The Borzoi is one of the fastest dog breeds in the world and can reach speeds of almost 60 km/h. These proud and elegant dogs belong to the group of greyhounds and therefore have an extreme need for exercise. But despite their incredible stamina, they are balanced and gentle animals that fit well into a family.
Content: Borzoi
- profile
- Special features
- Nutrition
- Health and care
- Origin & History
- The right accessories
- Conclusion
Borzoi - Profile
- Character: Confident, loving, loyal
- Size: Large
- Height: 68-85cm
- Weight: 25-47 kg
- Life expectancy: 10-14 years
- Coat type: Long hair
- Colour: Combinations of all colours possible, except brown or blue
- FCI Group: Sighthounds
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Borzoi - Special characteristics
The Borzoi is one of the fastest dog breeds in the world, reaching speeds of almost 60 km/h. These proud and elegant dogs belong to the group of greyhounds and are characterized by an extreme need for exercise. Despite their incredible stamina, they are balanced and gentle animals that integrate well into a family.
Borzois are quite tall, with a height of 75 cm at the withers, but weigh between 35 and 47 kilograms due to their slim build. This makes them first-class athletes. Their long, fine and silky coat gives them a wiry and athletic appearance. Like all sighthounds, the Borzoi looks as if it was made for speed. Many sighthounds are said to have a cat-like nature, and this is also true of the Borzoi. He can sometimes seem aloof, proud and stubborn, which does not necessarily make him easy to train. However, with consistency, patience and affection he can become a great family dog. He is not particularly playful and is not one of those dogs that exhausts himself in playful fights. Instead, he is more likely to run around on a hunt, which is why care should be taken to control his hunting instinct when in contact with cats or other small animals.
As with all sighthounds, the Borzoi has a strong hunting instinct, as they were originally bred as hunting dogs . It is therefore important that owners are aware that they cannot always let them run free. Because of their shy nature, early socialization in the first few months is very important, and puppy schools are a good way to let the Borzoi meet lots of other dogs and people. Those who choose a Borzoi will usually find a very intelligent and loving friend, but unlike many dogs, they also maintain their independence and can be stubborn at times.
Borzoi - What should be considered regarding nutrition?
Although the Borzoi is a frugal breed of dog and eats relatively little, it has a tendency to become overweight. Therefore, its weight should be monitored regularly and high-quality food tailored to its specific needs such as age and activity level is always recommended.
It is important to note that large dogs such as the Borzoi can develop dangerous gastric torsion if they exercise too much immediately before and after meals, so care should be taken to ensure that he rests after eating.
Borzoi - Health and Care
Because of their beautiful and fluffy coat, Borzois require intensive grooming. They shed their coat once a year and last several weeks. During this time, the coat should be brushed daily with a pin or comb brush to control shedding and keep the coat clean and beautiful.
Occasional washing with dog shampoo is allowed, but care should be taken to ensure that only special dog shampoo is used. Claws should be trimmed regularly and ears cleaned. Dental care is also important, and this is where natural dog chews can play a role.
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Borzoi - Origin & History
The history of the Borzoi is closely linked to the Russian nobility. It was already known and popular in Russia in the 15th century and was used for wolf hunting, which was very popular at the time. The Borzoi thus achieved a high status in Russian society and was the companion of many prominent personalities until the Russian Revolution at the beginning of the 20th century, including Pushkin, Nicholas II, Ivan the Terrible, Turgenev and Peter the Great.
The revolution not only ended the aristocracy in Russia, but also almost ended the history of the Borzoi. However, since this breed was already widespread in Europe and the USA at that time, it could continue to be bred. The name "Borzoi" comes from the Russian word "Borzyi", which means "fast". The name "Russian Wolfhound", which was used in the West, was no longer used after a social debate in 1936. The FCI officially recognized the Borzoi dog breed in 1956.
Borzoi - The right accessories
The most important accessory for the Borzoi is the opportunity to move around freely. A private garden with a dog fence is almost a must, as these sporty dogs need a lot of space and at the same time need to be protected from their hunting instincts. A high-quality leash, harness or collar are also important.
Since large dogs like the Borzoi are prone to joint problems, a good dog bed can have a preventative effect and offer the dog a safe place to retreat. A dog transport box is recommended for transport in a car or plane to ensure the dog's safety.
Of course, the brushes, shampoo, and drinking and feeding bowls needed for grooming must not be forgotten. To satisfy their athletic nature, dog sports such as fetch games or endurance runs are ideal.
Conclusion
Anyone who gets a Borzoi should not be afraid of exercise. Long walks or hikes should be part of their daily routine. You also need a good dose of patience and empathy to win over these shy and friendly creatures. Once you have done that, an African greyhound can become the family's best friend. You can find out more about the different dogs in our beautiful world in our dog breed overview!
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