Borzoi Dog Breed – Everything You Need to Know

Are you in search of a loyal and affectionate companion? Or are you seeking a dog with low-maintenance grooming?  Look no further! Borzoi dogs are the best choice for you. 

Borzoi are origins of Russia and formerly known as the Russian Wolfhound. These dogs were highly valued for being fast, strong, and never giving up when chasing prey. 

The breed’s name comes from the Russian word “Borzoi,” which means fast. Russians call these dogs “borzaya sobaka,” which translates to “fast dog.” In appearance, they are large dogs with good height, making them one of the fastest dogs in the world. 

Due to their long legs and unique body shape, these dogs are good at chasing. In ancient times, Borzoi were used to chase wolves. And while they are currently known for their chase, they are excellent However, Borzoi can be a great companion when they are trained and treated well. Their gentle and sweet nature makes these dogs ideal for families seeking a loving and devoted four-legged member.

So, if you are looking to pet a Borzoi as your companion, continue reading this blog. We will bring you closer to Borzoi and help you understand more about their nature, behavior, temperament, and needs. 

Let’s explore!

History 

The history of Borzoi goes way back to ancient times since the 16th century when this breed was used as a hunting companion. 

Initially, this breed was developed to protect families from predators and to hunt wolves in vast expanses of Russia.

This breed was also known as the Russian Hunting Sighthound in Russia due to its fast-running and wolf-hunting capabilities. The 16th century marked a pivotal turning point when these elegant breeds became refined to perfection, adept at working in pairs to bring down the formidable wolf.

Further, the Borzoi’s prowess in wolf hunting did not go unnoticed by the Czars of Russia, who held these magnificent creatures in high regard. They thought these dogs were fantastic and unique. Borzois became a symbol of being essential and graceful, and they were even in the fancy places where the Russian rulers lived. 

The Czars liked them so much that they often gave Borzois as unique gifts to other important people in Europe. This made the Borzoi famous and liked by many, not just in Russia but also in other parts of the world.

The annals of history took an unexpected turn during the Russian Revolution in 1917. During this time, Borzois was in danger of disappearing because of all the chaos. 

But luckily, the Borzois that were given as gifts to important people in Europe helped save the breed. These lucky dogs were taken care of by their new owners, and this saved the Borzoi from disappearing forever.

Nowadays, the Borzoi is not just a reminder of its fancy past in Russian palaces but also a living example of being strong and graceful. 

Appearance 

The appearance of Borzoi is attractive which combines the grace of power and athleticism. This breed has a tall, slender body and a coat that’s long, silky, and flowing. Every aspect of its form speaks to its noble heritage and athletic prowess.

They have noble faces with long, narrow snouts and ears that can be a bit floppy. Their eyes, usually dark and expressive, give them a thoughtful and elegant look.

One of the cool things about Borzois is that they come in many colors, like white, brindle, fawn, and red, often with markings. When you see a Borzoi walking, it’s like watching a graceful dancer – they move with poise and elegance. Their appearance is a mix of strength and beauty, which makes them a truly unique breed.

The average size of a Borzoi dog, according to the American Kennel club, is as follows: 

Borzoi dog	Weight	Height
Male	75-105 Pounds	28 inches and above
Female	60-85 Pounds	26 inches and above

Coat and Color

The Borzoi boasts a luxurious coat that is long, silky, and straight. This elegant fur gives them a distinctive and regal appearance. 

Further, despite its length, the Borzoi’s coat is not overly dense, which makes grooming more manageable than one might expect. 

Additionally, the Borzoi’s coat serves as a protective and insulating layer, allowing them to withstand various weather conditions. The silky texture not only enhances their aesthetic appeal but also provides a degree of natural insulation against both cold and warm temperatures.

About their color, Borzoi dogs come in a variety of colors that include:

• Red
• Brindle
• Black
• Cream 
• Fawn
• White

Apart from various colors, Borzoi come with different spots and markings on their fur, which make them look special and unique. The variety of colors and patterns make them look more charming which add glamor to their lovely appearance.

Characteristics and Temperament

Borzois have a reputation for independence. While they are loyal and affectionate with their families, they also appreciate having their own space. This independent streak gives them an air of mystery and individuality.

Further, when it comes to cleanliness, they often keep themselves clean. These elegant dogs are known for their cat-like cleanliness; they precisely keep their long, silky coats clean, often seen licking themselves much like a feline friend.

Borzoi’s temperament as a sighthound is heightened sensitivity to movement. This makes them attentive to their surroundings and can result in them being reserved or cautious around unfamiliar people or situations.

Moreover, Borzois are not typically notorious. Their temperament is generally calm and composed, and they are not known for excessive barking. 

Their posture is a thing of beauty. Borzois carry themselves with a certain regality, often described as “noble” or “aristocratic.” Their long necks and slender bodies contribute to this majestic appearance.

Health and Nutrition

Owning a Borzoi isn’t just about admiring their beauty; it’s about ensuring their health and well-being. These gentle giants, while generally healthy, have specific needs regarding nutrition, exercise, and potential health concerns that require responsible pet ownership.

A few health considerations of Borzoi are: 

• Heart Health: Borzois can be prone to heart-related issues, specifically dilated cardiomyopathy. 
• Orthopedic Care: As a large and slender breed, Borzois may be susceptible to orthopedic issues like hip dysplasia.
• Bloat Awareness: Borzois, like many deep-chested breeds, may be at risk of bloat (gastric torsion).
• Eye Health: Regular eye examinations are essential for Borzois, as they may be prone to certain eye conditions.
• Sensitive Skin: The Borzoi’s long, silky coat requires proper care to prevent skin issues. 

