Best Dog Foods For Vizsla: Puppies, Adults & Seniors

The Vizsla is considered one of the best hunting dogs in the world. Known as the Hungarian Pointer, he is an active breed that needs the right fuel for whatever job he’s doing. From hunting birds and squirrels to cuddling with the family on the sofa, basic food is not going to cut it. But with all the food options out there, where exactly do you start?

The world of canine nutrition is complex enough to give anyone a headache. And that’s why we have created this guide to the best dog foods for Vizslas. We provide you with all the foodie facts and how nutritional needs differ during each of the three life stages. From what you should focus on down to the ingredients to look for, you’ll know exactly what nutrition he needs.

Then, we review the best foods on the market for you to choose from. There is something here for every Vizsla at every stage of life.

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Vizsla Puppy Nutrient Needs

The Vizsla has a lot of development to get through to grow into those big ears of his. To help him along his way, he needs high-quality food to give him the fuel. Regular food does not contain the ingredients to develop into the healthiest adult he can be. Feeding your pup the best nutrition you can afford can make all the difference to his health. And although it might cost a little more, it can save you a lot on vet bills in the long run.

At maturity, the Vizsla weighs between 44 and 60 pounds, making him a medium to large-sized dog breed. Dog breeds fall into the large category when they are 50 pounds or more. Large breed dog food contains optimized calcium, phosphorus, vitamin D, and fat levels to control bone growth and support joints. And with the Vizsla being so active and the fact that he is predisposed to hip dysplasia, it is recommended that he eats puppy food designed for large breeds.

One of the main nutrients that pups need is healthy omega fats, and they are essential to puppy development. Particularly docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and arachidonic acid (ARA), as they are naturally found in mothers’ milk. They ensure his eyes and brain develop properly. And they’ll support vitamin and mineral absorption, improve his coat health, and increase overall wellness. Ingredients such as fish, meat meals, eggs, and flaxseed are great sources.

Another important element of puppy food is protein. Protein provides him with the amino acids needed for growth. Essentially, amino acids are the building blocks of all living things. According to the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO), puppies need a minimum protein content of 22%. The first ingredient in any high-quality food should always be meat. Meat meals are just as good as standard meats as they are simply concentrated protein. Plus, they are rich in glucosamine which is important for joint health.

Adult Vizsla Nutrient Needs

You should transition your Vizsla to adult food between the ages of 12 to 15 months. Although he isn’t fully mature yet, he has completed most of his development by then. For extra digestive support, look for probiotic ingredients such as dried lactobacillus casei fermentation products. They encourage friendly bacteria in the gut.

During adulthood, AAFCO recommends that the minimum protein content needed is 18%. Adulthood is all about a balanced diet. Look for fruits, vegetables, and vitamin and mineral supplements as these support his immune system. Healthy carbohydrates, be that grains or vegetables such as sweet potato and pumpkin, are needed for energy. Healthy omega fats are still crucial for coat health and overall wellness.

Senior Vizsla Nutrient Needs

When your Vizsla reaches the ages of seven to eight years, he needs to be transitioned to senior food. Like before, be sure to do so slowly to avoid stomach upset. All dogs reach their senior stage at different times. When you notice that your pup starts to slow down both physically and mentally and/or gets a bit chunkier than normal, it’s probably time to switch.

Senior dogs need the same (if not more) goodness than before, without the added calories and fats. The fiber content in senior formulas is often boosted as they are low in calories and help pups feel fuller for longer. Continue to feed him high-quality products as these have higher levels of glucosamine and chondroitin to support old joints. Look for ingredients such as meat meals, fish, oils, green-lipped mussels, cartilage, and other organs as they are rich in glucosamine.

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Best Food For Vizsla Puppies

Puppies are usually weaned off their mothers’ milk at around six weeks old. You’ll need to have his new food ready and waiting for when you bring him home. If you wish to give him a different option than what the breeder fed him, transition him slowly. Here are five of the best foods for Vizsla puppies.

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Blue Buffalo has a wide variety of ranges and formulas, and this is our top choice for the Vizsla pup. The Life Protection recipe for large breeds offers a well-balanced formula and a protein content of 26%. Deboned chicken and chicken meal are the first two ingredients, and fish meal and egg products boost the DHA and ARA supply.

