Hounds Dog Group - Borzoi

The Borzoi, or Russian Wolfhound, was used in imperial Russia from the 17th century for wolf coursing-the Borzoi tracked the wolf, when it was beaten from cover, but did not kill it. The dog's task was to grab the wolf by the neck and throw it, whereupon it would be killed with a blow from a dagger. Originally there were various strains of Borzoi, including the Sudanese Borzoi, but the strain developed in Russia forms the basis for today's breed standard.The name comes from the Russian word, borzii, meaning swift.

Coat: Silky, flat, and wavy or rather curly; never woolly.

Color: Any color acceptable.

Features: Long, lean head, in proportion to overall size; dark eyes with intelligent, alert expression; small, pointed cars; chest deep and narrow; long tail.

Size: Minimum height at withers: dogs 29 in, bitches 27 in. Weight: dogs 75-105 lb, bitches 15-20 lb or less.

Care: Requires considerable space and exercise. Should be kept away from livestock; coat needs little attention.

Character: Elegant, intelligent, and faithful, but a little aloof.