The Borzoi (pronounced “BOR-zoy”), once known as the Russian Wolfhound, is an elegant and aristocratic sighthound breed with a flowing coat and graceful demeanor, originally bred to hunt wolves across the Russian countryside and cherished by Russian aristocracy for their beauty and hunting prowess.
Breed Snapshot
When seeking a dog of this caliber, this dog breed profile highlights the Borzoi as a large breed canine originally called the Russian Wolfhound, developed as a coursing hound to pursue wolves and other large game. The American Kennel Club recognizes this breed as a member of the Hound Group, ranking it as the 101st most popular dog breed. Known as the aristocratic Russian dog, borzois are large and combine grace with athleticism in their long haired flowing coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its beauty.
Vitals and Life Span
Height
M: 28+ inches, F: 26+ inches
Weight
M: 75 to 105 lb, F: 60 to 85 lb
Life Span
9 to 14 years
Breed Group
Hound
Origin
Russia
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Personality Traits
Ratings based on typical breed characteristics for this elegant breed known for being gentle, calm, and dignified with an independent spirit.
History of the Borzoi
The history of the Borzoi spans centuries, with this Russian dog originally known as the Russian Wolfhound developed in Russia during the Middle Ages by crossing Arabian Greyhounds with thick coated Russian breeds. The first Borzoi standard was established in 1650 and remained largely unchanged for centuries. The Russian aristocracy prized these hunting dogs for their ability to course wolves across vast landscapes, keeping hundreds for grand hunts that required train cars to transport the canines, horses, and hunters.
Russian Origins in the 1600s
These canines were created by crossing Arabian Greyhounds with thick coated Russian shepherd breeds to create a sighthound capable of hunting in harsh Russian winters. The combination produced dogs with both speed and the coat necessary to survive brutal cold.
First Standard Established in 1650
The first Borzoi standard was established, defining the breed characteristics that would remain largely unchanged for centuries. This early documentation helped preserve the breed’s distinctive appearance and hunting abilities.
American Recognition in 1891
The American Kennel Club officially recognized the breed, originally called the Russian Wolfhound, establishing it in America. This recognition helped spread the breed beyond Russia’s borders.
Russian Revolution Crisis
Following the Russian Revolution, many were killed due to their association with the Russian aristocracy, nearly driving the breed to extinction. Their connection to the nobility made them targets during this turbulent period.
Modern Era Revival
The breed survived through careful breeding programs worldwide, transforming from hunting dogs to beloved companions while maintaining their aristocratic appearance and gentle nature.
Temperament & Family Life
The temperament is characterized by a gentle and calm nature combined with aristocratic dignity. Borzoi can be sensitive to their environment and may be standoffish with new people, but they form strong bonds with their families while maintaining an independent spirit. Borzoi are generally healthy dogs with a laid back personality, making them suitable family dogs for those who understand their sighthound nature and can provide proper care and attention.
👨👩👧👦 Family Compatibility
These canines can be wonderful family dogs when properly socialized. Borzois are known for being gentle and calm with children, though their size requires supervision around small dogs and smaller pets. However, immature puppy and adolescent specimens may be too exuberant for very small children or frail older people. For those seeking a dog with a calm temperament, the Borzoi breed can be the best dog choice for experienced owners.
🏃♂️ Exercise & Activity
As sighthounds bred to hunt, they require regular exercise but are not high energy. Adult specimens will be happy with an hour or more of walking each day, ideally with freedom to run in secure spaces. They enjoy sprint runs rather than long endurance activities, much like their greyhound cousins. Unlike many dog breeds, they also excel in dog sports like lure coursing, which appeals to their natural instincts.
🧠 Training & Intelligence
These canines are intelligent but independent, which can make dog training challenging. They respond best to positive reinforcement methods and may appear stubborn during training sessions. This is not an adult dog who is likely to enjoy training for the sake of training itself. Careful management is needed, as well as training as you go along rather than specific sessions. To ensure your dog succeeds, patience and consistency are key.
🎭 Personality
These canines are known for their dignified, regal demeanor combined with a gentle nature. They are typically reserved with strangers but affectionate with their families, displaying the calm confidence of their noble heritage. They can be sensitive dogs and aloof, preferring companionship to their humans and not liking to be left alone for too long. The Borzoi may be standoffish initially but warms up to trusted family members.
Physical Characteristics
The Borzoi is a large dog with a graceful build typical of sighthounds. Their most distinctive feature is their long, flowing coat which can be flat, wavy, or curly. The Borzoi coat requires special attention due to its length and texture, as dogs shed more during seasonal changes. The narrow head with a long snout and lean body give them the agile appearance necessary for their original hunting purpose, while their deep chest provides the lung capacity needed for high speed pursuits. They can run up to 40 miles per hour.
