Breedinformation

 

What Are The Borzoi Like?
The Borzoi, whether relaxed on the sofa or racing in pursuit of game, is a dog of exceptional beauty, grace, and elegance. The breed was developed by the Russian aristocracy and in centuries past used as a hunter of both small and large game, including hare, fox, and wolf. The Borzoi sights and chases the quarry, and hence, is called a sighthound. The Borzoi's long legs, deep chest, and streamlined build with slightly arched loin and powerful hindquarters provide the agility, power, and speed required in his work. The Borzoi is courageous and bold of spirit in the field. At home with his beloved family the Borzoi, the aristocrat of dogs, assumes an air of quiet dignity. He is endowed with a keen intelligence and an affectionate nature. Some Borzoi are reserved with strangers but most are outgoing and friendly to all.
 
How Big Are The Borzoi?
Male Borzoi range typically from 30 to 33 inches at the shoulder and weigh from 75 to 105 pounds. Females are smaller, weighing from 55 to 85 pounds and ranging from 28 to 31 inches at the shoulder. There are Borzoi whose height and weight measurements fall outside these ranges. The Borzoi Standard states that mature males less than 28 inches and mature females less than 26 inches at the withers (shoulder) should be severely penalized in some competitive events.
 
How Long Do The Borzoi Live?
A dog in good health, given lots of affection and regular veterinary check-ups, can live to be 9 or 10 years old. Many live to 12 to 14 years of age.
 
How Much Do The Borzoi Eat?
Borzoi are surprisingly small eaters for their size. Puppies consume more food than adults due to their rapid growth. Most adult Borzoi eat about as much as a medium-sized dog. The quality of the food is of primary importance. Cheap brands will not do. A high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food is best. Supplementation with vitamins or minerals is not advised unless directed by your veterinarian. In general, strenuous exercise is not recommended immediately before or after feeding time.
 
Do The Borzoi Need A Lot Of Exercise?
As adults, Borzoi are not the kind of dogs that need to run off a lot of pent-up energy. Many are content with daily walks or jogs and/or playtime in a safe, fenced area. However, as puppies Borzoi need as much exercise as they can get naturally (not forced) through play, chasing each other around a fenced field, walks in the park, and so on. Plenty of daily exercise is essential for proper growth and development of a Borzoi from the puppy stage through young adulthood.
 
Do The Borzoi Shed?
Yes! All long-coated dogs shed and Borzoi are no exception. Unspayed females will shed after an estrous cycle and all Borzoi tend to have a shedding period once a year, usually in the spring or summer. Dogs kept in the house year 'round tend to shed a little all of the time. Regular brushing will remove loose hair and dirt from the coat. Daily brushing is recommended during shedding time.
 
Are The Borzoi Difficult to Groom?
Though the long, silky coat, which can be any color, is spectacular to behold and lovely to caress, its care is fairly simple. A thorough brushing several times a week, periodic nail-trimming and an occasional bath are needed. Teeth can be kept clean by brushing (start in puppyhood) or by providing large beef bones to gnaw. Bones must be large ball-joints or long bones that cannot be splintered or swallowed!
 
Are The Borzoi Good With Children?
When raised with children most Borzoi are wonderful, trustworthy companions. Children must be supervised and taught how to treat the puppy. Borzoi will not tolerate rough or abusive treatment and rarely forget past mistreatment by anyone. It may take some time and patience in working with an adult dog adopted into a family with children. Some adopted dogs will need more time than others to adjust to a boisterous household.
 
Are The Borzoi Good With Other Pets?
Yes, if they are raised with other animals. However, since Borzoi were bred to chase and catch game, the sight of a small animal running by may trigger this response. Your Borzoi may share companionship with your indoor cat but may change his attitude outdoors when a cat, even his indoor cat, runs from him. Most owners report their Borzoi and other pets get along just fine, but it is best to use caution to prevent any "chasing mishaps."
 
Must I Put My Borzoi In A Kennel Or Dog Crate?
Many people feel guilty about putting their dog in a kennel or dog crate. Don't! Crates are humane and dogs view them as their own special "den." Crates are used for housebreaking and to keep your dog and your household safe at night or when you are away from home for a few hours. When your dog is over the housebreaking and chewing stages, the crate will still be readily accepted any time a safe haven is needed. An ideal crate for an adult Borzoi measures 28"W by 36"H by 48"L. Be sure to include a nice soft cushion. If you are away from home for an extended time during the day you may want to consider building a kennel run with access to shelter for your Borzoi.
 
Do The Borzoi Bark?
On a whole, Borzoi are a very quiet breed. They usually do not bark unless there is a good reason to do so. Some have been known to bark to be let out or to alert you to a strange dog or person in your yard. Most Borzoi are not good watchdogs, but with their imposing size, a burglar should take one look and move on.
 
Do The Borzoi Have Any Health Problems?
As a breed Borzoi are remarkably healthy. As with other large, deep-chested breeds Borzoi can suffer from gastric dilitation and volvulus, better known as BLOAT AND TORSION. Although it is fairly uncommon, you should discuss this life-threatening syndrome with your veterinarian so you will be aware of the symptoms. IMMEDIATE VETERINARY CARE is required. DYSPLASIA of the hips and elbows is found occasionally in Borzoi. Conscientious breeders screen for hip dysplasia and never use affected individuals in their breeding program.

PRA or Progressive Retinal Atrophy has been found in Borzoi. Dogs can be tested by a veterinary opthamologist. Only dogs pronounced free of eye disease should be used for breeding.

Many breeders screen their stock for hereditary health problems like PRA and hip dysplasia. They'll be glad to tell you all about it!

 
Which Makes A Better Companion, a Male or a Female Borzoi?
Gender does not seem to be a significant factor in temperament, training, or adaptability. Males are larger and have a longer, more profuse coat. When your pet is spayed or neutered you will not have to deal with estrous seasons or breeding behavior. In general, both males and females make excellent companions.
 
Back to Index