The Borzois breed
Borzois
Borzoi: the elegant Russian sighthound
The Borzoi, or Russian Wolfhound, is a tall sighthound with an aristocratic bearing. Elegant, calm at home and lightning-fast in the field, it embodies canine nobility.
Origins of the Borzoi
Developed in Tsarist Russia from the 17th century for wolf hunting in packs. A favored companion of the aristocracy, it nearly disappeared after the 1917 revolution before being preserved by Western breeders.
Temperament and personality
The Borzoi is known for:
- Great gentleness in daily life
- A reserved and independent character
- Exceptional vision (sight hunter)
- Marked sensitivity
It is calm indoors and explodes into speed outside.
Training and socialization
Training requires patience and gentleness: never use harsh methods. Recall is hard to make reliable against prey. Early socialization is essential.
Health and care
The Borzoi is predisposed to:
- Gastric dilatation-volvulus (life-threatening emergency)
- Cardiomyopathy
- Sensitivity to anesthesia (like all sighthounds)
- Skin fragility
Its long silky coat needs weekly brushing.
The Borzoi in the family
Ideal for calm families with space, able to offer secure off-leash runs. Not suited to homes with small pets (chase instinct). Good with respectful children.
đ Summary
Elegant, gentle and lightning-fast, the Borzoi is an exceptional sighthound for fans of noble breeds, calm at home and demanding at the gallop.