Caring for your Borzoi

Quick answer

Borzois are elegant hounds that require consistent daily routines and careful monitoring of their physical health. By maintaining a structured schedule for feeding, exercise, and health checks, you can identify potential issues early. This guide covers the specific health conditions associated with the breed and provides practical steps for managing their well-being at home.

Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus

This condition involves the stomach twisting, which acts as a medical emergency. This is well recognised in the breed. Owners will first notice a swollen, hard abdomen, unproductive retching, or extreme restlessness. The vet will perform an abdominal X-ray to confirm the twist. This is a life-threatening situation where every minute counts, so seek emergency care immediately if you suspect it. A common mistake is waiting to see if the dog settles down, which wastes critical time.

Osteochondritis Dissecans

This is a condition affecting the cartilage in joints. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You might notice your dog developing a subtle limp or showing reluctance to jump or climb stairs. The vet will use physical manipulation of the joints and imaging like X-rays to see the cartilage defect. How this passes down is not settled. Ensure you monitor your dog for any change in gait during your daily exercise logs.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy

This heart muscle disease affects the heart's ability to pump blood effectively. This is well recognised in the breed. Early signs include a slight decrease in stamina, a soft cough, or increased breathing rate while resting. The vet will use a stethoscope to listen for murmurs or rhythm changes and confirm the diagnosis with an echocardiogram. How this passes down is not settled.

Hip Dysplasia

This involves an abnormal formation of the hip socket. This is a recognised tendency in the breed. You may notice your dog having difficulty rising from a lying position or swaying in the hindquarters. The vet will conduct a physical exam and use X-rays to assess the fit of the hip joint. How this passes down is not settled. Keep your dog at a healthy weight to reduce the burden on their joints.

Daily Care and Health Logs

Managing a Borzoi requires attention to detail. Because they are sensitive dogs, keep their feeding times consistent and separate them from other pets to manage resource stress. Use your daily health logs to track not just exercise, but also their appetite and energy levels. Check their coat and skin regularly, as their long fur can hide lumps or skin irritations. Glancing at their ears, nails, and teeth during these checks helps you catch small problems before they become big ones. Always adjust exercise based on the weather, as heat can be particularly hard on this breed. Finally, practice alone-time training early to ensure your dog feels secure when you are not home.