The Borzoi can survive in an apartment as long as she gets frequent exercise. A properly fenced yard could be better for her but keep in mind that she can easily jump a six foot fence. Once she gets on the run, she may catch a scent and be gone. She can not be trusted around small animals including the neighbors cat. She can kill an animal before you can stop her. She is ok with children but this is iffy. She dislikes roughhousing, arguing and likes her rest. She seems to be a one person dog that can be difficult to train. She is royal looking and beautiful.

Approximate Adult Size

The approximate adult size (two years old or older) of the male Borzoi is at least 28 inches to the withers (highest point of the shoulder) and 75 to 105 pounds and the female is at least 26 inches to the withers and 60 to 90 pounds.

Special Health Considerations

Most dog breeds have certain inherited health problems associated with that specific breed and the Borzoi is no exception. Keep on the look out for gastric torsion (life-endangering distension of the stomach with gas), retinal atrophy (inherited disease of the retina that can cause vision loss and blindness), heart disease, and Osteosarcoma (bone cancer). They are also possible sensitive to certain drugs especially anesthetics and topical insecticides. This disease list is an informative guideline only. Other diseases may also be significant threats, please contact your veterinarian for a complete list.

She should visit the veterinarian several times in the first year for shots, boosters and check up. Then, as an adult, she should visit the veterinarian yearly for shots and check up. As she gets older, six years and on, she should visit the veterinarian twice a year for check ups and shots. Remember; avoid feeding your dog sweets.

Grooming

The Borzoi has a long, silky coat with waves or curls. She should be brushed regularly. She is a seasonally heavy shedder. Brushing will help her maintain a clean and healthy coat and also help you keep a closer eye on her health and strengthen your emotional bond with your pet. Her hair between her toes also needs to be maintained.

Her teeth should be brushed at least twice a week with toothpaste and toothbrush designed for dogs. Brushing removes the accumulation of plaque and tartar which can cause cavities (rarely) and periodontal disease. Dog periodontal disease can lead to pain, loss of teeth, bad breath and other serious disease.

Her toenails may need to be examined for growth and clipped regularly. The toenails of the rear feet grow slower than the toenails of the front feet. Generally a guillotine type trimmer is the best for this chore and competent instructions to accomplish this can be found on the net.

Life Span

The Borzoi can live between 10 and 12 years with proper nutrition, medical care and excellent living conditions.

History

The Borzoi is thought to hail back to the thirteenth century nobleman who used them to hunt. They were first registered with the American Kennel Association in 1891.

Some Registries