This is a grain-inclusive recipe that lists wholesome brown rice and gentle oatmeal. Making this an easy-to-digest recipe that most pups love. These ingredients contribute to the high fiber content, which can lower gas and prevent the seemingly endless puppy snack hunting. Cranberries, blueberries, and dried kelp are nutrient-dense ingredients that keep his immunity strong.

We love that this recipe has the joint-highest omega-three fatty acid content. Making it a great option for developing pups or those who have dry skin as it nourishes it from the inside out.

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Nutro is known for making high-quality budget-friendly recipes. This formula is also made from non-GMO ingredients, making it a clean and green recipe too. Deboned lamb and chicken meal are the first two ingredients, offering various amino acids of healthy development. And with lamb meal and fish oil, he gets lots of DHA and ARA too for eye and cognitive development.

In addition to the omega fats, vitamin E, biotin, and folic acid help keep his beautiful red coat soft and shiny. Rice, peas, and bran supply energy and are healthy sources of carbs and fiber. There are many vitamins and mineral supplements present, too, so every bite provides immunity strength. Prebiotic fiber is listed, and dried beet pulp and pumpkin aid digestion.

We love that this recipe is made with a variety of antioxidant-rich ingredients, including chia seed, coconut, pumpkin, kale, and spinach. It has lots of vitamins and minerals to support immunity development.

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Sure, this recipe is not specifically designed for large breed puppies. But, it ticks all of the large breed boxes. Plus, it’s super tasty, and large breeds like the Vizsla are bound to love this kibble. Taste of the Wild is known for its simple yet very nutritional recipes. The protein content of this formula is 27%, and the ingredient list starts with salmon and ocean fish meal. Smoked salmon, salmon meal, and salmon oil mean lots of joint support too.

This is a grain-free formula that uses sweet potatoes and peas for slow-release energy. This recipe has a high fiber content which helps with digestive support. Plus, it also lists many probiotic ingredients that promote friendly bacteria in the gut. Blueberries and raspberries provide the antioxidants needed for a healthy oxidative state too.

We love that this recipe is made with fish as the only protein source. It is free from all other types of meat which makes this an alternative for dogs that are allergic to other common meats. Plus, it’s super tasty.

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Wellness is a brand that is also known for its high-quality recipes, and this is their large breed puppy recipe from their Complete Health range. This means a well-balanced diet and all the healthy omega fats that a puppy needs for best development. This option has the joint-highest omega-three fatty acid content, so his coat and skin are well cared for too.

This recipe provides chicken, chicken meal, and salmon meal, so it’s super tasty. Prebiotic fiber and probiotic ingredients ensure that gastrointestinal health is supported. Nutritious peas, brown rice, and gentle oatmeal supply energy and fiber. Carrots, spinach, apples, and blueberries ensure that his immunity develops well and keeps him fighting fit.

We love that this recipe has the highest protein content. This is a great option for growing puppies and healthy muscle maintenance. Plus, it’s a big hit with fussy pups who love the big, meaty taste.

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There aren’t many pet owners in the world that haven’t heard of Purina Pro. This option is designed for large breed puppies, and it starts with real chicken that dogs love. The protein content is 28%, and it is further boosted by eggs and fish meal that are also rich in DHA and ARA. In addition to these fats, biotin and folic acid are listed, which are both great for coat health.

This is another grain-inclusive recipe that uses rice and corn. Some super sensitive Vizslas might find rice and corn a little bit irritating on their stomach. But every bite of kibble guarantees live microorganisms thanks to probiotic ingredients, which supports friendly bacteria to do what they need to do in the gut. This option has the highest amount of calories per cup, making it a great option for super bouncy pups.

We love that this recipe is made with chicken and rice, a combination that most dogs love. It is also fortified with live probiotic ingredients for extra digestive support.

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Best Food For Adult Vizsla

Between the ages of 12 to 15 months, you need to think about switching your dog from puppy food to an adult one. Be sure to transition him according to the package instructions, even if you continue with the same food line. Otherwise, you risk stomach upset. Here are our top picks for adult Vizslas.

