Borzoi

The Borzoi: An elegant hunter with a gentle nature

History of the Borzoi

The history of the Borzoi goes way back to ancient Russia, where these dogs were bred and kept by the Russian aristocracy. They were originally used to hunt wolves, hares and foxes. Their name comes from the old Russian word "borzyi", which means "fast" - a reference to their impressive speed and agility. The borzoi was a symbol of wealth and power and was often depicted in paintings and literature of the time. In the 19th century, borzoi found their way to Western Europe and the USA, where they continued to be prized for their beauty and noble appearance.

Who is the Borzoi suitable for?

The borzoi is an ideal companion for people who are looking for a calm but active dog. Due to its hunting instinct, it needs a lot of exercise and is ideal for owners who enjoy long walks or jogging. He is well suited to families, singles or couples who can give him enough attention and exercise. As he has a calm and gentle character, he is well suited to quiet households where he is not constantly disturbed by noise or hectic activity.

Character and temperament

The Borzoi is known for its gentle and calm nature. He is usually very friendly and loyal to his family, but often reserved towards strangers. Despite its hunting dog past, the Borzoi has a rather calm temperament and is often a reserved and unobtrusive companion in the home. Its intelligence and sensitivity make it a dog that responds well to its owner's mood.

Appearance of the Borzoi

The Borzoi is a large, elegant dog with a lean, muscular body and a long, narrow head. Its eyes are almond-shaped and expressive, and its ears lie flat against the head but can be erect when alert. The coat is long, silky and wavy, and it can appear in many different colors, including white, gold, gray and black. Males reach a shoulder height of 75 to 85 cm, bitches are slightly smaller, with a shoulder height of 68 to 78 cm. The weight is between 34 and 48 kg for males and between 27 and 41 kg for females.

Grooming the borzoi

Grooming the borzoi requires regular attention, especially with regard to its coat. The long, silky coat should be brushed thoroughly at least once a week to prevent matting and keep it clean and shiny. Daily brushing may be necessary during shedding periods. Ears, eyes and teeth should be checked and cleaned regularly to prevent infections. As the borzoi is a very clean dog, it rarely needs to be bathed.

Health of the borzoi

The Borzoi is generally a healthy breed, but as with all dogs, there are some health issues to watch out for. These include hip dysplasia, bloat and some genetic conditions such as progressive retinal atrophy (PRA). Regular visits to the vet and a balanced diet are important to keep your borzoi healthy. With the right care and prevention, a borzoi can reach an age of 10 to 12 years.

Exercise and movement

Borzoi are active dogs that need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Daily walks and the opportunity to run free are important to satisfy their natural urge to exercise. A securely fenced garden or special dog meadows are ideal to give them enough exercise. Despite their size, borzoi can also be kept in urban environments, provided they get enough exercise and mental stimulation.

Training recommendations

Training a borzoi should be done with patience and positive reinforcement. These dogs are intelligent and sensitive, so they respond well to gentle, consistent training methods. Early socialization is important to ensure they are good with other dogs and people. Due to their strong hunting instinct, it is advisable to intensify recall training so that they can run safely off-leash.

Behavior with children and other animals

Borzoi are generally good-natured and patient with children, especially when they grow up with them. They are gentle and playful, but tend to withdraw when things get too hectic. When interacting with other animals, Borzoi often show a strong hunting instinct, so caution is advised when living with smaller pets such as cats or rabbits. Early and thorough socialization can help to temper these instincts.

FCI recognition and other

The Borzoi is recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) and belongs to Group 10 (Sighthounds), Section 1 (Longhaired or Feathered Sighthounds). Interestingly, Borzoi have a special place in Russian culture and are often represented in art and literature. Their elegant appearance and historical significance make them a unique and fascinating dog breed.