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The dramatic Borzoi has been greatly appreciated and cherished since its appearance probably around 1650. A Russian Duke, after losing an imported group of Sighthounds from the desert, received a second group which he crossed with a more powerful, coated Russian dog to give rise to the daunting Borzoi or Russian Wolfhound, of the age. No doubt, this dog was historically an intimidating force to be reckoned with. Efforts since the breed has been released by royalty so that anyone might have one, has resulted in breeding programs that developed the Borzoi into an elegant and enjoyable companion that is still an impressive participant in lurecoursing competitions around the world.
Coat type: smooth on front of legs, ears and face, otherwise long but not wooly, straight, wavy or slightly curly
Recognized Registries: FCI, NCA, AKC, UKC, and others
Overall Appearance: Elegant but not excessively refined, the Borzoi is a dog of speed and power with special emphasis placed on the critical front and rear assemblies and neck. With the exceptional lines of a sighthound, arched topline, deep chest and narrow waist, the Borzoi also boasts exceptional muscling and a lush lustrous coat.
Personaility - Behavior - Training
Energy Level: like most Sighthounds, calm inside, active outside
General Nature:
easy-going and friendly but can be protective
with Children: excellent when socialized with well mannered children
with other pets: generally very good tho some small fast animals (cats, squirrels) can be a problem
with dogs: generally very good
Socialization requirements: moderate
Ideal home characteristics: One that respects the exercise needs of a large, speed oriented dog. Large areas are needed for this dog to truly stretch out. Can be difficult to train a solid recall. Wonderful relaxed companions at home and with family.
Temperament Notes: Socializing makes the Borzoi into a confident, pleasant dog, ideal companion for those who stay at home or who are on the go. Great traveler when introduced properly. Very friendly to everyone when properly socialized.
Training requirement: moderate, basic manners, socializing
Trainer notes: The Borzoi's energy is most apparent when they are running full tilt. It is challenging though not impossible to make other exercises interesting to this breed. The Borzoi, for example, is the dog most likely to take a nap during long down exercises in obedience. This does NOT mean that they are not wonderful teammates for such endeavors but simply that their training partner must be prepared to keep things interesting. This is not a dog that will do as you request just cause you think its a good idea, finding ways to motivate a Sighthound in general will usually require more than a pocketful of cat treats. If you find a way to trigger a powerful motivator for this dog, you will have an exceptional partner. Very often, in the best examples of this breed, the strongest motivator is the genuine attention and praise of their treammate.
Background Information
Year range of first recognition: during 1600s
Country of Origin: Russia
Original Function: Wolfhound of the Royal Russian Court
History: Probably a cross of an elegant but thin coated Sighthound of the desert, imported to Russia and bred with a more powerful, coated dog available there. This resulted in a powerful Sighthound suitable for the frigid Russian winters.
Adoption Information
Deviations from Standard: too small, smooth coated,
Health Notes: eye problems, autoimmune thyroiditis, congenital heart defects, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia,
