The Vizsla's ancestors were hunters and companions for the Magyar, a nomadic tribe that eventually settled in what is now known as Hungary. He is believed to be descended from the ancient Transylvanian Hound and the now-extinct Turkish yellow dog. Later, the German Shorthaired Pointer and Pointer were added. The Vizsla is most associated with the Puszta region in Hungary, a central area with diverse agriculture and a variety of game. Life in this vast terrain helped to create a dog with a superior nose and hunting ability suited to all weather extremes.

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The breed suffered greatly after World War II, almost becoming extinct. Owning a Vizsla was considered a bastion of aristocracy, something that was not favored by the Russians who took control of Hungary after the war. Much of the modern breed is based on dogs taken out of the country by owners who emigrated to other areas in Europe and abroad.

When the Vizsla arrived in the United States during the 1950s, hunters were impressed with his hunting prowess, particularly his stamina in hot weather. An all-rounder, he searched diligently, not ranging too far, marking and retrieving from land and water. Paired with his friendly disposition, he was easy to keep as a family companion, too