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The Farmer’s Dog is our top pick for best dog food for adults. This fresh food contains human-grade ingredients, so you could eat it (if you wanted to). All fresh ingredients ensure that your dog’s coat stays shiny and his large muscles are kept strong and healthy. Each meal is customized specifically for your Vizsla and designed by vets based on your dog’s specific needs. To get more bang for your buck, mix in homecooked rice, which helps get some grains in their diet too.

Prepared in a USDA-certified kitchen, these recipes please even the most discerning palate. In addition to high-quality meats, your dog enjoys the gentle fibers, such as sweet potatoes and lentils, that encourage digestion and healthy gut flora.

We love that these fresh meal plans are customized for your dog’s weight, activity level, level of pickiness, and any special dietary needs. It’s an excellent option that guarantees your dog is eating the freshest, highest-quality, well-balanced meal available.

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This is the adult version of the Nutro puppy recommendation. So, if your pup loved this option, he should do well on it as an adult. Like before, the first two ingredients are deboned lamb and chicken meal. The protein content in this option is the lowest on our list, but it still exceeds the recommendation of AAFCO. Making this option is ideal for those who cannot digest meaty recipes.

This formula is great because it lists tons of nutrient-dense ingredients such as chia seed, coconut, pumpkin, kale, and spinach. These provide plenty of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals for a healthy immune system. Plus, pumpkin is a prebiotic fiber that is known for its soothing digestive qualities. This is a grain-inclusive recipe that uses brown rice and oatmeal.

We love that this recipe is packed full of immunity support thanks to the superfoods listed above, along with the vitamin and mineral supplements.

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This recipe is made by Victor, who is known for using great quality ingredients. The first ingredient is beef meal, and this is the only meat source. It is simpler to digest, and it appeals to those seeking a non-chicken recipe. This kibble is fortified with an exclusive blend of probiotic ingredients, offering another digestive boost—this is an excellent option for those with sensitive stomachs.

This recipe is made with gluten-free grains, which is another unique selling point. Brown rice and alfalfa meal are listed, and they are both fibrous and nutritious. Organic dried seaweed meal is also listed, which is packed full of calcium and other minerals for strong, healthy bones. Taurine can also be found in the ingredients list, which is fantastic for cardiac health.

We love that this recipe is chicken-free, making it a great alternative to most other chicken-based kibbles. Made with tasty beef meal, it appeals to all meat-loving Vizslas out there.

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This pick follows on from the puppy recommendation. If your dog loved this option as a puppy, he is sure to love this adult version. Like before, the first two ingredients are deboned chicken and chicken meal, which amount to a protein content of 22%, ideal for muscle maintenance and this breed’s high energy lifestyle. Fish oil, flaxseed, and other chelated minerals support joints and bones.

In addition to the kibble pieces, Blue Buffalo has included their exclusive LifeSource Bits into the mix. These are made from superfoods optimized for large breed health. Plus, they add a different texture to the bowl. Blueberries, cranberries, dried kelp, and turmeric are rich in antioxidants for a healthy oxidative state. And with probiotic ingredients, his gastrointestinal tract should digest this food with ease.

We love that this recipe has the highest fiber content. It’s a top choice for Vizslas, who are always on the hunt for their next snack.

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Finally, we have included a limited ingredient diet for adult Vizslas as they are known for their sensitive stomachs. Natural Balance is known for producing some of the best limited-ingredient diets around. This one is designed for large breeds, and the sole protein ingredients are lamb and lamb meal. Lamb is surprisingly lean and full of amino acids. This recipe is another chicken-free option too.

Wholesome brown rice is the main grain, along with a few others that are gluten-free. Linoleic acid found in sunflower oil, along with biotin, folic acid, and vitamin E, nourishes your pup’s coat from the inside out. There are plenty of added vitamin and mineral supplements added to make this simple recipe complete.

We love that this limited ingredient diet is a great choice for Vizslas, who need a simple recipe for easy digestion.

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Best Food For Senior Vizslas

Your canine needs to be transitioned to a senior food between the years of seven and eight. He is likely to need much less energy, not only because he isn’t as active anymore. But also because his metabolism starts to slow down. Here are the best foods for senior Vizslas.

