Borzoi

The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a large and elegant breed originating in Russia. They are known for their athletic build, long silky coat and characteristic curled tail. They are gentle, intelligent and loyal dogs.

General details

The Borzoi are large and elegant dogs, with a slender and muscular build, weighing between 27 and 48 kilos, and measuring between 68 and 85 centimeters at shoulder height. Their average lifespan is between 9 and 14 years. According to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), it belongs to Group 10, which groups sighthounds.

Breed history in brief

The Borzoi dog, also known as the Russian Hound, has a long Russian tradition. It arose in the 16th century from crosses between Persian Greyhounds and European Hounds with other Russian breeds with a dense, climate-adapted coat. The Borzoi was a popular breed among the Czars, and for centuries could not be bought, they could only be obtained as a gift from the Czars. Grand Duke Nicholas Nicholas Nicolaievich of Russia had countless Borzois on his private estates. They were originally bred to hunt wolves and other big game, but were also used to guard estates. It was accepted as its own breed in 1956.

Breed characteristics

The Borzoi dog has an athletic build, with a long, slender body, long legs and muscular neck. They have a narrow head, a long, pointed muzzle and dark, expressive eyes. Their ears are long and thin and their tail curls over the back. The coat is easy to care for, silky and long. The usual colors are pure white, white with yellow, orange, red, brindle or gray patches. However, in practice it is one of the most colorful dogs known. Borzoi dogs are known for their gentle and affectionate nature. They are intelligent, obedient and loyal, which makes them excellent family pets. They are also friendly and sociable, and get along well with other dogs and animals. They can be aloof with strangers, but once they get to know someone, they are very affectionate and friendly. They get bored quickly with repetitive tasks and are stubborn when not properly motivated.

Common health problems

Like all dog breeds, the Borzoi is susceptible to certain health problems. Some of the most common health problems in the breed include volvulus-gastric dilatation, hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, osteochondritis dissecans and increased sensitivity to anesthetics. In addition to the above conditions, the OFA (Orthopedic Foundation for Animals) Canine Health Information Center (CHIC) recommends a cardiac and ocular screening examination, as well as a series of tests to assess for autoimmune thyroiditis and degenerative myelopathy.