Polymyopathy

VIZSLA MUSCLE DISEASE

There is a recently recognised disease in the Hungarian Vizsla. It is a breed associated muscle disorder known as “Vizsla Inflammatory Polymyopathy”  VIP for short. The principal clinical signs are

  • swallowing problems
  • regurgitation
  • excessive foamy drooling and
  • muscle wasting (especially around the head)

The VIZSLA HEALTH WEBSITE describes the disease in more detail

Those researching the Disease need to hear from any vizsla owner, breeder or vet that has had experience of the condition. Please make CONTACT

VIP - Website
VIP - for Vets
Get In Touch
Spice muscle wasting
spice drool
bailey chair

DNA RESEARCH

There is a scheme to collect saliva samples from affected dogs and their relatives. See this open PEDIGREE REGISTRY Certain control samples are also required

The aim is to develop a genetic screening tool that might help predict the risk of VIP. This would  inform breeding decisions and reduce disease incidence.

What is desperately needed is for all owners to make CONTACT to say “my vizsla’s pedigree name is XXX – would his/her sample be useful for the research” All communications are dealt with swiftly – and in strictest confidence.

Sample collection is quick and easy . All participants are provided with everything that is required and there are no costs to the owner. Even the postage is prepaid.

Genetic Research
DNA Collection
Open Register

BREEDING GUIDELINES

In their 2021 BREED HEALTH AND CONSERVATION PLAN, the Kennel Club pointed to the Geneticist’s advice that breeding from first degree relatives of VIP Affected dogs be avoided. This advice is also fully supported by the Breed Health Coordinator and Joint Health Panel – representing both Hungarian Vizsla Club and Hungarian Vizsla Society interests. In early 2025 the JHP also asked for the introduction of an online tool to more readily identify first and second degree relatives of VIP Affected dogs

Breeding Guidelines to reduce VIP risk can be found on the VIZSLA HEALTH WEBSITE

VIP Breeding Advice
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