Borzoi
Updated November 30, 2025
The Borzoi, or Russian Wolfhound, is a large, elegant sighthound bred for coursing wolves. They are known for their calm, agreeable nature, and incredible speed. While they are affectionate family companions, their strong hunting instincts require careful management.
Gentle, Quiet, Intelligent, Independent, Affectionate
60-105 pounds
26-33 inches
9-14 years
White, Black, Cream, Tan, Red, Sable, Brindle, Black and Tan
At a Glance
Good with Kids
Jump to Section
About Borzoi
The Borzoi, or Russian Wolfhound, is a large, elegant sighthound bred for coursing wolves. They are known for their calm, agreeable nature, and incredible speed. While they are affectionate family companions, their strong hunting instincts require careful management.
What Makes Borzois Special
The Borzoi is a picture of elegance and grace, combining a noble bearing with a gentle and somewhat reserved nature. They are loyal and affectionate with their family but can be aloof with strangers.
As sighthounds, they possess incredible speed and a strong desire to chase. Indoors, they are typically calm and quiet, enjoying lounging in a comfortable spot. Their independent spirit requires a patient and understanding owner.
Borzoi History & Origin
The Borzoi's history dates back to 17th century Russia, where they were developed by the aristocracy for hunting wolves. They were created by crossing Arabian Greyhounds with a thick-coated Russian breed. For centuries, these dogs were cherished by the Tsars and could not be bought, only received as gifts.
The first standard for the breed was written in 1650.
The Russian Revolution of 1917 led to the slaughter of many Borzoi due to their association with the aristocracy, nearly causing their extinction.
A few Borzoi had been gifted to individuals in America and England, which helped to preserve the breed.
The breed was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1891.
Today, they are more often seen as glamourous companions and show dogs rather than hunters.
Borzoi Characteristics
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Borzoi Appearance
The Borzoi has a distinctive, aristocratic appearance with a long, narrow head, and a gracefully arched back. Their silky coat and elegant build give them a unique and striking look.
They carry themselves with a dignified presence. Their powerful and agile build is a testament to their history as swift hunters.
Physical Features
Ears
Small, fine in leather, and pointed at the tips. They are set high on the head and are folded back, resting on the neck. When the dog is alert, the ears are raised.
Eyes
Large, dark, and set obliquely. They have an almond shape and a soft, intelligent, and gentle expression.
Nose
Large and black, projecting somewhat over the teeth.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is long and silky, and can be flat, wavy, or curly. There is a profuse frill at the neck, and feathering on the hindquarters and tail.
Coat Color
Any color or combination of colors is acceptable. Common colors include white, black, tan, cream, red, and various shades of brindle, often with white markings.
Tail
Long, set on low, and carried in a graceful curve. It is well-feathered.
Borzoi Temperament
Borzoi are known for their calm and quiet nature indoors, often being referred to as 'cat-like' in their demeanor. They are affectionate with their families but can be reserved and aloof with strangers.
They possess an independent mind and can be stubborn, which means training requires patience and consistency. They are sensitive dogs and do not respond well to harsh training methods.
Despite their large size, they are graceful and can move with surprising agility. Their sighthound instincts are strong, and they have a high prey drive, which means they are prone to chasing small animals.
While generally good-natured, their play style can be robust, involving chasing and neck nipping, which might not be suitable for all other dogs. Early socialization is crucial for them to develop into well-adjusted adults.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
Borzoi are generally a healthy breed with a lifespan of 9 to 14 years. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions that owners should be aware of.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, proper exercise, and screening for genetic conditions are recommended to ensure a long and healthy life.
How to Care for a Borzoi
Borzoi are relatively low-maintenance for a large breed but have specific needs regarding exercise, grooming, and training. Their independent nature requires a patient and understanding owner.
Grooming
The Borzoi's long, silky coat requires brushing two to three times a week to prevent matting and remove loose hair, especially behind the ears and on the feathering.
They shed seasonally, and during these periods, daily brushing may be necessary to manage the amount of hair.
Bathing should be done as needed. Regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and dental care are also important aspects of their grooming routine.
Training
Training a Borzoi can be challenging due to their independent and sometimes stubborn nature. They are intelligent but get bored with repetitive tasks.
Positive reinforcement methods, using praise and treats, work best. Training sessions should be kept short, engaging, and fun.
Early socialization is vital to expose them to various people, sounds, and situations to help them become well-rounded adults. A strong recall command is important, but they should not be trusted off-leash in unfenced areas due to their high prey drive.
Diet
A high-quality dog food appropriate for their age (puppy, adult, or senior) and activity level is recommended. The diet should be rich in protein.
Due to their deep chest, they are at risk for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus). It is advisable to feed them two smaller meals a day rather than one large one and to avoid strenuous exercise around mealtimes.
Monitor their weight to prevent obesity, which can put stress on their joints. Fresh, clean water should always be available.
Exercise
Borzoi need regular exercise, including long daily walks on a leash. They also need opportunities to run freely in a securely fenced area.
They are sighthounds and have a strong instinct to chase, so they should never be allowed to run loose in an open space.
Activities like lure coursing can provide a great outlet for their natural running instincts. Despite their athleticism, they are generally calm and quiet indoors.
Environment
Borzoi can adapt to apartment living as long as they get sufficient daily exercise. However, they appreciate a home with a large, securely fenced yard where they can run.
They are generally quiet dogs and are not prone to excessive barking. They do best in a calm and stable household.
Their large size means they need adequate space to stretch out and relax comfortably.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
While they enjoy having a yard to run in, they can adapt to apartment living if their exercise needs are met.
Climate Adaptability
They tolerate cold weather well but can be sensitive to heat.
Apartment Living
Can be suitable for apartments due to their calm indoor nature.
Best Suited For
Best suited for experienced dog owners who appreciate the unique sighthound temperament.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Borzoi good family dogs?
Borzoi can be good family dogs and are generally gentle with children they have been raised with. However, their large size and boisterous play can be overwhelming for very young children.
How much do Borzoi shed?
Borzoi are seasonal shedders and can shed quite heavily. Regular grooming helps to manage the shedding.
Can a Borzoi live in an apartment?
Yes, a Borzoi can live in an apartment if they receive adequate daily exercise, including opportunities to run in a secure area.
Are Borzoi easy to train?
No, Borzoi are not considered easy to train. Their independent and intelligent nature means they can be stubborn and get bored easily. They require a patient and creative trainer.
Can Borzoi be trusted off-leash?
No, due to their strong sighthound instincts and high prey drive, Borzoi should never be trusted off-leash in an unfenced area. They will chase after perceived prey and may ignore recall commands.
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early and ongoing socialization is crucial. Provide a diet formulated for large breed puppies to support controlled growth.
Senior Care
Monitor for joint issues and adjust exercise accordingly. Regular vet check-ups are important to catch age-related health problems.
First-Time Owner Tips
Not generally recommended for first-time owners due to their independent nature and specific exercise needs.
Looking for a Borzoi?
Connect with responsible breeders, rescue organizations, and pet adoption services in your area.