Borzoi – Russian Walfhound

Borzoi – Russian Walfhound

A tall, elegant and dignified-looking dog that has a history of popularity with royal houses from Russia, throughout Europe and Great Britain.

History:

The Borzoi is most probably descended from the Greyhounds of ancient Egypt and cross-bred with the long-haired Russian sheep dog. The breed was fixed in Russia by the sixteenth century. The Borzoi was bred as a sight hound to hunt wolves in packs. The sight hound depends on seeing the prey rather than following a scent.

Physical characteristics:

The Borzoi is tall, slender, and has an imposing stature. Height: 29 - 32 in (73.7 - 81.3 cm) for the dog and 27 - 30 in (68.6 - 76.2 cm) for the bitch. Under Canadian standards, 28 - 32 in (71 - 81.3 cm) for the dog and 27 - 30 in (68.6 - 76.2 cm) for the bitch. Weight: is not standardized but approximately 70 - 80 lb (30 - 35 kg). The Borzoi's head is long and lean, with a slightly domed skull. The jaws are long, deep and powerful, with a scissor bite. The nose is fairly large and black. The eyes are almond-shaped, dark, obliquely set and well back.

The ears are small, fine, narrow and pointed, and are set high and back. The body has a gracefully rising arch from near the shoulders, with well-sprung ribs and a muscular croup. The legs are long and straight with well-muscled hindquarters. The tail is long, set low and well-feathered. The coat is short and smooth on the head, ears and front legs, with the neck having profuse curls. Long, silky, and profuse feathering on the body, hindquarters, and tail. The coat colors vary, with white, black, and red markings being the most common.

Behavior:

This large, very elegant dog, is capable of quite gentle behavior. The Borzoi makes an excellent watch-dog, as it quickly becomes very protective of members of its family and their possessions. This dog gets along readily with members of its own kind. However, because it is so big, it is wise to introduce it slowly to smaller dogs so they are not afraid. This dog is readily trainable; although instructions should always be consistent to avoid any frustrations.

During training it is advisable to remove other dogs and any other thing capable of sudden fast movement. Owners of small dogs can become very distressed if your Borzoi takes off after their dogs in hot pursuit.

The Borzoi can make a good family companion as it is normally very tolerant of children. However, this large and powerful dog should not be left alone with small children. It requires a great deal of exercise to keep it fit and content. The feet and lower legs should be regularly checked after high-speed running.

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