Nickname        : Sighthound of the Russian Czars

Breed Origins : Russia ( Middle Ages )

Breed usage     : Hunting foxes, hares and wolves

Dog Weight      : 70 - 105 Pounds

Dog Height       : 26 to 28 inches to the shoulder

History
Borzoi is an extra large dog with a narrow but tall body. This dog is also known by the other name of the Russian wolfhound. The Borzoi was bred originally for hunting foxes, hares and wolves. It’s origins can be dated back to the Middle Ages. The Borzoi specialised in chasing down fleeing prey (coursing) originating in Russia. It is classified as one of the Hound Dogs Group .
The Borzoi Hound belongs to the collection of dogs referred to as Sighthounds or Gazehounds, which specialise in hunting its quarry by sight rather than scent. All of the Sighthound breeds originated in the Middle East, Africa and Southwest Asia. It wasn’t until the mid 1500’s that hounds began to be classified according to their purpose, i.e. sight hounds, scent hounds, etc. Sighthounds have distinctive characteristics, features and traits which are perfect for their purpose. Sighthounds have extremely good vision. They also have a long jaw and lengthy neck which assists them in sighting their quarry. Their lean muscular body, deep chest and long powerful legs essential assets when following any fast and agile prey. Sighthounds also have distinctive feet with elongated middle toes that make the foot appear longer and helps with their firm footing. Their long stride, powerful chest and lungs and agile bodies make it possible for sight hounds to chase and kill their quarry. As a pet the Borzoi Hound is usually a calm and sensitive, gentle giant that responds well to a loving owner.
The first traceable reference to the Borzoi was made in 1260 as a reference to hare coursing dogs at the Russian court of Grand Duke of Novgorad. The Borzoi was bred by the Russian aristocracy for hundreds of years and this culminated in 1613 when the Imperial Kennels of the Czars was founded. The Russian Czars would often present borzois as gifts to visiting royalty. In 1887 Grand Duke Nikolai Nikolaivitch purchased the Perchino estate in Tula and concentrated on a Borzoi breeding program. Most present Borzois dogs descend from the Perchino type of dog. The Borzoi started as a hare coursing dog but in the 15th and 16th centuries cross breeding between coursing hounds, bear hounds and tall Russian sheepdogs were made. This increased the size and coat of the dog to suit the task of hunting wolves in the cold Russian climate. The extravagant courts of the Czars and Russian nobility indulged in hunting on a grand scale. This scale of these events necessitated hundreds hounds which were kept on huge estates. Over 100 Borzois were known to take part in a hunt. Beaters and scenthounds initially trailed the wolf, followed by hunters on horseback. The Borzois were unleashed when the wolf was sighted. The dogs force the wolf down and hold it until the hunter arrived. The heritage of the great Russian Czars and the Russian nobility came to an abrupt end after the Russian Revolution. The estates were abandoned and many of the borzois were killed or simply died from neglect.

All Information and Tips About This Dog :

• Coat and Colours information
  The Borzoi’s coat is normally comes in all colours, usually parti-coloured. The coat is silky, flat or wavy and short in some parts.

• Temperament and Character
  Borzoi is an independent but very sensitive breed of dog. They are calm, gentle, reserved and dignified and makes a well-mannered house dog. Outdoors it will race about and will chase any small animal that runs. It can be timid and is not suited to rough handling - children need to handle the dog quietly and gently. Borzois can live outdoors in temperate climates but are best suited as house dogs with access to a yard.

• Health information - potential health problems
  Resolving dog health problems, including those of the Borzoi, can prove to be costly and it would be wise to consider the benefits of obtaining dog health insurance. Common health problems and questions occur in relation to the Bones, Joints, Muscles, Nerves, Ears, Eyes, Teeth and the Mouth. Other, more serious, issues can relate to the Digestive System, Heart & Respiratory Systems, Immune & Blood Systems, Reproduction and Urinary Systems. Potential health problems of the Borzois can include:
  • Gastric Torsion
  • The life expectancy for this particular breed is 10 to 12 years.

• Grooming and Care
  Borzoi’s require brushing or combing two or three times a week. Grooming consists of not only brushing out the coat and bathing but also giving attention to the eyes, teeth, ears, feet and nails. A regular routine also ensures that any potential health problems are identified as quickly as possible.

• Living conditions and Exercise Requirements
  Borzoi dogs and puppies are best suited to living in the country because they require a moderate amount of exercise. The Borzoi breed of dog loves to run and enjoys frequent walks but it is also content to find a comfortable bed or place in the back yard and rest quietly.