Borzoi comes from the Russian word ‘Borzii” which means swift. Up until 1936, these dogs were called Russian Wolfhounds in America and then later changed to Borzoi due to their Russian roots.
Physical Traits
Area of Origin: Russia
Used for: Companionship, hunting
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Color: Black, White, Tan, Grey with Black or Golden markings
Coat: Long, silky, flat or wavy
Average Height: 26-18 inches
Average Weight: 75-105 pounds
Group: Hound
History and Domestication
These dogs were bred by Russian nobility for hundreds of years.
Borzoi was developed by crossing long haired Russian sheepdogs with Arabian Greyhound. Until 1936, the breed was known as Russian Wolfhounds in America.
They are very swift hunters and were used to hunt foxes, wolves and hares inn open planes in Russia. As the breed gain popularity, they became extensively used for company while becoming more docile.
Standard Physical Characteristics
These dogs resemble Greyhounds in shape. The Borzoi has a slightly narrow and domed head with no stop. The muzzle is long and slightly arched. The nose is black and large. Ears are small and laid back towards the head while the dark eyes have a slant to them. The chest is narrow and deep and the back line is arched upwards. The tail lies low with a slight curve. Hair present on tail, hindquarters and neck is relatively longer.
Care, Grooming and Health
The long and silky coat is very easy to groom. Use a firm bristle brush for brushing and shampoo when necessary. For such a tall dog, bathing might pose a problem but it isn’t required very often. The breed sheds heavily but seasonally.
These dogs need their daily exercise including long daily walks and sometimes running off the leash. But they shoot off once they see a prey so you need to be extra careful with them. They also make up for excellent jogging companion and will be happy to run alongside your bicycle.
This breed is prone to bloating so avoid heavy meals. Give them two or three small meals a day. Also avoid exercise after their meals. They are also very sensitive to drugs.
Living Conditions
If sufficiently exercised, Borzoi will d okay in an apartment. They are quite inactive indoors and sometimes can be so peaceful and quiet that you might not even notice their presence. In the open, they need space to walk and run, so an average sized yard will be required.
Temperament
Borzoi has a sweet and friendly temperament. They are intelligent and loyal dogs. They can be trained in obedience but being hounds, they are relatively less eager to please their masters than other breeds. However, they are very intelligent and quick learners. They need leaders who can show natural authority over them and can train them in a gentle, firm but consistent manner. They often appear cat-like but keep themselves clean. They are very quiet dogs and do not bark much. Like other sighthounds, they have very little territorial instincts.
