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History
The Borzoi was probably first brought from Arabia to Russia in about 1600. There this elegant sight hound was adopted by the nobility, crossed with longer haired sheepdogs, and used as a fierce and brave wolf hunter, earning the name Russian Wolfhound. The Russian nobility bred and hunted with these dogs for hundreds of years. (For an interesting description of the grand Russian wolf hunt, see The Complete Dog Book, 17th Edition, AKC p. 198.) Eventually the Borzoi's popularity spread throughout Europe. Queen Victoria owned Borzois, and many of the British aristocracy soon followed suit. The breed became favored for gifts among royalty. The Borzoi became more docile as his use as a companion dog increased. The name comes from the Russian word "borzii", which means swift.
Description
A tall, aristocratic dog with a long narrow head and long, low-hanging curved tail. A heavy neck ruff is characteristic. The ears lie back on the neck, but may prick up partially when the dog is alert. The back is gracefully curved. The chest is narrow, but very deep. The longish silky coat may be white, golden, tan or gray with black markings, in either solid or mixed colors.
Talents
Hunting, sighting, and lure coursing.
Personality
Sweet, undemanding and undemonstrative. Intelligent and noble. Cat-like, silent and docile, but can be willful and snappish if pushed too far.
Behavior
Children: Best with older, considerate children.
Friendliness: Fairly friendly with strangers.
Trainability: Easy to train.
Independence: Fairly independent.
Dominance: Moderate.
Other Pets: Generally good with other dogs; do not trust with non-canine pets.
Combativeness: Can be a bit dog-aggressive.
Noise: Not a barker.
Notes
Though he can live indoors, the Borzoi needs regular exercise. Likes to roam and is incredibly fast—in the city, he should only be let off lead in a safe enclosed space. Not to be trusted with small pets such as cats and rabbits! His lightening snap can kill a small animal in a second. Sensitive to drugs. May be a picky eater and is prone to bloat. It is best to feed the Borzoi small meals two or three times a day.
Grooming
Grooming: Regular grooming needed.
Trimming & Stripping: No trimming or stripping needed.
Coat: Medium long coat.
Shedding: Seasonally heavy shedder.
Exercise: Needs lots of exercise.
Jogging: An excellent jogging companion.
Indoors: Relatively inactive indoors.
Apartments: Will be OK in an apartment if sufficiently exercised.
Outdoor Space: Best with at least an average-size yard.
Climate: Does well in most climates.
Owner: Not recommended for novice owners.
Longevity: Average (10 to 12 years).
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