|
Borzoi
– Russian Walfhound
A tall, elegant and
dignified-looking dog that has a history of popularity with
royal houses from Russia, throughout Europe and Great Britain.
History:
The Borzoi is most probably
descended from the Greyhounds of ancient Egypt and cross-bred
with the long-haired Russian sheep dog. The breed was fixed in
Russia by the sixteenth century. The Borzoi was bred as a
sight hound to hunt wolves in packs. The sight hound depends
on seeing the prey rather than following a scent.
Physical
characteristics:
The Borzoi is tall, slender,
and has an imposing stature. Height: 29 - 32 in (73.7 - 81.3
cm) for the dog and 27 - 30 in (68.6 - 76.2 cm) for the bitch.
Under Canadian standards, 28 - 32 in (71 - 81.3 cm) for the
dog and 27 - 30 in (68.6 - 76.2 cm) for the bitch. Weight: is
not standardized but approximately 70 - 80 lb (30 - 35 kg).
The Borzoi's head is long and lean, with a slightly domed
skull. The jaws are long, deep and powerful, with a scissor
bite. The nose is fairly large and black. The eyes are
almond-shaped, dark, obliquely set and well back.
The
ears are small, fine, narrow and pointed, and are set high and
back. The body has a gracefully rising arch from near the
shoulders, with well-sprung ribs and a muscular croup. The
legs are long and straight with well-muscled hindquarters. The
tail is long, set low and well-feathered. The coat is short
and smooth on the head, ears and front legs, with the neck
having profuse curls. Long, silky, and profuse feathering on
the body, hindquarters, and tail. The coat colors vary, with
white, black, and red markings being the most common.
Behavior:
This large, very elegant dog,
is capable of quite gentle behavior. The Borzoi makes an
excellent watch-dog, as it quickly becomes very protective of
members of its family and their possessions. This dog gets
along readily with members of its own kind. However, because
it is so big, it is wise to introduce it slowly to smaller
dogs so they are not afraid. This dog is readily trainable;
although instructions should always be consistent to avoid any
frustrations.
During
training it is advisable to remove other dogs and any other
thing capable of sudden fast movement. Owners of small dogs
can become very distressed if your Borzoi takes off after
their dogs in hot pursuit.
The
Borzoi can make a good family companion as it is normally very
tolerant of children. However, this large and powerful dog
should not be left alone with small children. It requires a
great deal of exercise to keep it fit and content. The feet
and lower legs should be regularly checked after high-speed
running.
 | 