Tayga

Breed Description

The Taigan is a sighthound from the high mountains of Central Asia. There is much evidence of these hounds existing for thousands of years. The breed developed in the mountains of present-day Kyrgyzstan and Turkmenistan. It is still widely spread in the mountainous regions of Kyrgyzstan, especially in the Tian Shan, a high mountain range reaching up to 7400 meters.

The breed’s name likely comes from the term “Taiga” – impenetrable forests and areas of the northern regions, where these dogs exhibited their unique qualities. Their endurance, strength, and excellent hunting skills have made them invaluable helpers in challenging mountainous conditions.

Kyrgyz sighthounds are used for hunting goats, deer, foxes, badgers, and even wolves; they are also used as lures for joint hunts with birds of prey. Since the 1980s, they have become widely distributed throughout the former Soviet Union and eventually reached Poland. Today, there are two main types: valley and mountain. The stronger type is more common in the mountains: these dogs tend to be hairier and mostly black. In the valleys, the dogs are leaner and have less dense fur.

As early as the 1930s, Soviet scientists began documenting the breed characteristics of the Taigan, and the first licensing events took place. In 1964, the Kennel Council of the Soviet Union established the Taigan breed standard. However, this breed is still not recognized by international dog breeding organizations such as the FCI or the Kennel Club. In 2014, the breed was recognized in Germany by the VDH, where it is overseen by the German Greyhound Breeding and Racing Association. Currently, there are no registered breeding facilities.

Over time, the Taigan breed has undergone changes influenced by various cultures and needs. Modern representatives of the breed remain true to their roots, preserving the grandeur and strength of their ancestors. They continue to be excellent companions for active people willing to provide them with plenty of physical exercise and attention.

The temperament of the Kyrgyz sighthound combines balance, loyalty, and vigilance. They form strong attachments to their owners and are ready to give their lives for their protection. With proper upbringing and socialization, they become wonderful family pets and loyal friends.Kyrgyz sighthounds are not just a breed of dogs; they are a piece of history embodied in living beings that continue to impress and fascinate with their unique strength and character.The price for a puppy ranges from 90,000 to 120,000 rubles.

Appearance

The Taigan is a greyhound from Central Asia. It has the typical build of a large greyhound, characterized by its strength, which is enhanced by its long coat. It has a muscular, elegant physique that is both fast and powerful, showcasing its endurance. The Taigan has long legs for wide movements. Its head is elongated and equipped with particularly strong teeth. The eyes are set frontally, which is optimal for a focused hunter. The standard describes its appearance as: “Dry and strong, well-proportioned, larger than average, with well-developed musculature. Bones are sturdy but not heavy. The sexual type is well-developed.”

The coat is soft, long, and dense. In winter, the Taigan develops an undercoat. Numerous colors are allowed, such as black, gray, brownish, pale yellow, and all shades of white. Male Taigans stand between 65 and 70 centimeters at the withers and weigh between 18 and 25 kilograms. Females stand between 60 and 65 centimeters at the withers and weigh between 12 and 22 kilograms.

Kyrgyz greyhounds are very healthy animals and can live 12 years or more.

Отличительные черты

Голова

The head of the taigan is large and expressive. It is broad, with a strong, square skull. The skull smoothly transitions into a wide and deep muzzle.

Морда

The muzzle is strong and muscular. It is usually short compared to the skull, with a straight profile. The nasal area of the muzzle is straight and wide, making it ideal for hunting and holding onto prey.

Уши

The ears are usually of medium length and straight, close to the head. They are triangular in shape and positioned quite high on the head.

Глаза

The eyes are usually dark and expressive. They are set quite deeply in the sockets and give the dog a keen look.

Зубы

Tigers have strong and powerful jaws with a complete set of sharp and sturdy teeth.

Корпус

The body is powerful and compact, with a wide and deep chest that provides good lung capacity for endurance during prolonged activities.

Конечности

The paws are strong and muscular, with sturdy bones. They have a round shape and a moderate length.

Хвост

The tail is long and thick, usually carried up or slightly above the back.

Шерсть

The wool is thick, dense, and resilient to various weather conditions. It is usually short or of medium length, with a soft undercoat for protection against the cold. There is feathering on the tail and paws.

Окрас

The color of the taiga can vary, including various shades of gray, black, brown, or mottled patterns.

