Overview
The Chortai is a heavily built running hound from the steppes of Ukraine and Russia. It looks a little like a Greyhound crossed with a short-haired Borzoi, yet it keeps all the hallmarks of a classic sighthound.
The breed is still uncommon outside its homeland. It suits experienced owners who understand sighthounds and can offer space, secure fencing and plenty of running.
History
The Chortai is thought to descend from the extinct Krymstaja and Gorskaja hounds and was prized by Russian nobles. One was shown at London Zoo in 1829 as a Russian Greyhound, but few ever left their home region.
After the October Revolution the noble kennels were abandoned and their dogs were crossed with local hounds, giving rise to the South Russian Steppe Hound. The breed gained Soviet recognition in 1952, yet numbers kept falling almost to extinction. Interest in pre-revolutionary breeds revived after the Soviet Union collapsed, and rescue efforts followed.
Appearance
A strong, well-muscled sighthound with a deep chest, tucked-up waist, long legs and a lean, elegant head. It is sturdier than a Greyhound and more substantial than most of its relatives.
The coat is short and smooth on much of the body, with some feathering on the ears, legs and tail.
Temperament
The Chortai is typically calm and quiet indoors, reserved with strangers and devoted to its own people. Like many sighthounds it can be independent and sensitive.
It has a strong chase instinct, so small animals may be seen as prey. Early socialisation helps it settle well into family life.
Care and exercise
This is a athletic hound that needs daily vigorous exercise, ideally in a safe, fenced area where it can sprint. It should not be let off lead in unsecured places because its prey drive is strong.
Grooming is easy with occasional brushing. Training should be patient and gentle, using rewards rather than harsh methods.
Health
The Chortai is generally considered a hardy, robust breed. Like other deep-chested dogs it can be at some risk of bloat, so feeding small meals and avoiding hard exercise after eating is sensible.
