Borzoi
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Description:
The Borzoi is a long coated impressive sized breed
that has a well developed, slightly elongated
body and a narrow and long skull. Its appearance
which is often referred to as being aristocratic,
elegant, exotic and graceful, is also one of pure
beauty. The Borzoi is a very old breed with ancestors
possibly dating back to the 13th century which
is when the first reference of a similar type
dog was mentioned. It has been claimed the Borzoi
was developed by crossing a native Russian breed
with a Saluki type dog, but this is just an educated
guess and no one knows with absolute certainty.
It wasn't until 1650 the first breed standard
was written and since then not much has been changed.
Borzois were developed, bred and owned by Russian
nobleman and had a significant place in the country's
culture. For hundreds of years, nobility used
Borzoi for hunting small game (by sight not scent)
as well as wolves for which they earned the name
Russian Wolfhound. This name was used the United
States up until 1936. Borzois had become popular
with European aristocrats by the end of the 19th
century and often were given as gifts to royalty.
In 1889, the first Borzoi entered the United States
from England and by 1891, the breed was recognized
the American Kennel Club in the Hound Group. Today
the Borzoi is most commonly used as a companion
and family pet, although they are also used in
lure coursing and by farmers in the United States
to help control the coyote population.
Height:
When measured at withers, the height for a male
Borzoi is at least 28 inches (71 cm) and 26 inches
(66 cm) for females.
Weight:
The weight of the Borzoi is between 60 - 105 pounds
(23 - 48 cm). Females weigh less than males.
Coat Type:
The Borzoi's coat is long, silky, soft and flat.
It is wavy or has short curls. The hair around
the neck is dense, plentiful and curly. To help
maintain the Borzoi's coat, it should be brushed
daily and bathed only when needed. Females shed
seasonally, but if spayed, will shed the same
as males - annually. Borzois are heavy shedders.
Note: Male Borzois commonly have a more impressive
coat than females.
Color:
According to AKC Standard, the Borzois coat can
be of any color or combination of colors.
Temperament:
The Borzoi is affectionate, quiet and intelligent.
This breed is loyal and devoted to its family
and is generally good with well behaved children
- however rough housing is out as this breed does
not like type of play. Additionally, supervision
with Borzois and children (especially small kids)
is always recommended. It is important this breed
is properly trained and socialized - starting
in puppyhood. Borzois do well in training, but
it must be done in a firm, consistent, patient
and gentle manner. These dogs can be stubborn
and are independent. Borzois need daily exercise
- long walks or running are both ideal. They must
always be on a lease and if not, then in a secure
area since their natural hunting by sight instinct
will steer the Borzoi quickly away in the direction
of any small animal or game.
Health Problems:
Overall, the Borzoi
is a very healthy breed. The few health concerns
which might be an issue include hip dysplasia
(common in all large animals), bloat and torsion,
PRA (Progressive Retinal Atrophy) and OCD (Osteochondritis
Dissecans). Also, the Borzoi is is sensitive to
anesthesia which is common in sight hounds. The
average life expectancy for a Borzoi is between
9 - 10 years, however they can also life up to
12 - 14 years. A healthy lifestyle is very important.
Special Interest:
• Even though the Borzoi is a large dog,
it is does not have a large appetite.
• The Borzoi is a sight hound known to have
exceptionally sharp vision.
Classifications:
AKC: Hound Group
ANKC: Hounds Group 4
CKC: Hounds Group 2
FCI: Group 10 Section 1 Long-haired or fringed
Sighthounds
KC: Hound
NZKC Hound
UKC: Sighthound & Pariah
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