Borzoi

1879 Borzoi Flock

Tikhmenev (1904) Wolf hunt with borzois

Sarah Bernhardt Clairin Henderson

Medalowy borgoj

Borzoi black female

Three Borzoi

Borzoi
A Borzoi
Other names	Russian Wolfhound
Origin	Russia
Dog (domestic dog)

The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a breed of domestic dog (Canis lupus familiaris). They are known for their elegant appearance and graceful movement. The breed was developed in Russia and has a long history as a hunting dog, particularly for hunting wolves.

History

The Borzoi has its origins in Russia, where it was bred by the Russian aristocracy for hundreds of years. The breed was developed by crossing the Arabian Greyhound with a thick-coated Russian breed. The Borzoi was used primarily for hunting wolves, foxes, and hares. The breed was highly prized by the Russian nobility and was often given as gifts to other European royalty.

Appearance

Borzoi are large, elegant dogs with a distinctive long, silky coat. They have a narrow, elongated head and a graceful, arched neck. Their bodies are long and lean, with a deep chest and a tucked-up abdomen. The coat can come in any color or combination of colors, and it requires regular grooming to maintain its condition.

Temperament

Borzoi are known for their gentle and calm demeanor. They are typically quiet dogs and are known to be affectionate with their families. Despite their hunting background, they are generally good with other dogs and pets if properly socialized. However, they do have a strong prey drive and may chase small animals.

Health

Borzoi are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to certain health issues. These can include hip dysplasia, bloat, and certain heart conditions. Regular veterinary check-ups and a healthy diet can help manage these risks. The average lifespan of a Borzoi is between 7 to 10 years.

Care

Borzoi require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. They enjoy long walks and have a natural inclination to run, so a secure area where they can safely run off-leash is ideal. Their long coat needs regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling.

Related Pages

• Dog
• Sighthound
• Russian aristocracy
• Hip dysplasia
• Bloat

See Also

• List of dog breeds
• Hunting dog