Dog Breeds - Borzoi

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The name Borzoi is based on the Russian word “Borzaya” which means “Quick Dog”. They are also known as the “Russian Wolfhound”. The Borzoi has strong instincts to hunt and chase game. They are structured for speed and can cover a large distance very quickly. Because of this they should be kept in a fenced yard to protect them from traffic and to prevent them from getting lost. It is recommended that Borzoi owners microchip their pet for permanent identification since their speed and love for a good chase can cause them to get lost.

Russian hunters used Borzoi’s in hunting tests to help determine which dogs were fastest and most intelligent. The dogs that excelled in the competitions were used as breeding stock. Although these hunting competitions resulted mostly in the Borzoi’s hunting hare and other small game, the hunters always hoped for wolves. If a wolf was spotted a team of Borzoi’s were released to hunt and hold the wolf down for its owner to kill. The ability to hunt wolves was an important consideration in development of this breed and many different Russian spitz were crossed to increase the breeds overall. This breed can perform very well in obedience and agility competitions, although training can prove difficult as they are stubborn and bore quite easily.

Borzois come in any solid color mixed color combinations. They have a luxurious, silky top-coat that is most commonly flat but can be wavy or curly. Their undercoat is soft and thickens in the winter and sheds in summer. The Borzoi is a sensitive breed that must be treated with respect during training. Harsh training will not be effective and can make the breed very unresponsive and unhappy. Generally they are a quiet breed with a low dominancy. The Borzoi does not make a great guard dog or protector as they are quiet and not excessively territorial. This breed usually gets along well with other breeds and if introduced at a young age they are able to live with cats, however introducing them at a later age may prove difficult as they may not be able to suppress their hunting nature!