Character

The character of the Kyrgyz Borzoi breed aligns perfectly with their majestic appearance. They have a balanced and confident personality that highlights their loyalty and reliability as companions and guardians.

Kyrgyz Borzois are fast and strong hunters as well as excellent protectors. At the same time, they are intelligent and faithful companions. The Taigan has the determination and stamina for prolonged hunting in extreme high-altitude conditions. The standard describes the breed as: “Balanced, active, independent, reserved towards strangers. The Taigan is calm most of the time, even phlegmatic. He is devoted and friendly towards his owner. He does not tolerate rudeness. However, when he sees play, he becomes very excited. During hunting, he is very ambitious, strong, brave, and can make decisions independently without losing touch with the hunter.”

Taigans are known for their strong bond with their owner and their readiness to give their lives for their protection. They become very attached to their family and show a high degree of loyalty to their owners. These dogs are ready to follow their owners everywhere, whether on long walks or in thrilling adventures.

One of the key traits of Taigans is their calmness and composure. They do not succumb to panic or irritation, which makes them ideal companions in any situation. These dogs remain unshaken by external influences and can maintain their cool in stressful situations.

Nevertheless, Kyrgyz Borzois also possess a keen sense of danger and can be resolute defenders of their family and territory when necessary. Their instincts for protection are well-developed, and they are prepared to act quickly and effectively to safeguard their flock or owners from any threats.

When walking in nature with Taigans, they are always scanning the surroundings with their keen senses. Borzois have a different understanding of distances; what may seem far to us, they can cover in just a few seconds. You must always keep these dogs under control. Taigans behave well in groups and readily accept their owner’s leadership role. They are warm toward both two-legged and four-legged family members and are reserved but not aggressive towards strangers.Additionally, Kyrgyz dogs exhibit high levels of intelligence and trainability. They quickly absorb new commands and perform exceptionally well under the guidance of an experienced owner. These dogs love to participate in various activities, be it hunting, sports events, or simply playing outdoors.In summary, the character of the Taigan breed is marked by composure, loyalty, intelligence, and reliability. They make excellent family pets and loyal friends who will always be by your side in difficult times and bring joy with their presence in everyday life.

Care and Maintenance

Taking care of the Taigan breed requires a diligent and caring approach, but it is not difficult. The breed is undemanding in many respects and can even be kept in an apartment in a big city. However, it is essential for the dog to have opportunities for physical activity, engaging in runs over both long and short distances several times a week.

Kyrgyz greyhounds are very active and energetic dogs that need ample physical activity and a moderate training regime. Regular walks, playtime, and sports activities will help them maintain good physical condition and strengthen their bond with their owner. Taigans are very easy to train. To ensure they receive the activity and exercise they need, dog clubs offer opportunities to participate in dog racing and coursing. When raising one, you should always keep in mind their hunting instincts. The Kyrgyz greyhound is not only an excellent companion but also a superb guard dog, although they bark infrequently.

Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in the health and well-being of greyhounds. It’s important to choose high-quality food that suits their age, size, and activity level. Regular meal times and portion control can help prevent issues with overweight or underweight.

Kyrgyz dogs have dense and thick fur that requires regular grooming. Weekly brushing helps remove dead hair and prevent mats and tangles. Bathing is recommended as needed to keep the coat clean and healthy. Regular veterinary visits and check-ups can help detect and prevent various illnesses and health problems. Vaccinations, deworming, and preventive measures against fleas and ticks are also important for ensuring comprehensive protection.

Kyrgyz greyhounds are intelligent and trainable, making socialization and training from a young age very important. Positive training methods, such as praise and rewards, will help them become well-mannered and balanced dogs.

Finally, it’s essential to remember that Taigans, like all dogs, need love, attention, and involvement from their owners. As devoted and loyal companions, they cherish the time spent with their families and appreciate the care and attention they receive.Taigan dogs are wonderful pets that will bring joy and pleasure to their owners with proper care and sufficient attention. Investing time and energy in their care is rewarded by their loyalty and love, which they abundantly show to their owners.

Training and Education

Training and education of the Taigan breed dogs are important aspects of their upbringing, allowing them to become well-behaved and balanced pets. Kyrgyz greyhounds are sensitive to the moods and emotions of their owners, making it crucial to use positive training methods based on praise, encouragement, and rewards. This helps them feel confident and motivated during lessons.

