Borzoi

Borzoi are intelligent and limber sight hounds that excel at lure coursing, hunting, sighting and even agility training if taught correctly.

Originally bred in Russia during the Middle Ages to hunt wolves in tandem, Borzoi descended from the Saluki, Greyhound and various Russian mongrels.

Borzoi are also known as Russian Wolfhounds. The breed is nicknamed the “long-haired Greyhound.”

Personality

Refined and independent
Naturally respectful of people but can be timid
Sometimes a bit cranky with strangers or children

Size

80-130 pounds
23-28 inches at the withers (shoulders)

Lifestyle

Powerful and dominant dogs who would do best in a home with older children
As natural guards, Borzoi, when properly trained and socialized, can be extremely loyal and protective of children in their family; they are not known to be warm toward children from outside their family
Cannot live in a household that has high drama or raised voices as it would be damaging to their sensitive psyches
If raised with cats and other small animals, all should be fine; however, at the sight of fast movement, Borzoi will likely chase anything
Like to bite other dogs’ necks in play; this comes from their hunting instincts
Do better in suburban settings than urban as they need plenty of space and the chance to run freely

Training

While eager to learn, they will not respond well to harsh verbal or physical treatment, nor to a typical repetitive, firm training approach
Since they are easily bored, innovative, upbeat, lively training sessions will work best with their intelligent but somewhat stubborn demeanor

Exercise

Bred for speed so they should be given the opportunity daily to stretch their legs and run around a fenced-in, secure area
If they are off-leash and see prey, that is the last you will see of the Borzoi
Need multiple daily walks for both mental and physical stimulation

Coat

Any mix of colors
A glossy, curly outer coat with a thick, dense undercoat keeps the Borzoi insulated in cool temperatures
Sheds during hotter weather
Needs to be brushed daily to prevent matting and tangling

Health

A very healthy breed
Some may be genetically prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dislocation, bloat, gastric torsion, congenital eye disease and heart disease

Lifespan

10-13 years

Rescue

Visit the National Borzoi Rescue Foundation to find an adoptable Borzoi

PHOTO: CGA

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