Borzoi Breed Information
Breed Group: Hound
Weight: Male: 75-105; Female: 60-85 lbs
Height: Male: 28; Female: 26 inches
Color(s): any
Overview
The Borzoi was originally named the Russian Wolfhound. They are a sight hound that relies on their agility and speed. They were highly prized and revered by nobles and aristocracy, but could not be purchased. They could only be given as gifts from the Czar.
Character
The Borzoi is a tall and aristocratic breed. They are considered to be the embodiment of elegance and grace. They exude noble tranquility, reticence, and confidence. They are a docile and devoted companion. The Borzoi displays exceptional talents in hunting, sighting, and lure coursing.
Temperament
The Borzoi is proud, sweet, and alert. They are extremely loyal to their family, and affectionate to people well known to them. They are aloof to strangers. They are quiet, well behaved, and seldom bark. For this reason they are not good watchdogs. They are not recommended for homes with small children, cats, or other small pets. They do well with other medium or large sized dogs they have been raised with. They are also terrific companions for older considerate children. The Borzoi is very slow to mature. They are not well suited for a two career family as they suffer depression and separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods of time. They are extremely sensitive, intelligent, and free thinking.
Care
The Borzoi is relatively easy to groom. They need to be brushed regularly with a firm bristle brush and dry shampooed when needed. It is important to keep the hair on the pads trimmed to prevent splaying. Borzois are generally a healthy breed however they are prone to progressive retinal atrophy. They also have an extremely low tolerance to anesthetic and have a tendency to bloat.
Coat
The Borzoi has a unique and wonderfully patterned coat. It is silky and of moderate length with a thick plush under that fits closely to the body. They have a profuse neck mane, longer thick coat on the tail and back of hind legs. The coat is dirt shedding and resistant to matting, and may be flat, wavy, or curly. The Borzoi comes in a variety of colors such as white, golden, and tan or gray with black markings. These colors may be mixed or solid. They are heavy shedders.
Training
The Borzoi is considered a giant breed and is not a breed that will fit into every household. As sight-hounds they require constant attention and restraint. They require basic obedience and socialization. They excel in agility. They do not respond to harsh or heavy-handed training methods. They are relatively easy to housetrain since they prefer to be clean. The Borzoi requires calm, patient, and consistent guidance with mutual respect.
Activity
The Borzoi requires an inordinate amount of exercise. They make excellent jogging and walking companions provided they are very securely leashed. They are relatively inactive indoors but will become bored and destructive if left alone for extended periods of time. They need plenty of space to run in a large securely fenced yard. They are able to adapt to apartment dwelling provided they are sufficiently
exercised.