I wish I had a dollar for every time someone stopped me on the street and asked, "What kind of dog is that?"

My stock answer has become, "It's a Borzoi... a Russian Wolfhound...a sight hound...you know, a Greyhound with curls ." Of course, that's a little like summing up Gone with the Wind with, "It's a book about the civil war." True enough, but you're leaving all the juicy parts out.

If you want all the technical details, consult a book on dog breeds, or one of the several excellent sources of Borzoi lore and knowledge. My personal favorite is Life With Borzoi, by Phydelma Gillette. What I offer here is based on my personal observations, having lived with Borzoi for over 18 years. Borzoi are regal and elegant. Even though a large breed, they are basically of a quiet nature. They just don't go "woof, woof" all the time. Sweet and loving, they are a sensitive breed. And being a sight hound, they need plenty of room to run and play for proper development. They are quietly clever, and due to they're size they can and do enjoy checking out what's available on top of the kitchen counters. One dog that I know, would jump up and steal loaves of bread from on top of the refrigerator! So much for that hiding place.

Sometimes referred to as "aloof", they really just are particular as to what task is worth they're effort, as many are beneath them! They are not necessarily headstrong, they just tend to question the why of things. I don't think you own a Borzoi: you serve it, make it comfortable, groom it's hair, and in return you are graced with it's presence. All in one beautiful, big package.

Just in case you were wondering, the up side to life with Borzoi is well worth any down side. All of our dogs are wonderful companions. We really enjoy the time we spend with them- taking long brisk walks, playing couch potato, practicing for the show ring, obedience or agility, or just getting greeted after coming home from a long day.

Borzoi display probably odd behavior compared to many other types of dog. For example, all three of ours sleep next to the bed with they're heads well tucked under the dust ruffle. This works well to create the proper amount of darkness in the daytime to take one's nap. Also, lying in a plush carpeted hallway, on your back with all four feet up in the air and resting on the side of the wall is also quite comfy. Another favorite afternoon siesta position.Three Borzoi can actually fit in this position in one average home hallway. If you, the human occupant of the household has to walk down the hallway to get to other end, you carefully step over them. It doesn't matter if your carrying groceries, laundry, whatever, for they will not move.

Another very common personality trait that Borzoi display is how to get your attention if something is wrong. If you want to go out, or it's dinner time, many Borzoi walk calmly over to their caretaker and quietly lay their head on your arm or lap and stare up at you. That's all. No wiggling, no barking. Our Cambria is like this, she just stares up at you with those soulful eyes!

The Borzoi is not the dog for every one, but those that are awed by it's graceful beauty, reserved demeanor, and appreciate this uncommon breed- get love, devotion, true companionship, and a soul mate as they're reward. They truly are a very special breed, indeed.