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This is not designed specifically for large breeds, but it has all the nutrients that large breed seniors need. The first two ingredients are deboned chicken and chicken meal, which provide a protein content of 22%. Chicken meal and a glucosamine supplement provide a high glucosamine content, which supports the tired joints of your pooch for sure.

This is a grain-inclusive option that uses gentle oatmeal and barley. All of the ingredients are made from non-GMO ingredients, which is great for your pooch and the environment. Taurine is added for cardiac support. Carrots, apples, blueberries, and spinach ensure that his immune system is reinforced with all the antioxidant goodness it needs.

We love that this recipe is fortified with lots of different probiotics. Your senior Vizsla should have no issue with his aging digestive system, thanks to this formula.

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This is the only option that we have chosen for every life stage. If your pup has spent all of his years on this product, this is the obvious choice for him. The first ingredient is deboned chicken, with chicken meal listed too. These amount to a protein content of 20%, which is ideal for older pups who cannot digest rich formulas.

The glucosamine content here is also relatively high, thanks to meat meals, fish oil, and added supplements. Like before, this is a grain-inclusive recipe that includes wholesome brown rice for slow-release energy. L-carnitine ensures that his metabolism is supported too to prevent weight gain. And superfoods, antioxidants, and healthy fats are added to their senior LifeSource Bits.

We love that this is a high-fiber diet. This is a top choice for Vizslas, who are forever begging for snacks but aren’t moving enough to burn it off. It also helps with stool health too.

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This option is not specifically designed for large breeds, but it meets all large breed requirements. The protein content is 27%, making it the second-highest on this senior list. This healthy diet fools greedy dogs into thinking it’s super meaty and naughty. Beef meal is the first ingredient, and Menhaden fish meal is listed further down in the ingredients list.

This healthy recipe also has a high glucosamine content which is great for the Vizsla, who has led an energetic lifestyle. Blood meal, organic seaweed meal, and a long list of other vitamins and minerals ensure that his immune system can fight illnesses in his senior years. This recipe is fortified with naturally occurring microorganisms which are great for his digestive tract.

We love that this recipe is the best option for Vizslas, who need to manage their healthy weight thanks to optimized nutrition.

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This is the only grain-free recipe that we have chosen for Vizsla’s senior life stage. So, if he has always managed well on a grain-free diet, this is likely to be the best choice for him. Sweet potatoes and peas are used instead, providing slow-release energy and prebiotic fiber for a steady digestive system. His immunity is also supported thanks to apples, blueberries, and other vitamin and mineral supplements.

The protein content is 30%, which is relatively rich for a senior pup. But if he prefers meaty meals or is still active and needs muscle maintenance, this is a great option. This formula includes a trio of proteins, including deboned chicken, turkey meal, and salmon meal. Each kibble piece is fortified in healthy omega fats and probiotics for overall wellness and gut health.

We love that this recipe offers a very high glucosamine content so that his joints are well cared for.

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Hill’s Science Diet is created by scientists who have studied the nutritional needs of dogs aged seven years and over. This recipe focuses on keeping his cognitive function active thanks to powerful antioxidants. The first ingredient is real chicken, and it offers a balanced protein content of 19%. Flaxseed, fish oil, and biotin keep joints supple and his coat nourished from the inside out.

Carrots, spinach, and added vitamin and mineral supplements keep him fighting fit, as well as feeling younger, thanks to creating a healthy oxidative state. This is a grain-inclusive recipe that uses a wide range of grains for slow-release energy. L-carnitine also helps to stimulate his metabolism. Taurine is also added for the management of cardiac health, which is important in his later years.

We love that this recipe is designed to keep your aging Vizsla full of life and vitality, thanks to the youth-preserving goodness.

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Final Thoughts

So, Vizsla moms and dads, you’ve reached the end of your nutritional journey. Following his different life stages and what nutrients he needs in each, you now have the information you need to ensure the food in his bowl is the best. Be sure to consider his own dietary requirements if he has any. But by picking from our recommendations above, you can be sure that he loves what you put in his bowl. Plus, it’ll save you a whole bunch of time and countless headaches. But most importantly, it ensures that your Vizsla is as healthy as nutritionally possible.