Borzoi

The large Russian sight hound known as the Borzoi is a domestic breed. Similar in appearance to the Kyrgyz Taigan and the Afghan hound probably explains the fact that they came to Russia from the Middle Asian countries. Borzoi males usually weigh an excess of 100 pounds. Despite the large size of these sighthounds, the overall influence is of elegance with solid strength.

Borzoi comes in various colours and shades that make wonderfully highlighted combinations of fur. The silky top-coat is long and falls flat with wavy or curly hair whereas the soft undercoat is unusually thick in winters. This dense coat is shed in the hot seasons like summer and spring to prevent a heat stroke. With its shiny distribution of fur along its curvy body, the borzoi is one of its kinds.

Some borzois have lived for more than 14 years though they are expected to live up to only 10 years or so. Like every other breed of dog, Borzois are prone to health problems and diseases. Dogs that are active and fit in their youth are healthier when they grow older. The borzoi is a sound breed and diseases such as OCD, hip and elbow dysplasia are not seen much though various types of cancers and cardiac problems are noticed. These are usually the reason why these dogs die earlier than expected.

A unique condition recognized as Borzoi Retinopathy has been noticed in some dogs which differ from progressive retinal atrophy in several ways. Gastric torsion is one of the most common diseases among the deep chested borzoi. Another critical condition observed in this breed is known as the bloat. This is not purely genetic and is believed to be more anatomical. Several owners say that it is healthier to feed the dog from a level higher than the ground instead of placing the dish directly on the floor to avoid bloat. Also, the dog should get a few hours of rest after eating.

These dogs grow a lot during their first two years and should not be put on a highly nutritious diet as it is dangerous for skeletal growth whish might lean towards joint problems and damage to the bones as they grow older.

The borzoi is built for speed and is a self-sufficient dog. Most of these dogs prefer remaining silent and bark only when necessary. They are very friendly and cannot be relied on raising alarm in case of an emergency. They are a gentle breed and don’t exert aggression toward humans. Since they keep to themselves and reserve a private space they can get nervous or fidgety around children until they are trained and the same goes with other small domestic animals.

Borzois are quick learners but they get bored easily with repetitive training. Because of their size and agility they perform well in reasonable obedience and other trials. They do not like to be subjected to harsh treatment and can be stubborn sometimes.