Borzoi
Borzoi are large, elegant sighthounds whose construction follows the ancient Greyhound template. A mature male will stand at least 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh 75 to 105 pounds. Females will be smaller. Once known as Russian Wolfhounds, Borzoi were bred to be swift and strong enough to pursue and pin their ferocious lupine quarry. A Borzoi in full stride is a majestic sight: a princely package of strength, grace, and glamor cruising at 35 to 40 miles per hour.
Grooming
Bathing the Borzoi: Since the Borzoi has a soft and wavy coat, we recommend using Silky Show Shampoo when bathing. The silk proteins will make the coat amazingly soft, plus add elasticity to keep the hair from breaking. Follow that up with Silky Show Conditioner to maintain that softness for even longer. Overall, the Borzoi has an easy coat to maintain and you’ll find it easy to keep it looking beautiful.
Between Bath Coat Care: Use Aloe Hydrating Spray between baths to control flaking and dandruff, especially in dry conditions. Apply some Quick Finish Styling Spray to help with brushing and you will notice the comb slide through the coat with ease. Perfect Calm Waterless Bath should be kept on hand, since this breed needs a lot of exercise and is likely to get dirty paws and legs. Just spray on and wipe off for a quick cleaning.
Eyes
Borzoi eyes should be alert and bright. Use Opti-Soothe Eye Wash during the bath to flush any foreign objects. Some eye odor problems have also been known to occur. If you notice a smell, then use Tear Stain Aloe Wipes to clean around their eyes. With the typical dark color on the face, you may not see the problem until you smell it.
Ears
Monthly ear cleaning with Ear Care is advised to ensure that no ear problems will arise. If weekly care is needed for an existing chronic ear condition, use Espree Ear Care Aloe Wipes. This routine will help keep any ear problems at bay. Remember, never clean further than you can see inside the ear.
Paws
Paw Balm should be used weekly as well. This will help maintain paw pads that are soft and pliable, which are less likely to dry and crack.
Common Problems
Coat and Skin: This breed is known to have a sensitivity to flea dips, so be sure to use something safe for your pet, such as Flea and Tick Shampoo. If the area you live in has fleas, you should use Flea and Tick Pet Spray or Flea & Tick Repellent Wipes before going on any walks in open areas or where fleas might be present. Keep Bug Bite Relief balm on hand to keep the itching at bay if your dog is bitten.
Bloat is common for this breed, so feed smaller meals at least two times per day and take care not to exercise them to soon after feeding.
Borzoi can be sensitive to anesthetics so be sure your vet is aware of this common problem before any surgeries are performed.