Borzoi is a dog breed from the sight hound family (a family of dogs that hunt by sight and not by scent). It is also known as the Russian wolfhound and originates from Russia.http://www.akc.org/breeds/borzoi/did_you_know.cfm In the 17th century the borzoi was bred by the Russian aristocracy as a hunting dog basically for its swift movements and speed. The name “borzoi” means “swift” in the Russian language.http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/borzoi

A typical borzoi has a narrow head, slender body, long legs and a silky coat that can be of any color combination. They are naturally intelligent and well mannered and are very good family pets. Borzoi puppies should be taught to socialize so that they won’t grow up to be timid and reticent. They require proper grooming, good nutrition and daily exercise to maintain their beautiful coat and remain agile.http://www.5stardog.com/dog-breeds-borzoi.asp

The borzoi breed has become popular in dog shows, such as the Crufts dog show, which is usually held annually at the National Exhibition Centre (NEC), Birmingham, England. The Crufts dog show is a breed show in which a judge evaluates competing purebred dogs, to see how well they conform to their breed standard. The show was created in 1886 by Charles Cruft, and the first Crufts show was held in 1891 at the Royal Agricultural Hall, Islington. When Charles Cruft died in 1938, his wife took over the show and organized the 1939 show, but sold it out after three years to the kennel club. The first Crufts show organized by the kennel club was in the 1948, and since then, the show has grown from strength to strength. The Crufts dog show is the biggest show in the world and the “best in show award” which it gives is considered the highest dog award in the world.http://www.crufts.org.uk/history-crufts

The Borzoi is generally a healthy and agile breed. The breed does not have any illness associated with it, but may suffer from other dog diseases such as Autoimmune thyroid disease, Osteosarcoma, bloat, Metabolic bone disease and Elbow hygromas. Before you buy a borzoi puppy it is advisable to ask the borzoi breeder about any hereditary diseases the puppy might have. http://pethealthlibrary.purinacare.com/breed/borzoi/ The life expectancy of a healthy borzoi is between 10-12 years, but with proper care and love the borzoi might live longer.

The Borzoi was bred as a hunting dog in the past century, and to date it’s still used for that purpose but mostly bred as a companion dog. The borzoi puppies usually grow up to be great sprinters and chasers. Little house pets like rabbits and hamsters should be kept away from the sight of the borzoi to prevent them from being hurt. If well trained, Borzoi will do well in any agility test.http://www.5stardog.com/dog-breeds-borzoi.asp>