BORZOI Breed Standards
Borzoi (from the Russian borzii meaning ‘swift’) or dogs very much like them have been known since the 13th century in Russia, where they have long been used by nobles and the upper class for the purposes of hunting. Crosses with large Russian sheepdogs and bearhounds gave the Borzoi the thick coat it needed for the Russian climate. The Borzoi was principally used to hunt wolves, and was therefore called the Russian Wolf Hound. Borzoi would attack a wolf in groups of two or three, pinning it to the ground until the human hunters arrived.
The Russian aristocracy bred the Borzoi for hundreds of years, and by 1861 hunting with Borzoi escalated to the point of becoming the national sport of the aristocracy. But as the Russian aristocracy fell to the communists during the early 20th century, many Borzoi were killed in Russia and the breed largely died out in its native land. Luckily, enough Borzoi had been given to foreign aristocracy over the years to ensure the breed’s survival.
In 1889, the first Borzoi arrived in America from England; the breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1891. Today the Borzoi is greatly valued for its good looks, intellect and gentle nature. In the west, it is still used by some farmers to control nearby coyote populations.
SKILLS: Hunting by sight of large and small game, companion. The Borzoi was originally bred for the coursing of wild game on more or less open terrain, relying on sight rather than scent. To accomplish this purpose, the Borzoi needed particular structural qualities to chase, catch and hold his quarry. Special emphasis is placed on sound running gear, strong neck and jaws, courage and agility, combined with proper condition. The Borzoi should always possess unmistakable elegance, with flowing lines, graceful in motion or repose. Males, masculine without coarseness; bitches, feminine and refined. The Borzoi is a tall, aristocratic dog with a long, thin, narrow head. A slightly arched muzzle and a long, low-hanging curved tail. Heavy-necked ruff is characteristic
SIZE: The shoulder-height is 70-82cm (27 1/2-32 1/4in) for dogs, and about 5cm (2in) shorter for bitches.
COAT: The coat consists of soft, medium-length wavy hair. Accepted colors are white, gold, red, grey, black, black roan, and patched.
CARE REQUIRED: The coat needs regular grooming. Trim excess hair from between the pads of the feet. During the growing stage, these dogs need a highly nutritional diet.
CHARACTER: These are proud and self-aware dogs that are loyal to their family. They are also good-natured, equable, calm when indoors, and somewhat independent. The Borzoi may be difficult to understand. When necessary, these dogs will protect your home.
TRAINING: The training of the breed has to be based upon mutual respect. They really are not very obedient dogs but they can learn the basic requirements for living with you.
SOCIAL BEHAVIOR: These dogs do not like intrusive strangers. They are noble animals that get on fairly well with children but they are certainly not playmates. They prize their rest and do not like rough play. They are usually fine with like-minded dogs. Its is advisable to train them socially with cats and other pets as young as possible, but they will always be hunters that and will race after a fleeing animal.
EXERCISE: Indoors the Borzoi can be so peaceful it might escape notice but outdoors it needs lots of space to walk and run. In some countries it is forbidden to allow all the dogs in this fleet-footed hunting category off the leash. They usually enjoy running alongside a bicycle but beware - a Borzoi is quite likely to shoot off after any prey it catches sight of. You will need to react very quickly if this happens.
