Taigan

As a member of the greyhound family, the dog has clearly expressed hunting instincts. If the animal lives in an apartment, you should keep an eye on him outdoors. He will not refuse to catch small animals for sport. At the same time, Taigans are not aggressive with humans. They quickly find contacts and become best friends. For Kyrgyz Sighthound, the connection with the owner is extremely important.

Breed Photos

Origin History

The first mentions of the breed go back to ancient legends, Tibetan, Chinese and Kyrgyz epics. The dog is described as a fearless friend sent by the heavens. The ancestors of the Taigan roamed with the Kyrgyz tribal peoples. They accompanied their masters, performing various functions. The main one among them was hunting. Traces of Kyrgyz greyhounds have been found both in central Asia and in Siberia. In the Tien Shan Mountains, which are located on five countries’ territory, the animals have lived for many centuries. Thus, representatives of the Taigans participated in the breeding of many breeds. There is no official data on the emergence and distribution of dogs; only conjectures of scientists remain.

The Kyrgyz Sighthound is considered more of a mountain dog than a steppe dog. To this day, representatives of the breed act as companions for mountain hunters. The animals perform their function even at an altitude of 4,000 meters, which is considered a greyhound phenomenon.

In the 1930s, the USSR began officially registering representatives of Taigans. But the standard was adopted only in 1964. World War II halted the development of the breed. Like other dogs, no one dealt with greyhounds during the war and for five years afterward. In 1995, the Council of Cynologists of Kyrgyzstan had adopted a new standard for the breed. Today in the home country, dogs are still popular among hunters.

Appearance

Representatives of the breed are endowed with a slender and trim body. Long wedge-shaped head with a straight muzzle. Oval eyes of brown hue. The nose is black or dark brown. The floppy ears are tight to the head and reach about 18 cm. The long and slender front legs are straight. The hind legs are set back and parallel to each other. The thin tail is shaped like a saber.

The Taiga’s coat is elongated and soft. It is shorter on the sides and back. Officially recognized black, white, black and white, gray, shades of pale. Brown and marbled colors are considered a deviation.

Character

As a member of the greyhound family, the dog has clearly expressed hunting instincts. If the animal lives in an apartment, you should keep an eye on him outdoors. He will not refuse to catch small animals for sport. At the same time, Taigans are not aggressive with humans. They quickly find contacts and become best friends. For Kyrgyz Sighthound, the connection with the owner is extremely important. Throughout its long history, they have lived side by side with humans. They easily get along with other dogs in the same house. But if a cat is placed under the same roof as the Kyrgyz Sighthound, a conflict may arise. In this case, it is better to introduce them at an early age.

The energy level of the breed is high. Therefore, regular long walks are required. The dog gets along best in a private home with a large area for activities.

Care

Comb your pet’s long hair once a week with a furminator. In the autumn-winter period, during the active molting phase, repeat the procedure every day. The pet does not need haircuts. Bathe the Taigan no more than four times a year.

From time to time, especially after vigorous exercise and walks in the park, check your ears, eyes, and teeth. Wipe ears and eyeballs with a cotton pad with water or a special solution. Twice a year, worming and vaccinations are recommended.

Training

Because of their natural hunting instincts, Taigans need active training. In their absence, animals can become depressed. It is a strong, sharp-sighted, and vicious game breed with a pronounced sense of smell.

Representatives hunt wolves, fox, badger, wild cat, etc.

It is recommended to start training at three to four months of age. During this period, the muscle corset, lungs, and psyche are formed. Intelligence allows the dog to remember any commands easily. The main thing is regularity and different types of activity with all family members.

Common Diseases

The hardy animal has good health. Taigans do not have any special problems. Thanks to immune support, training, and proper care, dogs live up to 18 years old. Problems with the bone skeleton may occur due to the active way of life and high loads. Eye and gastrointestinal diseases sometimes occur.

Nutrition

Two to three meals a day for an adult Taigan would be ideal. Until the baby is six months old, feed him 5-6 times a day in small portions. As he gets older, gradually reduce the number of meals. Take care of a sufficient dose of protein. Beef, lamb, by-products, eggs, fish, and cottage cheese will do. On top of everything else, Taigans love buckwheat, pearl barley, vegetables, and fruits. It is worth excluding completely:

• sausage;
• beans;
• sweets and flour;
• pork.