Borzoi

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The Borzoi is known as the Russian wolfhound and is closely related to the family of greyhounds. This is indeed evident in the shape of its head and body. The borzoi is a large dog breed with a longhaired coat. It is slender and muscular at the same time. Besides being an excellent hunting dog it is also a devoted and loyal family dog. In addition it is one of the healthiest breeds, there is.

Character and behaviour
It is a friendly and intelligent dog. They are particularly devoted to people they know very well. It is important to socialise a borzoi as early in their life as possible. Otherwise they tend to chase small animals such as cats, rabbits and guinea pigs. The borzoi is not suitable for families with small children, but with the right amount of training it will be able to live in a family with kids.

The training of a borzoi requires a good portion of patience, as it is a very independent dog. Obedience needs to be obtained through trust and you are likely to meet a stubborn dog, which needs to be met with respect and dignity.

Furthermore, it is a quiet dog, which rarely bark. In addition, it is extremely fast and should not be trusted off the leash.

History of the breed
The breed originates from Russia, where the Russian nobility bred them by crossing the Arab greyhound with other longhaired Russian sheep dogs. Through the ages it has been used for hunting rabbits, foxes and wolfs. In 1650 the first description of the breed was manifested. However, the borzoi that we know today was not developed until 100 years ago. Most of today’s borzois stem from the world famous kennel Perchino.

Appearance, grooming, and health
The borzoi has a long narrow head, which is slightly domed. It has dark, large almond shaped eyes. The ears are small and hang down. Its back arches upward and it has a narrow chest. The tail is set low and at the same time long, thin and curved while hanging.

The borzoi is 28-31 inches tall and weighs 75-110 Lbs.

Its coat is long and silky and either smooth or wavy. It is available in many different colour variations, also self-coloured. Despite of the longhaired coat, minimal grooming is necessary. The borzoi needs regularly brushing and at times a bath, e.g. with dry shampoo. Moreover, the hair between its toes needs clipping regularly. The breed is a heavy shedder at times.

The borzoi is prone to bloat thus large meals should be avoided. Instead it should eat two or three small meals a day. And exercise right after a meal should also be avoided. This breed is in addition sensitive to medicine.

What you should know about the breed:

• Possible to keep in an apartment if exercised sufficiently.
• Will be a great running companion.
• Tends to run off if he spots a potential prey.
• Inventiveness and creativity are necessary in obedience training.
• Prefers staying in furniture.