The domestic breed named Borzoi, originating in the then USSR (now, Russia) was bred and brought in to the country with many features common to the greyhound. The borzoi, adorned with a silky coat, stoutly-built physique, narrow skull structure, and a head ending in a large black nose atop an elongated muzzle, have been an addition to the hunting-hound list by virtue of the gifted talent of their wondrous senses of smell and vision.
Other Nicknames |
Russian Wolfhound |
Coat | Long, silky |
Color | Black, white, grey, red (combinations) |
Group (of Breed) | Hound (sighthound) |
Lifespan | 10 to 12 years |
Weight | 100 – 120 pounds |
Height (size) | Large; 30 – 35 inches |
Shedding | Average |
Temperament | Quiet, athletic, intelligent, independent, gentle |
Good with Child | No |
Litter Size | 1 – 11 puppies at a time |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Drooling | Yes |
Barking | Very moderate |
Originated in | Russia, Belarus |
Competitive Registration | CKC, FCI, AKC, UKC, KCGB, CKC, ANKC, NKC, NZKC, BCUK, APRI, ACR, DRA, NAPR, ACA |
Bred by the Russian nobles back in the 1650s, the formerly popular ‘Russian Wolfhound’ is believed to have been developed from the Russian Bearhounds, and had been mentioned in works of art like in many literary pieces, paintings etc.
The most common mixes of the Borzoi by the breeders are those with the Collie, the Whippet, the Husky, the German Shepherd etc.
Unlike most dogs, these free-thinking dogs are not much prone to pleasing the humans, but can learn to be obedient, if trained as a puppy. Although sweet and loyal, they aren’t good with children and strangers and would be aggressive with anything moving, like small pets and animals like rabbit, hamster, cat etc. However, they interact comparatively better with other dog breeds. By nature, they are clean, and would constantly be busy cleaning themselves like cats.
For best results, train your puppy from the time when your own kid too is still a child. Train it to get used to its leash and also to consider you as its ‘pack-leader’ by leading it wherever you go. Train them consistently, but never rudely, for not chasing other animals, and about dog etiquettes and the differences between right and wrong by setting distinct rules. Professional or kindergarten training is also advisable.
4-8 cups of high quality dry dog food is recommended, divided into equal halves for their main meals. Three halves is also recommended, if your dog is prone to eating too much, but never more. Bloating and other gastroenterological problems being common issues with this breed, a proper amount of diet is advisable, rather than large meals, especially after their exercise regimes.
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