Originally bred for use in coursing and hunting in Russia, the Borzoi dog breed is now popular worldwide. This pack of three hounds hunts for rabbit, fox, and wolf in teams of three. As a result, they became a favourite choice for royalty across Europe.
Borzois are mellow family dogs who, despite their great size, can live in apartments. Leave them alone for long amounts of time during the day and they will become depressed. This delicate canine needs a human companion. You will need to spend some time maintaining their lovely coat because it sheds a lot. In order to enjoy your Borzoi, you'll still need to put in some time and effort to meet its demands. Borzoi dog breed characteristics and statistics are included below.
Highlights
- Sighthounds, Borzoi are prone to chasing any prey that moves. Unless in a safe place, they should never be let to roam free.
- It is possible for Borzoi, due to their lack of body fat, to be sensitive to medications, particularly anaesthetics. Verify this with your veterinarian. A Borzoi should never be given Ropum (Xylazine). You should also avoid exercising them on lawns that have recently been treated with fertilizer, pesticides, or other chemicals.
- In general, Borzoi are picky eaters.
- It is possible for borzoi to bloat. Avoid strenuous exertion after a meal by consuming several modest meals throughout the day.
- When it comes to youngsters, Borzoi can be apprehensive and should be introduced to them as soon as possible.
- Borzoi dogs rarely bark and don't show much of a protective side. When an intruder is spotted, you can't count on them to sound the alarm.
- If exposed to cats and other small animals at a young age, they can coexist peacefully. Some Borzoi can't resist the urge to chase a sprinting cat even when told "no chase" is the only rule of the house.
- Because the Borzoi is a rare breed, finding a breeder with puppies may take some time. Be patient; it will all work out in the end.
- Never purchase a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store if you want a healthy canine. If you want to be certain that your puppy will be free of hereditary illnesses and have a healthy temperament, look for a reputable breeder who conducts genetic testing on her breeding dogs.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
55 to 105 pounds
Lifespan
10 to 12 years
Height
26 to 32 inches tall at the shoulder
History
Borzoi is a nickname he was given because of his extraordinary speed and agility. The Borzoi dog breed originated in Russia during the 17th century. This cross was made with Arabian Greyhound and Russian Sheepdog ancestry. With its history as a cursing sighthound, the Borzoi has earned its place in Russian aristocratic tradition. It wasn't until 1650 that the first published set of breed criteria appeared.
Because of their close ties to the czars, many Borzoi were murdered during the Russian Revolution of 1917. Prince Edward VII, Queen Victoria, and Prince Charles were all given Borzoi by the Czar of Russia, who also presented them to Queen Alexandra as breeding stock and companions. For decades, it was seen as a flashy dog in America. They were often accompanied by Art Deco models such as Jean Harlow, Hope Hampton, Greta Garbo, and Sarah Bernhardt. Marilyn Monroe, Pablo Picasso, and a slew of other notables kept Borzois as pets. They've also graced the covers of prestigious fashion magazines including Vogue. An AKC Hound, the Borzoi is a member of the Borzoi family. Borzoi is a Sighthound breed, and its name was changed from Russian wolfhound to Borzoi in late 1936.
Personality and Temperament
In spite of their aristocratic persona, borzoi have a light-hearted side to them. It appears that they like the fun that is provided to them since they have a pleasant demeanor, are kind and peaceful, and appear to enjoy it. Have them accompany you for a jog if you want to keep them occupied. Like their borzoi predecessors, these dogs will pursue and catch any little escaping animal. No matter how many automobiles try to slow them down, they won't relent in their pursuit.
Even if your Borzoi doesn't enjoy obedience classes, it will entertain you and do something resembling what you want it to do. They'll put on a good show as long as you keep it intriguing and amusing. There is no escaping the fact that they are doing this as a favour to you. Borzoi, like other sighthounds, are intelligent and devoted family members. They are kind to newcomers, although they aren't particularly outgoing. Their barks are a good indication that anything is amiss, and they're capable of doing so. If they try to protect you at all, it's because they aren't very good at what they do.
Care
The gentle giants of Borzois are sometimes mistaken for low-maintenance breeds. Even if temperament takes up most of their waking hours, these dogs need regular exercise and training based on conscious, positive reinforcement to live happily. To keep their silky coats, this breed has to be groomed on a regular basis.
Health
In general, Borzoi are healthy, but like any other breed, they are susceptible to a variety of health issues. If you're thinking about getting a Borzoi dog, you should be informed of the various ailments that can affect this breed.
Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as gastric torsion or bloat
Large, deep-chested dogs are particularly vulnerable to this life-threatening illness, which occurs when they are served one large meal a day, eat quickly, drink a lot of water quickly, or move energetically thereafter. A bloated stomach happens when the stomach is full of gas or air and then twists. Inability to belch or vomit prevents the dog from getting rid of the extra air in his stomach, resulting in reduced blood supply to the heart.
The dog's heart rate lowers and it enters a state of shock. The dog is in danger of dying if not given emergency medical care right away. If your dog has a bloated tummy, profuse drooling, and retching without vomiting, you should be on the lookout for bloat. Also, he may feel agitated and depressed, and he may be weak and lethargic, and his heart rate may be accelerated. Get your dog to the vet as soon as possible if you observe these symptoms.
