Learn More About Borzoi

Summary

The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a sighthound of impressive size and grace. With its slim silhouette, long, muscular legs and deep chest, it is reminiscent of a work of art. He belongs to FCI Group 10 of greyhounds and is characterized by his high speed and endurance. What is particularly striking is the long, silky fur, which is particularly pronounced on the chest and neck and gives the Borzoi an almost royal appearance. His eyes are dark and almond-shaped, giving his expression an extra depth. In Germany this breed is rather rare and there is no distinction between performance and show lines.

Character

Borzois are characterized by a strong sense of self-confidence and a natural calmness. They are known for their deep bonds with their people and their loyalty, but also tend to maintain a certain degree of independence. They are generally calm dogs and very pleasant companions around the home as long as they receive adequate exercise and mental stimulation. They love being in nature and pursuing their natural urge to move. Although they have a strong hunting instinct, this can usually be easily managed with proper socialization and training. However, it should be noted that this is a natural instinct that can never be completely suppressed. Therefore, the Borzoi should always be kept under control and kept on a leash in areas where wildlife is present. As former hunting dogs, they are attentive and alert, but not aggressive. Although they can exhibit highly protective behavior towards their home and family, they are generally very friendly towards strangers. They are also good at getting along with other dogs and pets, especially if they are used to it from a young age. Borzoi are intelligent and can stay alone well as long as they are not left alone for long periods of time. They love their family and prefer to be close to them. They are not prone to exhibit destructive behavior as long as they are not bored or stressed. The Borzoi's even-tempered temperament makes him a pleasant companion, both indoors and during outdoor activities. But despite his calm nature, his needs as a greyhound should not be underestimated. This dog needs room to run and mental stimulation to be happy and balanced. His grace and majestic demeanor coupled with his friendly and gentle nature make the Borzoi an exceptional companion dog for people willing to meet the breed's specific needs.

What to Expect

Borzois need a lot of exercise and are very motivated to hunt. Dog owners repeatedly report cases of borzoi chasing a smaller dog. Serious injuries can occur here. Therefore, good socialization and upbringing is very important here.

Care

Despite their size, Borzois are good city dogs as long as they get enough exercise and mental stimulation. They get along well with small children and can also live with other pets, including cats, as long as they are properly socialized. However, they require a well-fenced yard as their hunting instinct is strong and they tend to hunt anything that moves.

Training & Education

Borzois are intelligent and independent dogs that require a little patience and understanding in training. They do not respond well to harsh training methods, preferring instead positive reinforcement. Their need for exercise makes them good candidates for dog sports such as agility or coursing. It's important to nurture their skills and independent nature while setting rules and boundaries. They don't tend to be "ball junkies" but they enjoy different types of games and activities. It's also important to teach them to control their impulses and tolerate frustration, especially when it comes to their hunting instincts. This can be achieved through various exercises and training techniques. When raising a Borzoi, it is important to find a balance between nurturing their natural talents and abilities and adhering to the necessary rules and boundaries for harmonious coexistence.

Nutrition & Grooming

Borzoi require a balanced diet that contains all the necessary nutrients. They are not prone to being overweight, but because of their slim figure, it is important to keep an eye on their diet and ensure that they do not become underweight. A mix of high-quality dry food and fresh foods such as meat and vegetables can be a good solution. However, it is always advisable to seek advice from a veterinarian to ensure the dog is receiving all the nutrients it needs. When it comes to grooming, the Borzoi is a little more demanding due to its long and silky coat. They have an undercoat that protects them from the cold, but they can tolerate the German climate well. However, they shed quite a bit, especially during the spring and fall shedding period. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting and to keep the coat clean and healthy.