Note: It is not necessary that every Borzoi may face these health issues. Proper care, nutrition, and regular checkups keep Borzoi healthy. Further, maintaining proper grooming and keeping their body parts clean keeps your pet free from skin and other body part-related issues. 

About their nutrition 

Borzoi dogs are a giant breed, and to keep them healthy and lively, owners need to provide a high-quality, protein-rich diet to support their active lifestyle. Protein is essential for muscle maintenance and overall health. 

Ensuring a well-balanced diet with the right mix of vitamins and minerals is crucial. This promotes healthy growth, maintains their coat’s luster, and supports their overall vitality. Further, like all dogs, Borzoi requires access to clean water all the time. Proper hydration is vital for their overall health and helps prevent urinary issues.

Here is an overview of the food needed for Borzoi:

Borzoi Dog Types	Number of Cups	Number of Times
Borzoi Puppy	3-4 Cups	2-3 times a day
Adult Borzoi	4-6 Cups	2 times a day
Senior	2-4 cups	Once or twice a day

Keep in mind that the feeding amounts provided are approximations, and it’s essential to consult with your veterinarian for precise nutritional guidance because the amount of calories, vitamins, and minerals needed to feed depends upon the age, weight, height, and activity level of dogs. 

Borzoi puppies, being naturally active, might require increased food portions to support their constant energy levels. 

Adult Borzois, on the other hand, benefit from a well-balanced diet to maintain health and nutrition for their daily activities. 

As they age, adults may require adjustments to their diet based on factors like age and overall health.

Behavior and Training

The Russian breed Borzoi is highly devoted and can be your great companion if they are socialized early. 

Borzois aren’t robots programmed to please. They are intelligent and independent thinkers, bred for centuries to make decisions on the hunt. This means traditional, forceful training methods won’t work. 

Patience, positive reinforcement, and consistency are vital for building trust and establishing boundaries.

Borzoi may look regal and majestic, but they are soft and sensitive by heart. Harsh training or punishment can hurt their feelings and make them not want to learn. Hence, keeping patience while making them train is critical to making Borzoi a well-behaved dog. 

We recommend having a well-experienced trainer to help make Borzoi a well-behaved and well-trained companion. 

Furthermore, Borzois prefers long walks over dedicated exercise sessions, finding them more enjoyable and comfortable for staying active.

About their behavior, as already discussed, they are an independent breed and need their own space. Apart from that, despite their regal appearance, Borzois are generally gentle and calm. They often get along well with family members, including children. 

Further, Borzois can be reserved or aloof around strangers. Early socialization is essential to ensure they become well-adjusted and comfortable in various situations. 

Being a hound group breed, Borzois has a heightened sensitivity to movement. They might be more reactive to sudden stimuli, and it’s essential to expose them to different environments from a young age.

Remember, owning Borzoi is not about molding them into a specific image; it’s about cherishing each moment that you spend with them and making them your best companion. 

Grooming Needs 

These large dogs are well recognized for their stunning coats that make them look unique and regal. Hence, to maintain that charming and regal look, Borzoi requires proper grooming. 

Regular brushing is required to keep their fur in top condition and to prevent it from matting. Further, the requirement for the grooming of Borzoi is as follows: 

Brooming Needs	Number of times
Brushing	Everyday or at least three to four times a week
Bathing	When Necessary, not frequently
Ears Cleaning	Regularly, at least three times a week
Teeth Cleaning	Everyday
Nails Cleaning	Trim them regularly when needed
Skin and Coat Inspection	Regularly
Eye Care	Wipe and clean eyes everyday
Wrinkles	Gently wipes wrinkles on their face regularly

Borzoi are often inclined to keep themselves clean. Hence, moderate grooming is generally sufficient to maintain their elegant appearance and overall hygiene. 

Are Borzoi Hypoallergenic?

No, Borzois are not considered hypoallergenic. While they have a beautiful coat, it sheds, and they produce dander like other dog breeds. People with allergies to pet dander may still experience allergic reactions around Borzois. If you have allergies, spending time with a Borzoi before bringing one home can help assess your sensitivity to their dander.

Price 

The Borzoi price depends on the breeder’s reputation, the bloodline of the dog, health, age, and various other health certifications. 

However, the average price of Borzoi is as follows:

Average Price of Borzoi
Borzoi Puppy	$1000 – $2500
Borzoi Adult	$1800 – $3000
Adoption	$500 – $800

Moreover, while bringing Borzoi home, don’t forget to check the breeder’s credentials, the puppy’s health records, certifications, and the living conditions. This ensures you are bringing a healthy and well-cared-for companion with a reliable pedigree. 

Lifespan 

The lifespan of a Borzoi typically ranges from 10 to 14 years. However, individual longevity can vary based on factors such as genetics, overall health, diet, exercise, and living conditions. Providing proper care and regular veterinary check-ups can help ensure your Borzoi lives a long and healthy life.

FAQs

Ready To Bring Borzoi Home? 

After learning about Borzois in-depth, you’ve likely gained a thorough understanding of this breed. If you’re considering welcoming a Borzoi into your home, ensure you have all the necessary provisions ready, including their dietary needs, training equipment, and, most importantly, an open heart. Embracing this breed wholeheartedly will not only make them your loyal companion but also foster a bond that will endure forever.

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