Borzoi - Canine Aristocracy

It is often said that dogs are man's best friend. Although this phrase is always up for debate when felines enter the discussion, the truth is that canines are very popular pets loved by humans, who can be a great support in various circumstances. The dog breeds that exist in the world are many and diverse. Some breeds are well known for appearing in movies or television, or simply because many people have them as pets. However, there are other breeds that may seem strange, exotic, or very particular to us. If you are interested in acquiring a dog, and want to go beyond conventional choices, here you will find an option that may be to your liking. These are the Borzoi, a breed of dog typical of Russia .

• Big size .
• Weight : Between 25 and 47g.
• Hair type : Long and wavy.
• Character : Quiet, Gentle, Intelligent, Athletic, Independent
• Health : Susceptible to suffering from hereditary diseases
• Life expectancy : Between 7 and 10 years.

Origins and history of the Borzoi

The word Borzoi is a generic term that serves to categorize all visual tracking dogs born in Russia. In Russia there are different variants of sighthounds (a group of dog breeds with particular characteristics for moving quickly) for which the term " borzoi " has been used, such as the chortai , the tasy and the taigan , among others. In the West we know this breed as the descendants of the cross between saluki dogs and other sheep dogs. Another probable origin of this breed states that it is the result of crossing the Arabian greyhound with a thick-coated Russian breed. The rise of the Borzoi occurred in the last years of the Russian Empire, where they were used mainly for hunting wolves. Historically, they have been closely identified and linked to the aristocracy and Russian culture. There is evidence of its presence in Russia dating back to the 11th century . In the years before the Russian Revolution, some Borzoi were brought to the rest of Europe and America by breeders who were simply enchanted by the aristocratic image of these dogs. There they were given the name Russian Wolfhound . However, in 1936 and following an intense debate among breeders, its name was finally determined as Borzoi, derived from the Russian borzyi meaning "fast." They were very close to becoming extinct as a result of the poor conditions in Russia after the revolution. Fortunately they managed to save themselves, although the number of specimens is reduced compared to other times.

Physical characteristics of Borzoi

Also known by the names Russian Greyhound or Greyhound , they are generally tall dogs, with an elongated body and a dignified and aristocratic bearing embellished by harmonious and elegant lines. He is a thin dog, but don't think that his thinness is a sign of weakness. What's more, we are talking about an extremely strong greyhound . Specimens of this breed reach a height that ranges between 70 and 85 centimeters. Likewise, they can weigh between 35 and 50 kilograms. They present a sexual dimorphism that can be very evident. Females are generally shorter in height than males, but their bodies are usually more elongated. Otherwise, both sexes have strong bones, although not thick, and muscles that are not very developed compared to other dogs. Their complexion is very fine, a natural characteristic of greyhounds. Its head is long, sharp, and slender. Their eyes present a very interesting sweetness-suspicion dichotomy, which is accentuated by their oblique shape and dark almond colors. Their ears are small and generally drooping back. The back of its body is bony and gently arched, being more noticeable in males than in females. Its tail is long, curved, and fine. The coat of this sighthound is of medium length and variable depending on the area of ​​the body where it is found. The chest and thighs are the places where their fur is most abundant. Their color varies, and can be white, gold, gray or cinnamon, and they can appear uniformly or combined with each other. As their name suggests, they are very fast dogs , but they also have a very keen visual sense.

Borzoi Character

Throughout its history, the Borzoi breed has been accustomed to being raised by its owner and his companions. Because of this, it is a very trusting and affectionate dog with those it meets, but not very receptive with strangers, this is because they are not prepared to welcome new people into their lives. He may even have a tendency to bite strangers, so take precautions. However, they can get used to the presence of others in due time. The dog will be the one who decides when to approach and when not to, so you should not force him to allow himself to be pampered by strangers. As for children, the Borzoi is not an ideal dog for children under any circumstances. His character is not exactly playful, and despite being a very patient greyhound, he will not like to be overwhelmed by the childish behavior of children, nor will he allow them to climb on him. Their hunting tradition has turned this breed into very delicate and stealthy dogs when moving. He won't pounce on you when you get home, that's not his style. The Borzoi's gestures of joy are, if the expression fits, reverential. Let us remember that it is a dog bred in nobility. As they are used to hunting , they will feel especially comfortable in open places where they can move easily. Compared to other dogs, we could not say that this particular one is aggressive, although it can be arrogant, so in certain situations it can act aggressively. To address this issue, and also their interaction with strangers, we recommend that you adopt a Borzoi puppy and encourage their socialization with others from an early age.

