| Breed
Group:
Hounds |
| Weight:
male: 75-105, female: 60-85 lbs |
| Height:
male: at least 28, female: at least 26 inches |
| Color(s):
any |
| 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. |
| 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. |
| 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. |
