Activities For A Borzoi

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Introduction

With looks typical of their cousin, the Greyhound, Borzois are characterized by long and trim legs, deep chest, narrow body, long head and an elegant stance. This Russian breed was originally developed to hunt wolves, hare and other creatures. Borzois carry themselves with much grace despite being tall and lanky. In fact, this breed is regarded as the most “glamorous” of all sight hounds. They were also favored by members of royalty and aristocrats back in the old days. But they also have a rowdy and powerful side to them; Borzois have an inherent impulse to chase anything that catches their attention. With the right amount of physical stimulation and constant attention, the Borzoi can become an excellent choice for a home pet. 

Dog Conformation

Popular
0 Votes
Any Day
Moderate
Normal
1 - 2 hrs
Items needed
Leash
Activity description

The Borzoi is considered to be an aristocratic dog breed, one that exudes elegance and grace. Furthermore, this breed is fairly rare in the United States. If you happen to own one and are proud of it, you may want to turn your beloved pet into a show dog. These dog shows are called “conformation” and are usually meant for dogs with “show quality”, meaning that they are the best ones to represent their breed. The participants of a conformation show are graded by experienced judges based on a set of standards (or a “blueprint” of their particular breed), which details how they should look or act. While this is a competitive event, a lot of dog owners join conformation shows to simply show off their purebred dogs. 

Step
1
Check if your dog is qualified
As simple as it may seem, clubs have a detailed list of requirements for dogs wanting to join a conformation class. It is best to check this list and see if your pooch is qualified to become a show dog. The requirements are generally the same, regardless of which club or organization you choose.
Step
2
Attend a dog show
The best way to learn about dog conformation is by attending an actual show. In doing so, you will understand the different rules and regulations and also get an idea of how the participating dogs are judged and scored. This will also help you gauge if you want to take things to the next level and have your dog become a participant.
Step
3
Join a local club
If you decide that you want to turn your Borzoi into a show dog, the next thing is to join a local club. You can opt for kennel clubs in your area or a breed-specific specialty club. A good example is the Borzoi Club of America, which is the American Kennel Club’s parent club for this particular breed. By joining a club, you will get insights from other members. You may also receive some training tips and other useful information that will come in handy when you finally join a dog conformation.

Lure Coursing

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0 Votes
Sunny Day
Moderate
Normal
30 min
Items needed
Stick or pipe
String
Plastic bag
Dog Toy
Activity description

Borzois are a member of the sighthound family, which makes them a particularly fitting choice for the canine sport of lure coursing. This event was originally created to specifically enable sighthounds to compete against each other in a modeled hunting scenario. In general, a lure course involves a zigzag path that is at least 500 yards long. A mechanical line-and-pulley is used to pull a lure, typically made of plastic garbage bags, and serves as a bait. Once the participating dogs are released, this lure is dragged around the course for the dogs to chase. This sport is a fun activity that Borzois will surely appreciate, given their affinity and impulse to run after things. 

Step
1
Practice on your own
Before going on the real thing and joining a lure coursing event, it is best to practice beforehand. This allows your dog to get a feel and understanding of the game. To practice, create a lure (also referred to as a “flirt pole”) which you will use to bait your dog. You can do this by attaching a string to a stick or pipe. On the other end of a string, tape a plastic bag. Some parents attach a lightweight dog toy to the flirt pole. This is a cheap but effective alternative to a lure coursing machine.
Step
2
Join the real thing
There are lots of kennel and dog clubs that offer recreational lure coursing events. Additionally, the American Kennel Club is one of the many clubs that offer a Lure Coursing Ability test, which is a non-competitive assessment designed to check out how your dog fares in a lure course. At the end of this test, you and your dog will receive a certificate from the AKC. Borzoi owners may even use this certificate to take things up a notch; the Borzoi breed is eligible to win a lure coursing title.

Ride Together

Popular
0 Votes
Sunny Day
Free
Normal
1 hr
Items needed
Collar or harness
Leash
Bicycle
Activity description

Borzois are athletic and can become excellent training or exercise partners. One of the activities that you can do together is cycling. With their speed, Borzois can keep up with a moving object, such as a bicycle. This activity will also serve as a good energy-burner for both you and your dog. It can also become your bonding time for the day. However, because of their tendency to run away and chase after others, you need to contain your pooch when going for a ride. The best way to do this is to have a sturdy leash or harness attached to you while you set out on your ride. 

Step
1
Prepare your equipment
To go on a bicycle ride with your Borzoi, you need to prepare some gear that will help keep your dog safe and secure. A strong cable, such as a bungee cord, and a body harness or collar for your dog are a must. This cord will then be attached to your through a belt that is worn on your waist.
Step
2
Cycle with your dog
Before riding, practice some of the basic commands, particularly “stop” and “go”. Make sure that your pooch knows these commands well as you might need to use them if your dog starts running too fast. Then, find a safe and non-crowded area and start riding on your bicycle with your dog tagging along.

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Grooming

With a long and silky coat, it is no wonder that the Borzoi is a high-maintenance dog breed. While the daily brushing can help keep their loose fur under control, a total grooming on a regular basis will come in handy. All you have to do is bring your pooch to a doggy spa and let the professionals take care of the rest. 

Jog together

With their hunting background, Borzois need to engage in regular exercise to stay happy and healthy. One of the easiest ways to work out a Borzoi is by running. A one and a half hour run per day is enough to keep them satisfied. However, bearing in mind the breed’s instinct for chasing, this activity must be done within a closed area. You may also keep your Borzoi securely leashed when going for a run.

Conclusion

The Borzoi is a big, athletic and fun-loving dog breed. If you are one of the fortunate ones to own this Russian breed, you should know how to properly take care of them in order to avoid any unwanted or negative behavior. A variety of physical and mental activities, coupled with some tender loving care, would do wonders in satisfying your Borzoi.