Borzoi

Characteristics

Health & Longevity

Average Life Span: 7-10 years
The Borzoi has overall good health for the most part, but these purebreds have a few health issues that require closer attention. Your Borzoi might be one of the healthier pups that remain in good health throughout their lifetime. Or, your Borzoi might get the bad end of the proverbial genetics lottery, racking up one health issue after another as he ages. There is no way to be 100% sure of the overall health of your pup from a young age. But health check-ups can go far towards early detection and the general good health of your Borzoi.

Two of the most prominent health complications that could affect your Borzoi are:

Bloat

This condition occurs when the fluid and gas become trapped and twisted in the belly, causing bloat and immense pain. The condition can be life-threatening and very traumatic, so it is important to alert your vet at the first signs of bloat. Symptoms include paleness, weakness, a threadbare pulse, excessive drooling, and a horribly distended abdomen. Surgery is often required to untwist the belly and drain excess fluid and gases.

Von Willebrand’s Disease

This condition is a bleeding disorder that occurs when the clotting element is missing from the blood. It is due to a lack of plasma protein. Symptoms include excessive bleeding from the mouth, nose, and anus, as well as weakness, paleness, and depression. Treatment of this condition depends on the severity, but blood transfusions and hospitalization are for the worst cases.

Other health conditions that may affect the Borzoi inclue a plethora of eye problems, such as cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy, as well as hypothyroidism, hip and elbow dysplasia, and bone cancer. The average lifespan for a Borzoi is 7 to 10 years, which is at least three years shorter than the average purebred.

Temperament & Train-ability

Borzois are, by nature, elegant, graceful, and beautiful, with a touch of stubbornness, charm, and energy. These pups are very active, so they would benefit from fitness-minded pet owners. While a fenced-in backyard would give them lots of room to explore, these pups would prefer to romp on a jog with their loved ones. Exercise-wise, this is the best form of fitness and bonding time for your Borzoi. So, strap on her leash and go for a run. She can definitely keep up, and might even give you a run for your money.

The Borzoi boast a high intelligence that can be challenging when it comes to training sessions. On the one hand, her intelligence is a good thing because she can grasp commands and instructions with ease, and quickly. On the other hand, she is strong-willed and independent, making her prone to ignoring your commands completely to test your authority. Instead of getting frustrated or upset, be patient when she brushes off your instructions. Repeat and encourage. Eventually, she will realize that training is a good, beneficial thing that will have a positive effect on the bond that the two of you share.

Grooming

Borzoi pups have elegant, lengthy, wispy hair that requires a moderately extensive grooming regime to maintain health and overall beauty. The coat is smooth and sleek, but daily brushing is necessary to catch excess hairs and detangle any forming knots. These pups are exceptionally tall too, so conventional bathtubs might be a challenge once the Borzoi reaches her full height. If that is the case, take her to a professional groomer every 6-8 weeks for a full bath, brush, and trim.

The Borzoi is generally a low shedder, but hot weather turns her into a heavy shedder. Keep her hair brushed and trimmed. And keep a vacuum handy for any stray fur she leaves in her dog bed or on your furniture.

Diet

Borzois are dainty, delicate pups that eat in a dainty, delicate manner. However, they still need wholesome, filling meals to keep their tummies satisfied and their health excellent. Divide 2-3 cups of dry, high-quality kibble into two meals each day, preferably once in the morning and once at night. And make sure your Borzoi has an automatic water dish in both the kitchen and living room. Keep it filled to provide her with optimum hydration, especially in the summertime.
 

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Borzoi Puppies For Sale

Adopt A Borzoi

Cost

Also known as the Wolfhound, the Borzoi is a rare breed, often featured in AKC shows. These dogs are less for strictly family companions, but the price depends on your purpose. Companion Borzois cost between $1,000 to $1.200, but Borzois with AKC show qualities cost quite a bit more, around $1,800 to $2,000. The difference is the documented bloodlines and extensive health histories of the ancestors of the Borzoi litter. If this is something you are not concerned about, then opt for a companion pup.

You should also think about the short-term and long-term costs of owning a Borzoi. These pups have shorter lifespans than most purebreds and a few more health issues that could pop up at any moment. You need a fund for medical emergencies, just in case—as well as nutrient-dense kibble, chew toys, a microchip, leash and collar, and a professional groomer or trainer (when necessary). You will also need funds for semi-annual vet check-ups. Never, ever skimp on the medical care of your Borzoi. Their overall good health depends on your dedication to their care.

Paws ‘N’ Pups Ranking

Paws ‘N’ Pups ranks every breed out of 4 with 1 being easiest to integrate into your life and 4 being the toughest – The lower the ranking the better.

Ranking takes into account a few basic factors including cost, skill level needed, high vs low maintenance and how critical regular training is to success. The Borzoi scores a 1.5 on the integration scale. These dogs are hounds, so naturally, they have a streak of independence that might make it a challenge to train them at first. However, with plenty of love, patience, and encouragement, you can break through the initial stubbornness, transforming your hardheaded Borzoi into a sweet, obedient family pet.

 

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