Size & Build
Males typically stand 28 inches or taller and weigh between 75 to 105 pounds. Females are slightly smaller at 26 inches or taller and weigh 60 to 85 pounds. They have a tall, lean, and graceful structure that embodies elegance and athleticism.
Coat Characteristics
Their long haired flowing coat may be flat, wavy, or curly and requires regular brushing to prevent mats and tangles, especially during seasonal shedding periods. The silky texture and flowing appearance are hallmarks of the breed.
Distinctive Features
They have a narrow head with a long snout, small ears, deep chest, and long curved tail. All colors are acceptable though white with patches is most common. Their aristocratic bearing is unmistakable.
Borzoi Health & Wellness
Borzoi health considerations show they are generally healthy dogs with relatively few breed specific health issues compared to many other giants. The Borzoi breed is generally a healthy, robust one with few hereditary disorders. However, like all giant breed dogs, Borzoi are prone to certain conditions that owners should monitor. Regular veterinary care from VCA Animal Hospitals or similar facilities helps ensure your pet remains healthy throughout their life.
🔴 Primary Health Concerns
Bloat (Gastric Dilatation Volvulus): The most serious health concern is bloat, where the stomach fills with gas and twists, cutting off blood supply. They are prone to bloating and stomach problems due to their deep chest structure.
Prevention involves feeding smaller, frequent meals and avoiding exercise immediately after eating. Seek immediate veterinary care if symptoms appear.
🟡 Moderate Health Concerns
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: Hip and elbow dysplasia can occur when joints form incorrectly. Health testing should include screening for these orthopedic conditions, though they’re less common than in other giants.
Other Conditions: Progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, and sensitivity to anesthesia are other health concerns that owners should be aware of.
🔵 General Health Status
Overall Robust Nature: Despite potential concerns, most Borzois live healthy lives when provided with proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary monitoring throughout their 9 to 14 year lifespan.
As a large breed dog that may be prone to joint issues as they age, providing proper joint support throughout their life is essential. This is especially important for these elegant sighthounds who need to maintain their graceful movement and athletic ability.
Megaflex Complete Nutritional Supplement for Joint Care for Dogs, Puppies, Cats and Kittens
Essential for giants prone to joint issues. Supports healthy cartilage and mobility as adult Borzoi age, helping maintain their graceful movement and athletic ability throughout their lives.
View on AmazonCaring for Borzoi: Grooming & Daily Care
Caring for Borzoi requires attention to their distinctive coat and exercise needs. The long haired coat needs regular maintenance to prevent matting, while their sighthound nature requires specific exercise considerations. The flowing, wavy coat will need regular brushing and combing several times a week. Due to their size, professional grooming may be required for full bathing and drying. For households where these canines shed heavily, proper grooming tools become essential for managing their beautiful but high maintenance coat.
Coat Maintenance & Exercise Requirements
Coat Maintenance
Brush two to three times weekly with a firm bristle brush to prevent mats and tangles, but daily brushing is best during shedding seasons. They shed throughout the year and go through a heavy shedding period once a year. Staying on top of brushing helps manage this. Bathe as needed with gentle shampoo, though the breed doesn’t typically require frequent bathing.
Exercise & Space Requirements
This is a large breed that requires space to stretch out, a garden suitable for running in, and access to secure running space. Always use a leash or fenced area as the Borzoi may chase small animals due to their hunting instincts and keen sight. Due to the time it takes these canines to mature, they are not suited to going up and down stairs frequently.
A high quality grooming brush is essential for managing the flowing coat and reducing shedding in these elegant dogs. The dual function design helps groom both the long outer coat and softer undercoat effectively, preventing tangles in their long locks while maintaining their aristocratic appearance.
MalsiPree Pet Grooming Brush for Dogs/Cats,2 in 1 Deshedding Tool & Undercoat Rake
Perfect for managing the flowing coat and reducing shedding. The dual function design helps groom both the long outer coat and softer undercoat effectively, preventing tangles in their long locks.
View on AmazonNutrition & Feeding
Proper nutrition is crucial due to their size and deep chest, which makes them prone to bloat. Giants, as well as having appetites, benefit from a different balance of nutrients including minerals and vitamins compared to smaller breeds. High quality dog food formulated for giants provides the best nutritional foundation. For comprehensive feeding guidance tailored to sighthounds, visit our food guide for detailed recommendations.
Feeding by Life Stage
Puppies (8 weeks to 18 months)
Giant puppy formula with controlled calcium levels helps prevent rapid growth that could affect joint development. Feed three meals per day on a regular feeding schedule to reduce bloat risk and support steady growth patterns. Monitor growth carefully as these are giants that mature slowly and need careful management during this time.
