Borzoi

The Borzoi is known as the "long-haired greyhound"� because of its shaggy yet lean appearance. It is a famous sight hound, known for its skill in the field and for its speed. In fact, its name comes from the Russian word "Borzaya,"� which means quick dog. However, the name is also somewhat of a misnomer. When the Russians named their dogs in the past, they used descriptive words. As such, the Borzoi's actual name is the Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya. However, there is also the Hortaya Borzaya, Krimskaya Borzaya, and Stephnaya Borzaya. All of them are sight hounds, and all of them are quick. However, using the Western naming system of calling a "Borzaya"� a Borzoi, all of these distinct breeds would have the same name. The Psovaya Borzaya is the longhaired version of these Russian sight hounds. If the Western World had interpreted the name correctly, it would be called the Psovoi. History These dogs originated in the Kyrgzstan area near the Afghan plains. Over the years, they migrated across the region, following various owners as they traveled along silk trading routes. The modern Borzoi as we know it today developed from these early predecessors. The breed was created by crossing these dogs with Arabian Greyhounds. Many Tsars had Borzois for pets up until the revolution in 1917. Tsars used them as companions on hunting trips, where they tracked foxes, hares, and wolves. The Borzoi could work with up to 100 other dogs at a time during these hunts. Though these dogs were rarely found outside of Russia prior to the revolution, they were imported to Scandanavia, England, and America, where it was also known as the Russian Wolfhound. In the years since, the breed has become well established across the globe. Appearance The Borzoi's nickname, "the long-haired greyhound,"� is very accurate. These dogs have a body that was built for sprinting, much like that of a greyhound. A powerful neck leads into sloping shoulders, a narrow yet deep chest, muscular legs, and a long tail. These features make the Borzoi somewhat aerodynamic, which is why it can achieve high speeds in a sprint. A Borzoi's head is very long and narrow, continuing the aerodynamic shape. The face has dark eyes and small ears, giving this dog a soft, gentle expression. Overall, this dog appears very elegant from head to tail. A long coat covers the body. Fur is silky and lies flat against the body, though it often has a slight wave or curl. Hair is shorter on the head and the front of the legs, and it is longer on the back of the legs and the tail. Coat colors vary; tan, white, black, red, and mixed colors are acceptable. Some Borzoi have distinct patches and markings on the body while others are solid in color. Measurements for the Borzoi are as follows: males usually measure at least 28 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 75 and 105 pounds; females usually measure at least 26 inches tall at the withers and weigh between 60 and 90 pounds. Temperament Borzoi are typically quiet, independent dogs. Since they rarely bark, most owners think of the as silent pets. They are also well mannered, unless they see something they want to chase, and gentle. This makes them ideal pets for houses with other animals, since they are capable of living in huge "packs."� Borzoi can be skittish around new people, and they do value their own personal space, so they need to be socialized from an early age. Otherwise, they will most likely be uncomfortable around young children who will invade their space and yank their tails without a second thought. Health Issues The average lifespan of a Borzoi is between 7 and 10 years. Cancer, old age, and cardiac problems are the major causes of death. Other common ailments include bloat (gastric torsion) and Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA), a disease that affects a dog's sight. Other than that, the Borzoi is usually healthy. Common problems like hip dysplasia that are usually seen in large dogs are rare in the Borzoi. With good care, these dogs will remain active into old age. Pet Care Grooming is one of the most time consuming chores an owner with a Borzoi must do. The long fur needs both brushing and bathing on a regular basis. Due to their size, the Borzoi also needs a lot of exercise. They have energy to expend, and it must happen on a daily basis. Obedience is crucial in order to keep the Borzoi in line, especially when walking on a leash. These dogs are bred to chase moving objects and hunt by sight, so they will run away if not controlled. However, they are slow to learn, so owners must be dedicated to teaching in order for it to succeed. Perseverance is key. What Owners Have to Say Most owners love the Borzoi because it is very catlike in that it is independent enough to take care of some of its own needs. At the same time, it is also very affectionate, meaning that it fits right in with the family. Is this the right dog for you? If you like the look of the greyhound, but want a larger, fluffier dog, then the Borzoi is probably for you. These dogs are very athletic and fun to play with. They are also independent, so they don't have problems separation anxiety like other breeds. As a house pet, Borzoi adults are well behaved and calm. This dog comes across as a very polite animal. However, there are some problems with the breed. They can be shy, and their independence can make them hard to train and housebreak. Giving them space to run is crucial, or else they will channel their energy into other, more destructive outlets. They do shed a lot, which is another undesirable trait. Think of all these things before choosing the Borzoi. In most cases, they do make the perfect pet as long as the owner is prepared.

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