Personal care of the Borzoi

Outings and walks

As we anticipated, this is a greyhound that likes open and natural spaces. He likes to exercise, so we can say that he is a dog that is better suited to rural areas than to urban areas , where he is more likely to run freely. If you are an active person who enjoys doing outdoor activities very frequently, the Borzoi can become your great ally. Borzoi love going outdoors so much that, if they are locked up at home for extended periods of time, they are susceptible to developing aggressive and nervous behaviors, in addition to becoming excessively barking. They don't have a very good tolerance when it comes to excessive heat, so you should avoid taking them out during the height of summer. The best thing for the borzoi dog, even if it doesn't like it, is to be inside your house. Be careful with high temperatures.

Cleanliness

Brushing the coat of specimens of this breed must be regular, at least every two days. When it is shedding season, it is necessary to brush daily to prevent your dog from shedding hair all over the house. Pay special attention to their hair after field trips to check and remove all spikes, thorns, weeds or parasites. Especially check the paws, feet, and ears. As long as you bathe him once a month he will be fine. Beyond this, borzoi dogs need all the care that other dogs require: visits to the veterinarian on regular basis and strictly reviewing the schedule corresponding to deworming and vaccinations. This way, you can ensure a long and healthy life for your borzoi.

Health

Specimens of this breed have a life expectancy between 10 and 12 years. In general terms, this is a very healthy breed of dog , there are no diseases associated with it except for hyperthyroidism, which is a hereditary condition, but which does not occur in all cases. However, like all dogs, there are certain ailments that can affect them, which is why we once again emphasize visits to the veterinarian. Some common ailments are metabolic bone diseases, stomach torsion and hip dysplasia. The latter is usually linked to the enormous intensity of the exercise. Borzoi are a breed that can develop a certain sensitivity to chemicals, such as antiparasites, anesthetics, etc.

Nutrition

The Borzoi is a large breed dog . In addition to having a big appetite, they need to have a balance in the proportion of nutrients they consume, including vitamins and minerals. Remember that they are prone to stomach bloating and other stomach problems. Small and frequent meals can minimize the risk of suffering from these ailments. If possible, the food rations that the Russian Greyhound should consume range between 600 and 700 grams. Puppies consume more food than adults since they are in the middle of their growth stage. As they develop, you will notice that the necessary food consumption will decrease progressively and in accordance with the age and size they acquire.

Conclusion

It is time to review some fundamental points:

• The Borzoi is a breed of dog native to Russia that had its heyday in the final years of the Russian Empire. Unfortunately, the Russian Revolution caused its population to decrease.
• They are a breed closely linked to the Russian aristocracy , therefore, their behavior and care tend to be somewhat specialized when compared to more conventional dogs.
• It is a very calm and obedient dog with its owner and his acquaintances, but it can react aggressively with strangers, so discretion is recommended when approaching them.
• It is not a dog suitable for children or their approach due to its behavior. They are patient, but they are not very playful.
• He can relate well with other dogs, but can be somewhat arrogant in front of them, causing unusual fights which owners should avoid at all costs.
• They like walks and running freely through open and natural spaces, which is why they adapt better to rural environments.
• They really enjoy exercising, but exercising too much can cause hip pain. It is important to set certain boundaries, but if you are an active person and love being outdoors, they can be very faithful companions.
• With the exception of inherited hyperthyroidism, Borzoi are a generally healthy breed of dog. However, you must be alert for any signs linked to metabolic bone disease.
• The hair should be brushed every two days, and the regimen should be daily when they are in the shedding season. You can bathe them once a month without any problem.
• The ideal portion of food that they should consume ranges between 600-700 grams per meal. Your diet should be balanced in nutrients, vitamins, and minerals.

As you may have noticed, Borzoi are a breed that you cannot approach in the same way as you do other more well-known dog breeds. Its aristocratic and noble past demands special requirements for its correct and efficient care. On the other hand, if you want to adopt a dog to accompany and play with your children, this breed probably should not be among your options. They are a friendly breed if you show them the trust and respect to which they are accustomed. In return, they will give you their loyalty and company, as well as their energy when going outdoors. If you are a person who likes to exercise, this is an ideal breed for you .