Caring for Your Hortaya Borzaya: Key Health Concerns and Solutions

by Dani Graymore. Reviewed by Fitpetgo

Updated: Sep 15, 2024

Introduction

The Hortaya Borzaya is a rare and ancient dog breed that originated in Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. This sight hound is known for its speed, agility, and hunting prowess, making it a highly sought-after companion for outdoors enthusiasts. Despite its relatively unknown status outside of Eastern Europe, the Hortaya Borzaya has gained popularity worldwide due to its striking appearance and versatility.

General Care

The Hortaya Borzaya requires regular exercise to maintain its overall health and well-being. This breed is built for speed and agility, and as such, it needs a substantial amount of physical activity to stay fit. A daily routine that includes a 30-minute walk or run, followed by a few hours of playtime in a securely fenced area is recommended.

In addition to regular exercise, the Hortaya Borzaya also requires proper nutrition to sustain its energy levels and health growth. Feeding this breed two to three times a day with high-quality dog food that meets their specific calorie needs is essential.

The Hortaya Borzaya is a highly intelligent breed that responds well to training. Engaging in regular interactive play, providing mental stimulation through puzzle toys, and using positive reinforcement techniques are all effective ways to train this breed. Early socialization is also crucial to prevent any anxiety or aggression issues later on.

Hortaya Borzaya Issues

One of the most significant challenges faced by owners of this breed is their high energy levels and strong prey drive. Without adequate exercise and mental stimulation, the Hortaya Borzaya can become destructive, exhibiting excessive barking, scratching furniture, and other forms of unacceptable behavior.

Furthermore, the Hortaya Borzaya has a relatively short lifespan compared to other dog breeds, with an average life expectancy ranging from 11 to 13 years. This shortened lifespan is mainly attributed to the breed's genetic predisposition to certain health issues.

Feeding a Hortaya Borzaya

Meeting the nutritional needs of a Hortaya Borzaya is crucial, as this breed requires a specific diet that accounts for its high energy levels and growth demands. The following feeding guidelines are applicable:

• Puppy stage (up to 12 months): Feed 3% of the dog's body weight in food per day

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Diet

When selecting the best food for your Hortaya Borzaya, it is essential to factor in their individual size and energy requirements.

Recommended Daily Nutrition:

• Protein (min 22%)
• Fat (30-42% of daily calories)
• Carbohydrates (30-50% of daily calories)

Common Food Issues to Watch for

Some potential red flags to monitor when selecting the right diet include:

• Excessive barking, whining or restlessness
• Weight gain/loss or muscle conditioning issues
• Insatiable appetite and eating more than three times a day