Dogs named Tazy clinch seven victories in their first world competition, triumphing in Helsinki.
Kazakh Tazy: A Cultural Symbol Shines on the Global Stage
The Kazakh Tazy, a traditional sighthound breed with deep historic and cultural significance, has made a significant impact on the international canine scene. Recognized as one of the Zheti Kazyna (Seven Treasures) of Kazakhstan, the Tazy has been prized for its hunting qualities and is considered a symbol of Kazakh heritage and identity.
In 2023, Kazakhstan took formal steps to preserve and promote the Tazy and Tobet breeds. A national law dedicated to their protection was signed by presidential order, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs was tasked with promoting these breeds internationally. The Union of Dog Breeders of Kazakhstan became a full member of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in August 2023, enabling Kazakhstan to represent its national breeds on the global stage, including the Tazy.
The Kazakh Tazy made its sensational international debut at the World Dog Show 2025 in Helsinki, Finland. The breed won seven major championship awards, immediately attracting global attention from breeders and canine experts for its genetics, health, and working qualities. This debut was a cultural highlight especially for the Kazakh diaspora and showcased the breed as a vital cultural symbol of Kazakhstan internationally.
Following the success at the World Dog Show, the FCI granted Kazakhstan provisional recognition as the standard holder of the breed in September 2024, with full formal recognition expected by 2034 contingent on ongoing breeding and international presence.
The Kazakh stand at the World Dog Show was designed in the style of a traditional yurt, serving as a cultural showcase and drawing strong interest from visitors worldwide. President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev congratulated the Kazakh Union of Cynologists on the Kazakh Tazy breed's first official international presentation. He also gifted Kazakh Tazy dogs to French President Emmanuel Macron and renowned Kazakh artist Dimash Qudaibergen.
Zheti Kazyna, which encompasses key aspects of Kazakh life, including intellect for survival, mobility, hunting, protection, family, and culture, reflects the values and ideals of traditional nomadic society in Kazakhstan. In Turkic culture, Zheti (the number seven) is often considered sacred and symbolizes harmony. The Kazakh Tazy, as one of the Seven Treasures, embodies this harmony and cultural significance.
The success of the Kazakh Tazy at the World Dog Show 2025 marks a significant elevation in the breed’s global status, promoting Kazakhstan’s history and culture worldwide while fostering international cooperation in canine preservation. Soon, Kazakhstan will celebrate the Day of Kazakh Dog Breeds - Tazy and Tobet, officially designated for Sept. 3.
- Kazakhstan's sports-betting industry could take inspiration from the success of the Kazakh Tazy in the international canine scene, aiming to further promote their cultural symbols and attract global attention.
- With the Kazakh Tazy's proven genetic, health, and working qualities, it may offer an interesting subject for comparative sports-betting analysis with other hound breeds, especially in upcoming dog shows.
