I Dream of Doggies

How to Groom a Borzoi (AKA Russian Wolfhound)

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Borzois are known for their elegant and regal appearance. Here’s a description of what a typical Borzoi looks like:

  1. Size: Borzois are a large breed with a lean and athletic build. They are tall dogs, with males typically standing 28 to 32 inches (71 to 81 cm) at the shoulder, and females slightly smaller, ranging from 26 to 30 inches (66 to 76 cm).
  2. Coat: They have a silky, long coat that comes in various colors, including white, black, cream, red, gray, and brindle. Their coat is straight and dense, and it can be wavy but should never be curly.
  3. Head: Borzois have a long, narrow head with a slightly arched forehead. Their eyes are dark and almond-shaped, and their ears are small, fine, and sit back along the neck when they are at rest.
  4. Neck: They have a long and gracefully arched neck, giving them a noble and dignified appearance.
  5. Legs: Borzois have long, straight legs with strong, well-defined muscles. Their feet are somewhat oval-shaped and compact.
  6. Tail: Their tail is long, low-set, and often covered with a luxurious plume of hair.
  7. Gait: When they move, Borzois exhibit a graceful and effortless gait. They are known for their exceptional speed and agility.
  8. Expression: Borzois have a calm and somewhat reserved expression, with a gentle and thoughtful demeanor.

Overall, Borzois are known for their striking beauty and sleek appearance, making them one of the most visually appealing dog breeds. However, maintaining this gorgeous appearance does require grooming. Keep reading to learn more about how to properly groom a Borzoi…

Borzoi grooming

Do Borzois Require Special Grooming?

Yes, Borzois do require special grooming due to their long, silky coat.

It’s important to start grooming routines early in a Borzoi’s life, so they become accustomed to the process. Grooming can be a bonding experience between you and your Borzoi and helps keep their coat healthy and free from mats and tangles.

If you are not comfortable with grooming, consider seeking the assistance of a professional groomer experienced with long-haired breeds.

How to Groom a Borzoi Step-by-Step?

Grooming a Borzoi can be a meticulous process due to their long, silky coat. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to groom a Borzoi:

Materials You’ll Need:

  • A slicker brush
  • A pin brush or a wide-toothed comb
  • A spray bottle with water or a dog conditioner
  • Dog shampoo
  • Towels
  • A grooming table or a stable, non-slip surface
  • A hairdryer
  • Scissors or clippers for trimming (if needed)

Step-by-Step Grooming:

  1. Brushing: Start by thoroughly brushing your Borzoi’s coat with a slicker brush. This helps remove tangles and mats. Work in small sections and be gentle to avoid hurting your dog.
  2. Bathing: Bathe your Borzoi with a dog-specific shampoo. Make sure to wet their coat thoroughly and lather the shampoo gently. Rinse their coat well, ensuring there is no shampoo residue left behind.
  3. Conditioning (optional): You can use a dog conditioner or a diluted conditioner/water solution in a spray bottle to make brushing easier and keep their coat soft and silky.
  4. Drying: Use a towel to gently pat your Borzoi’s coat to remove excess water. Then, use a hairdryer set to a low heat and low speed to dry their coat. Be cautious with the heat to avoid damaging their hair or drying their skin. Make sure to dry thoroughly to prevent matting.
  5. Brushing and Combing: Once the coat is completely dry, brush your Borzoi again with a slicker brush, followed by a pin brush or wide-toothed comb. This helps to ensure the coat is completely tangle-free.
  6. Trimming (if necessary): Depending on your Borzoi’s coat and personal preferences, you may need to trim the hair around their paws, ears, and tail. Be very careful when using scissors or clippers, and consider professional grooming if you are not experienced.
  7. Ear Cleaning: Gently clean their ears using a dog-specific ear cleaning solution and a soft cloth or cotton ball. Do not insert anything into their ear canal.
  8. Nail Trimming: If your Borzoi’s nails are long, use a dog nail clipper or grinder to trim them to an appropriate length.
  9. Teeth Cleaning: Brush your Borzoi’s teeth with a dog-specific toothbrush and toothpaste to maintain their dental health.
  10. Eye Care: Check their eyes for any signs of discharge or irritation, and wipe away any debris with a damp cloth.

Regular grooming is important to keep your Borzoi’s coat healthy and free from mats. The frequency of grooming depends on your dog’s lifestyle and coat condition, but typically, brushing at least a few times a week and regular baths as needed should suffice. If you’re unsure about grooming, consider consulting a professional groomer who is experienced with Borzois or long-haired breeds.

Jason Jensen
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