Osteochondrosis Dissecans (OCD)
The elbows are the most common site for this orthopaedic ailment, which is caused by abnormal cartilage formation in the joints. However, it has been observed in the shoulders as well. As a result of this, the dog is no longer able to flex his elbow, and the agony is excruciating. Dogs as young as four to nine months old can be tested for the disease. Puppies fed high-protein or "growth formula" puppy food could be more prone to this condition.
Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)
The loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye eventually results in blindness as a result of this degenerative eye illness. Years before the dog shows any signs of blindness, PRA can be detected. The good news is that dogs may utilise their other senses to compensate for blindness, and a blind dog can lead a normal and happy life. Do not, however, make it a practice to rearrange the furnishings. An annual veterinary ophthalmologist certification is required for all reliable breeders. They do not breed any dogs with this disease.
Elbow and hip dysplasia
Dysplasia, a degenerative disorder affecting a dog's joints, is common in large breeds. Dysplasia of the elbows or hips affects a large percentage of dogs because of hereditary defects that begin to manifest in puppies.
Recommended Health Tests
- Cardiac Exam
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation
- Thyroid Evaluation
- Degenerative Myeolopathy DNA Test
Nutrition
Borzoi dogs normally consume less food than other dogs of their size, and puppies eat more food than adults because of their quick growth. Overfeeding or giving too many goodies to a Borzoi can lead to weight gain and obesity-related health problems for the dog.
Commercially manufactured or home-prepared dog food should be fine for the Borzoi, as long as it has veterinary supervision. Puppies, adults, and senior dogs all require different types of food. If you want to make sure your dog is eating properly and safely as he develops, talk to your veterinarian about how many meals and how much food they should be getting at each of those meals based on their age.
Because these dogs are prone to running and chasing, feeding them at the right time is critical. Prior to or following any hard exercise, do not feed your Borzoi since this can contribute to bloat. This energetic breed needs access to clean, fresh water at all times.
Grooming
As a result of their long, silky coat, Borzois shed frequently and require daily cleaning to remove fallen hairs and grime. Summer and fall are the Borzoi's shedding seasons, which necessitate additional care. The texture and distribution of this breed's coat is distinctive, with a frill on the neck and feathering on the hindquarters and tail. Regular washing and nail clipping are also necessities for this breed, as they are for most of them.
Exercise
At least an hour of daily exercise in the form of long walks is necessary for these huge, athletic canines. These powerful sighthound dogs must only be walked on a leash when they are in a fenced-in yard because they are far too tempted by the sight of a cat or a squirrel on the run. Dog sports like lure coursing and agility are particularly popular among this breed's owners, who like spending time with their dogs in the great outdoors.
Training
Having a Borzoi demands patience, consistency, and a smidgen of humour, among other things. These canines may be both silent and stubborn, which makes them somewhat similar to cats. It's true that Borzoi are bright, kind and well-mannered, but they are also self-reliant when it comes to their training (so training may be somewhat of a challenge). As with other sighthounds, they are extremely sensitive to harsh treatment, and this can lead to boredom and frustration. Raise your voice or use any punishment-based training methods and your Borzoi will snap. There is no substitute for early socialisation and positive reinforcement.
Children and Other Pets
With tiny children, especially toddlers, the Borzoi may be excessively large. They're huge canines that could easily knock a kid over by mistake. Toddlers aren't going to get away with poking and probing them, either. Homeowners with older children who are familiar with dog interaction should consider getting one of these canines.
If you have dogs around small children, be sure to show them how to approach and touch them so that no bites or ear or tail pulling occurs. Your youngster should be taught not to disturb a sleeping or eating dog, or to attempt to take away the dog's food. A dog should never be left alone with a child, no matter how old they are.
For the most part Borzoi are not violent towards other dogs, but their sighthound background may take over in an uncontrolled scenario when there are a lot of little dogs. When it comes to other canines of the same gender, some can be hostile. Borzoi puppies can be taught not to chase or snap at other household pets, such as cats, with proper training. Training may be limited to confined spaces, however. When it comes to cats, even your own may be considered fair game.
Puppies
Since the Borzoi breed was once only produced in Russia and Belarus, its high price has been attributed to that fact. The price of a puppy varies depending on the puppy's age and the purity of the breed. More than 90 percent purebred puppies would set prospective purchasers back around $3000 whereas Borzoi enthusiasts can get their pups around $1,000 if they are willing to compromise on breed purity.
The cost of a Borzoi puppy can be rather high. Generally speaking, they'll cost between $1,000 and $2,000. Puppy prices might go up to $5,000 if you're looking for a dog with a very impressive pedigree or descendant from a rare breed.
To guarantee the health of your puppy, you should thoroughly research any breeder you are considering working with. A search for a Borzoi rescue group is the ideal place to start if you're interested in adopting a Borzoi.
Dog breed Similar to Borzoi
- Basenji
- Greyhound
- Ibizan Hound
- Irish Wolfhound
- Pharaoh Hound
- Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Saluki
- Scottish Deerhound
- Whippet
