BTW cassiesmom- Femka didnt have a scratch. I saw blood, scared me to death, but it was the bears.. lol. Hydrogen peroxide took it out. There isnt any undercoat to mat. They also do not like getting their feet dirty- but warning- they love snow!! I have stated this before, but when it snows, I have to put collars on them to make them come in!
I like the fact they are not tail waggers. At their size they could clear any table if they did. They are very aware of their size, and its a good thing they are not fawners or a goldens mentality at a borzoi size! Males are easily a 100 pounds- females top 80's but usually 90. I prefer the males. I love the longer coats.
Also- most borzoi people feed raw. I have found now by using Bil Jac mixed with solid gold it does work. But be prepapred.. lol.. Trying to get one is worse than adopting a child. Waiting lists are common- and I waited 7 years for Zubin and I had a previous background in showing dogs etc. The litters are small for the size of a dog- usually 6 pups- and the bitches do not come in but every 18 months to 2 years is normal. It also takes them a long time to grow that coat. They grow like a weed the first year, then start filling out and finally about 14 months the coat starts coming in. Zubin and galina are just now putting theirs on. And its coming in fast and furious. Seldom do you get alot of hair from a young borzoi, but even hottie only fills a pin brush- and considering the length and amount of coat, that is less than you would get on a shepherd.
Obviously you can not let them run in a unfenced area they do not know. They can totally fly, and quickly out of ear shot. Hottie was whistle trained. ( that meant come) and traveled the field. As far as exercise- they really are couch pototoes- but do like a good walk. Until two months ago, I walked one mile down and one mile back. But they have quickly adjusted to just cruising the yard. They call them the seniors dogs because of their demeanor as being quiet and not hyper. They also will not jump on you. This is taught. And good luck! Hottie might with coaxing, and he is over my head- Galina will if you persist and keep getting her silly. Even then- the paws hit so light you barely know you have a dog on you. ( this is NOT a normal dog.. lol.. )