THE BORZOI
BACKGROUND:
The Borzoi (or Russian Wolfhound) originated in Russia, being recognised in its modern form in the 17th Century. The Borzoi was bred as a 'coursing' or hunting dog, using its excellent speed and sight to chase and run down foxes, hares and wolves. The agility and strength of the Borzoi lent itself perfectly to the great hunting traditions of the Russian aristocracy as immortalised by Leo Tolstoy in War and Peace.
Because of their elegance and grace, the Borzoi soon attracted international interest, and were soon found all over the world. The first Borzoi was exported to Australia in 1898.
AVERAGE LIFESPAN:
Like many of the large or giant breeds, the Borzoi is not as long lived as some smaller dogs. In general, the Borzoi lives between 10-12 years.
AVERAGE SIZE AND WEIGHT:
The male Borzoi is often significantly larger than the female, with a weight range of 34-48 kg (75-100 pounds), and average height of 70-82 cm (28-33 inches). The female, who is lighter and finer, weighs between 25-37 kg (55-80 pounds) and stands between 65-77.5 cm (28-31 inches) tall. For their great height and size, the Borzoi is never bulky or fat!
THE BORZOI PERSONALITY:
Generally, the Borzoi is a calm and gentle giant who responds well to a loving owner. The Borzoi is a reserved and dignified breed which is not suited to rough handling or aggressive training. As with many other breeds, the Borzoi will benefit from basic obedience training. The Borzoi is a breed which needs to be handled sensibly, and any children with whom it is to live must be taught to handle the dog quietly and sensibly.
Although the Borzoi loves to run and enjoys frequent walks, it is also happy to find a comfortable bed or place in the back yard and rest quietly. Borzois are adept at finding the most comfortable position in the house for a nap - quite frequently your bed!
COMPATABILITY WITH OTHER PETS:
When properly socialised as a puppy, the Borzoi will live amicably with the other pets in your household. It is important to remember, however, that the Borzoi was bred to chase running game, and that care should be taken with cats and other small animals when in the back yard or out walking.
CARE REQUIREMENTS:
Borzois are surprisingly small eaters for their size, and eat about the same amount of food as a medium sized dog. As with any pet, Borzois are best fed on high quality and nutritional food. The Borzoi is also happy when fed often with large bones as a dietary supplement, and when left alone for periods of time.
The Borzoi coat is also surprisingly easy to maintain. Brushing is necessary several times a week, and bathing regularly is important to keep the coat clean and assist with flea control.
A primary part of Borzoi care is the importance of regular exercise. The Borzoi needs open spaces such as parks or the beach to be exercised 'off leash' - it is vital to a breed such as this, both physically and mentally, that exercise is maintained.
Ideally, the Borzoi needs a large back yard to be kept in, but this can be compensated for in the city with long daily walks.
As with all dogs, the Borzoi requires regular veterinary checks and lots of loving care!
PLEASE TAKE NOTE
Borzois are agile dogs, and need adequate fencing to keep them safely enclosed, particularly in the city.
Borzoi, like other large dogs, are occasionally prone to Gastric Torsion or "Bloat". It is wise to consult with your breeder or Vet about this issue.
Keep in mind also that the Borzoi is generally not a dog suited to complex obedience training, unlike other breeds more specifically bred for this purpose. The Borzoi is quite capable of basic obedience training, but is generally not responsive to more specialist training.
IDEAL OWNERS
The ideal owner of a Borzoi is someone who is happy to take the dog for long walks, but is happy to have a couch potato at home! The Borzoi is not suited to rough play or being physically reprimanded, and responds better to calm vocal discipline from his owner. The Borzoi is a great, loyal and sensitive companion, and will respond with great affection to a loving owner!
IN CONCLUSION
Now you know a little about the Borzoi and have decided this is the dog for you contact the breed club or your state controlling body for purebred dogs as listed on the reverse of this brochure. They will be able to give you information about available puppies, suggest dog shows where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs.
