Overview
The Taigan is a sighthound from the Tian Shan mountains of Kyrgyzstan, close to the border with China. It is closely related to the Tazy and the Saluki.
It hunts mainly by sight and speed, though it can also follow a scent trail and retrieve game. It is known for stamina at high altitude and versatility.
History
The Taigan has been kept by mountain hunters in Kyrgyzstan for generations, often working alongside trained golden eagles. Its quarry includes marmot, hare, fox, badger, wildcat, ibex, roe deer and even wolf.
Since the break-up of the Soviet Union the population has declined. The Russian Kennel Club has recognised the Taigan and the Tazy and has sought out good breeding stock to help preserve both.
Appearance
The Taigan is a lean, athletic sighthound built for endurance. Its medium-length coat is slightly curly, with feathering on the ears, legs and tail.
Colours vary widely, from white and various shades of fawn to grey and black.
Temperament
The Taigan is a hardy, independent hunter, usually reserved with strangers and devoted to its own people. Like many sighthounds, it has a strong chase instinct.
It is quiet in the house when exercised, but needs experienced owners who understand primitive, self-reliant hounds.
Care and exercise
This breed needs lots of daily exercise and safe, fenced space to run, since its instinct is to chase anything that moves. Off-lead walks in open areas should be approached with care.
Grooming is modest: brushing weekly and checking the feathered areas. It is not suited to a cramped urban life.
Health
The Taigan is considered a hardy, robust breed, with no well-documented breed-specific health problems.