Adults (18 months and older)
High quality giant formula with appropriate protein levels supports their lean build and active nature. Feed two meals daily rather than one meal to prevent gastric dilatation volvulus (bloat) in this deep chested breed. Avoid exercise for one to two hours after meals. Free feeding isn’t recommended as these slender canines can easily become overweight.
Special Considerations
Bloat Prevention
Smaller, more frequent meals can help minimize bloat risk in this breed prone to stomach problems. Use elevated feeding bowls to reduce air intake during eating. Monitor eating speed as these independent minded canines can be fussy eaters but may also eat too quickly.
Weight Management
Maintain lean body condition appropriate for sighthounds as they should appear naturally slim with their delicate frame. Adjust portions based on activity level and individual metabolism, consulting with veterinarians for guidance.
Finding a Borzoi: Breeder vs Rescue
When seeking a dog of this caliber, potential owners can choose between adoption through a shelter or rescue or working with a reputable breeder who health tests their breeding dogs. A price from breeders depends on location, reputation, and lineage, ranging from $1,500 to $5,000. Contact the Borzoi Club of America for referrals or search Petfinder for available canines through Borzoi rescues and rescue groups.
Shelter or Rescue
Consider rescue first, you can save a life!
Benefits of Rescue:
Adult personality is established, making it easier to find a good match for your family situation. You’ll typically pay lower initial costs and receive ongoing support from rescue organizations experienced with the breed.
Many rescues specialize in sighthounds and understand their unique needs, providing valuable guidance for new owners.
Canines available for adoption through rescues may already be socialized and trained, making the transition to your home smoother.
Reputable Breeder
Research thoroughly and verify health testing and breeding practices.
Essential Checklist:
Look for health clearances for parents including hip and elbow X-rays, eye examinations, and thyroid testing. Quality breeders will have extensive knowledge of breed characteristics and proper placement of puppies with suitable family dogs.
The best breeders provide lifetime support and show willingness to take back canines if circumstances change.
They should have honest discussions about the exercise needs, sighthound nature, and space requirements before placing a puppy.
Always consider rescue first, you can save a life and find a wonderful companion! Many sighthound rescues specialize in breeds like the Borzoi and can provide invaluable support and guidance.
Famous Examples
Throughout history, these canines have been associated with grace and nobility, appearing frequently in art, literature, and popular culture as symbols of beauty and aristocratic heritage. They often appear in art and advertising because of their striking appearance and regal bearing.
Hollywood Status Symbol
In early Hollywood, they were popular dog companions of female movie stars, often appearing in publicity photos representing luxury and sophistication. Their elegant appearance made them perfect accessories for the glamorous lifestyle of the era.
Royal Companions
Russian aristocracy kept hundreds for grand wolf hunts, with the breed becoming synonymous with noble Russian heritage and lifestyle. These elaborate hunting parties were legendary events that showcased both the dogs’ abilities and their owners’ wealth.
Modern Fame
Today, they continue to capture attention through social media, with famous examples like Eris gaining millions of followers for their distinctive “noodle horse” appearance and expressive faces. Their photogenic qualities make them naturals for the digital age.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are these canines the best dog for first time owners?
They can be challenging for first time owners due to their size, exercise needs, and independent nature. They’re better suited for experienced pet parents who understand sighthound characteristics and can provide proper care and attention.
Why are they so rare despite being such a popular dog in art?
The breed is still quite rare today, particularly in the U.S., where the AKC ranked it number 101 on its list of most popular dog breeds. Also, because these canines weren’t exported from Russia in high numbers in the past, their numbers may be low in certain parts of the world.
Are they aggressive?
They do not have a reputation for being aggressive, though this breed does have an instinctive hunting drive. Many coexist happily with other canines and smaller pets like cats, but it’s important to introduce them slowly when they are still a puppy, if possible.
Do they make good apartment pets?
They can adapt to apartment living if given adequate exercise, but their size and need for running space make them better suited to homes with yards. They do well in apartments but benefit from a fenced in yard where they can run safely.
What should I know about exposing your dog to different environments?
Early socialization is important as they can be sensitive and may be shy around new people. Gradual, positive exposure to different people, places, and situations helps them develop confidence and become comfortable in new situations.
Making the Right Choice
The Borzoi represents a unique combination of aristocratic elegance and gentle companionship, making them ideal for experienced dog owners who can appreciate their independent nature and provide the space and care they require. These magnificent sighthounds bring centuries of Russian heritage into modern homes, offering their families a devoted companion with unmatched grace and dignity. While they require understanding of their sighthound instincts and regular grooming for their flowing coat, the reward is a relationship with one of the most beautiful and characterful breeds in the canine world. For those seeking a dog that embodies both history and elegance, the Borzoi offers an extraordinary partnership built on mutual respect and gentle affection.
