| Description: Borzois were bred as hunter in Russia and imported to America in the 1890s. They’ve been appreciated here ever since for their gentle, dignified manner. But don’t be fooled. Their prey drive will come into play if there are any small animals within striking distance. Borzois enjoy long runs and cold weather, but are quiet in the house.
They require lots of intense exercise to keep fit. Because of their slight hound heritage, Borzois should never be unleashed or allowed to roam outside of a fenced yard. They are very quiet dogs that seldom bark.
Other Names: Russian Wolfhound
Height: 27 - 31 inches
Weight: 75 - 105 lbs.
Colors: Any color acceptable.
Coat: Silky, flat, and wavy or rather curly; never woolly.
Temperament: Active, intelligent.
With Children: They can be nervy around children.
With Pets: High prey drive and will seize and kill small animals before you can react.
Special Skills: Hunting and companionships.
Watch-dog: Medium
Guard-dog: Low
Care and Training: Brush regularly with a firm bristle brush, dry shampoo when needed. Trim hair between toes. Needs plenty of exercise, including the opportunity to run off lease and daily walks. When off leash he needs to be well trained to come when you call as he may attack small dogs or cats that move suddenly. Known to be stubborn to train, training should begin at the early age of 10 weeks.
Learning Rate: High, Obedience - Medium, Problem Solving - Low
Activity: Outdoor - Very High, Indoor - Low
Living Environment: Apartment is okay if the Borzoi is provided with daily exercise. Borzoi should not be left alone is a yard as he can easily jump a six-foot fence. Owners of a Borzoi should be truly committed to the breed and be assertive.
Health Issues: Progressive retinal atrophy, gastric torsion.
Life Span: 10 - 12 Years
Litter Size: 6 - 7
Country of Origin: Russia
History: A treasured breed by the great Russian writer Tolstoy and by the Russian aristocrats. The Borzoi was originally bred to hunt, to track and to run down and dispatch the wolf from his hiding for Russian noblemen. Said to have been crossed with the Greyhound, Lapp sled dog and possibly the collie.
First Registered by the AKC: 1891 |
