency, and a commitment to education and collaboration among breeders, owners, and enthusiasts are central to this Code.

Membership

The Vizsla Club of America (VCA) comprises a group of dedicated individuals united in their commitment to the preservation and proper management of the breed in the United States. New enthusiasts are warmly welcomed and encouraged to join the VCA and participate actively in its mission.

Sportsmanship

Members shall at all times conduct themselves in a manner that reflects positively upon themselves, their dogs, the Vizsla breed, the VCA, and the sport of purebred dogs. Members are expected to:

• Extend courtesy, encouragement, and mentorship to newcomers.
• Serve as positive ambassadors for the breed and the Club in all public interactions.
• Contribute to the Club through volunteer service on committees, at events, and in educational initiatives.

Social Medial & Online Conduct

Following a Code of Ethics for Social Media is an important step in creating a civil environment for everyone to ask questions and share their ideas. Members shall use social media and all online platforms responsibly, recognizing that their posts reflect upon the breed and the Club. Members are expected to:

• Post accurate, truthful information and avoid spreading rumors or misinformation.
• Communicate respectfully, refraining from personal attacks, offensive language, or divisive rhetoric, even when opinions differ.
• Consider the diverse audience that may encounter their posts and strive to be welcoming and inclusive.
• Clearly indicate whether a post represents fact, opinion, or commercial intent, and cite sources when appropriate.
• Accept constructive feedback graciously and correct errors promptly.
• Comply with all applicable laws and refrain from any form of harassment or bullying.

Adherence to these principles fosters a supportive online community and enhances the reputation of the Vizsla fancy.

Health Screening and Genetic Responsibility

The VCA is committed to preserving the long-term health and vitality of the Vizsla through rigorous, evidence-based health testing and responsible breeding practices that align with the official Breed Standard. Members shall utilize recommended screenings through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA), the Canine Health Information Center (CHIC), and other recognized registries, as detailed in the annually updated VCA Official Health Statement.

Members are encouraged to participate in approved research studies and clinical trials. Up-to-date resources on health testing and genetic conditions are maintained on the VCA website.

DNA Testing

As reliable DNA tests for inheritable conditions become available, members shall consider their judicious use. Decisions regarding testing should weigh disease severity, test accuracy, prevalence within the breed, and pedigree implications. The primary objective is to reduce the incidence of genetic disorders while preserving genetic diversity.

Breeding Principles

Members shall breed only Vizslas who:

• Closely conform to the AKC Vizsla Breed Standard.
• Exhibit sound structure, stable temperament, and natural hunting instinct.
• Have permanent identification. DNA is mandatory, and microchip is recommended. This profiling is not required for dogs deceased prior to 2007.
• Are free of serious disqualifying faults or known serious hereditary defects.

Members shall:

• Perform and maintain all current health tests required by the VCA Official Health Statement prior to breeding, including (but not limited to) OFA/PennHIP hips after 24 months of age, and an eye exam plus thyroid testing within one year of breeding. Pre-breeding brucellosis testing is highly recommended. In addition, elbow, cardiac, long-hair genes, and dwarfism testing are highly recommended.
• Disclose fully and honestly all known or suspected health, temperament, and genetic issues in the sire, dam, and pedigree to co-owners and prospective puppy buyers.
• Prioritize the reduction of serious hereditary disease while maintaining breed type, working ability, and genetic diversity.
• Place the welfare of the individual dog and the long-term health of the breed above all other considerations.

Sales and Placement

Prior to entering into a sales agreement, VCA members agree to the following:

• Refuse to breed, sell, or consign puppies or adult dogs to pet shops or ventures such as lotteries or raffles.
• Honestly evaluate the quality of the Vizsla sold, fairly represent that evaluation, and urge puppy purchasers not to breed dogs who, for any reason, should not be used for breeding.
• Wait to release puppies until they are eight weeks of age.
• Furnish details on feeding, care, inoculations, pedigrees, and written sales agreements. Members shall also keep accurate records as required by the AKC.
• Use AKC Limited Registration when appropriate and explain the policy to the puppy purchaser.
• Screen all prospective buyers to ensure puppies have safe, loving homes.
• Supply assistance and support to a puppy buyer for the life of the dog.
• Encourage owners to become involved in Vizsla activities, the VCA, and regional Vizsla specialty clubs.

Registration

Members are strongly encouraged to ensure that all puppies are individually registered with the American Kennel Club, either by completing registration themselves or by providing all necessary documentation and assistance to the buyer.

Rescue and Rehoming Commitment

Members accept lifelong responsibility for the welfare of Vizslas they have bred or co-owned. When circumstances require rehoming, members shall assist through fostering, financial support, or direct placement, and shall cooperate with recognized Vizsla rescue organizations or the VCA Welfare Foundation. By adhering to this Code of Ethics, members of the Vizsla Club of America affirm their dedication to the preservation, protection, and advancement of this noble breed.

Disclaimers

The opinions expressed herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the website coordinator, the Vizsla Club of America, its officers, directors or members.

The Vizsla Club of America will have no responsibility or liability for any claim arising in connection with any alleged or actual violation of the VCA’s Code of Ethics by advertisers in any VCA print or electronic publication or by other members of the VCA.

Though the VCA may publish registration numbers, ratings, listings, gradings or other identifying information provided by various other organizations, the VCA takes no responsibility for either their accuracy or the method from which they were derived.

The Code Of Ethics for breeders and owners of the Vizsla was accepted by the VCA Board of Directors and the general membership on October 24, 1992; then expanded November 2005 by VCA BoD and approved by the VCA Membership in October 2006. Revised in 2009, August 2011, September 2022, and August 2026.