Better than a Labrador – dog trainer names loyal breed

A professional dog trainer has shared a breed he’s branded “better than a Labrador”, describing them as “incredibly affectionate” and “highly trainable”.

Countless people all over the world are keen to add a four-legged friend to their families, and dogs are among the most popular pets on the planet.

Choosing the right breed to suit your lifestyle is incredibly important, as not all dogs have the same wants and needs, or personality traits.

Labradors are a top choice for many families thanks to their friendly, outgoing yet gentle natures, and their high intelligence.

One dog trainer has shared an alternative, though – the Hungarian vizsla. Similarly affectionate and intelligent, they’re a very energetic breed that requires an active home to bring out the best in them. If they’re not properly stimulated, it can lead to destructive behaviour.

Speaking on clinical canine behaviourist Will Atherton’s TikTok page – which has amassed hundreds of thousands of followers and millions of likes across its informative videos – expert trainer Ben began: “I get to work with lots of different breeds but one of my most favourite breeds of dogs to work with just has to be the Hungarian vizsla.”

He continued: “I personally think that a lot of people out there really like the idea of having a Labrador but maybe a Labrador is a little bit too boring because they’re so common, so what we do instead is, we go out and get a vizsla because they just look a little bit more fun and interesting.”

Ben went on to list traits owners will be able to enjoy in a vizsla that they “won’t get” in a Labrador, like “intensity” and “so much more drive”.

The dog trainer explained vizslas are part of a “collection” of breeds which are known as “hunt, point, retrieve”, or rather, “HPR dogs”. They’re “gun dogs” and “hunting dogs” who were “bred to do multiple different jobs on the hunt”.

Ben described vizslas as “super, super driven” and “motivated” which is a “huge strength when it comes to hunting” but can be a “weakness” in some more casual “pet” settings, as they require owners who are committed to training them.

They thrive on “structure” and “clarity” and when that’s put in place through consistent, proper training, “you then start to see all of the good in a Hungarian vizsla”.

The expert said vizslas are also “really well known as a velcro dog”, as when they have bonded with their owner, they will be “stuck to you like glue”.

He added: “They give the best cuddles, they’re super floppy and lovely – and they just want to get right up in your grills.”

In the caption accompanying the video, Ben elaborated: “One of my favourite breeds has to be the vizsla.

“They’ve got that same intelligence and drive people love in Labradors, but with a slightly different edge. For the right person, they can be a brilliant alternative.

“They’re incredibly affectionate, highly trainable, and love having a job to do… but they do need structure, guidance, and plenty of exercise to really thrive.”

He did advise caution though, adding: “If you’re considering a Labrador but want something a little different, a vizsla might be worth looking into.

“Just make sure you’re ready to meet their needs properly.”