When training Taigans, it is important to be systematic and consistent. Lessons should be conducted regularly, taking into account their age, abilities, and needs. Each lesson should build on previous experiences and gradually increase the level of difficulty.

Socialization plays a key role in training Kyrgyz greyhounds. The earlier they begin to interact with various people, animals, and environments, the better they adapt and learn to behave in different situations.

Taigans have strong personalities and can be independent, so it is essential to maintain control over their behavior. They should be trained to follow commands reliably, especially in cases of threat or danger.

Kyrgyz dogs are very energetic and love to be active, so it is important to incorporate physical exercise and play into their training routine. This helps them express their energy and maintain their health and fitness.

It is important to remember that training Taigans can take time and will require patience and tolerance. They may be stubborn or cautious when faced with new tasks, so it is essential to remain calm and patient throughout the training process.Each Taigan is unique, so considering the individual needs and characteristics of each dog during training is crucial. Some may be more inclined towards certain activities or commands, so it is important to adapt lessons to their specific requirements.Overall, training and educating Taigans require patience, consistency, and love. With the right approach and motivation, these amazing dogs can become excellent companions and loyal friends, delighting their owners with their intelligence, devotion, and wonderful character. Reliable sources offer healthy puppies with documentation and pedigree.

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a Taigan breed puppy is a significant step, as you will need to care for your pet throughout its long life, constantly engaging with it and ensuring it gets the necessary amount of exercise. Before starting your search for a puppy, it’s essential to research the Taigan breed. Familiarize yourself with their characteristics, needs, and personality traits so you’re prepared for what lies ahead. It’s important to understand that this is a true sighthound that requires regular running and hunting.

Selecting the right breeder is one of the key aspects of purchasing a puppy. Seek recommendations from other dog owners or look for information online about breeders’ reputations. Ensure that the breeder adheres to all standards, provides appropriate documentation of the puppy’s lineage, and maintains good living conditions for their animals.

When inspecting puppies at a kennel, pay attention to their health and breed standards. Puppies should look healthy, active, and have clean, shiny coats. They should also conform to breed standards in terms of color, head structure, body type, and other characteristics. If possible, try to meet the puppy’s parents to evaluate their temperament and behavior. This can give you insight into how your future pet might develop and which traits it may inherit from its parents.

Don’t hesitate to ask the breeder questions about the puppy, its parents, living conditions, and the breeder’s previous experience. The more information you gather, the easier it will be to make the right decision regarding the puppy purchase.

Ultimately, trust your intuition when selecting a puppy from a breeder. You should feel that this is the right choice for you and your family and that this little friend will be a loyal and dependable companion for many years to come.

Choosing a Taigan breed puppy is an important step in your life and in the life of your future pet. Approach this process with responsibility, patience, and love, and you will certainly find the perfect companion that brings you joy and happiness for many years to come. Want a purebred pet? You can find one with documents from reputable breeders at Zooinika.

Health and Diseases

The health of Kyrgyz greyhounds, like any other breed, plays a crucial role in their overall well-being and quality of life. Although greyhounds generally have robust health and longevity, there are several key aspects to consider.

Like other breeds, greyhounds can have genetic predispositions to certain diseases. This may include hip dysplasia, heart disease, skin issues, and other hereditary conditions. When choosing a puppy, it’s important to pay attention to the health history of the parents and request relevant documentation from the breeder.

Since Kyrgyz dogs tend to be very active, insufficient exercise and improper nutrition can lead to obesity. This can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases, arthritis, and other health problems. Keeping your pet in good physical shape and monitoring their diet is essential.

Due to their thick coats, greyhounds can be prone to various skin problems, such as allergies, dermatitis, and infections. Regular grooming and checks for parasites can help prevent these issues.

Because of their large size and powerful musculature, greyhounds may suffer from joint pain and arthritis. Regular veterinary check-ups, as well as supporting joint health through proper nutrition and exercise, can help prevent or alleviate such problems.

In addition to regular veterinary visits, it’s recommended to keep track of vaccinations, deworming, and protection against fleas and ticks. This will help prevent many infectious and parasitic diseases that can threaten the health of the greyhound.It’s important to remember that regular care, proper nutrition, physical activity, and attentiveness to health can help your greyhound live a long, happy, and healthy life. Considering? There is a vast selection of listings on the Zounika map by city.