Borzoi

The Borzoi is a tall, elegant Russian sighthound bred to course wolves on the open plains. With their silky coat, aristocratic bearing, and gentle temperament, they are as graceful in the living room as they are swift in the field.

Originally called the Russian Wolfhound, the Borzoi was bred by Russian aristocracy for wolf hunting for centuries. The breed nearly vanished after the Russian Revolution when they were killed as symbols of the aristocracy. AKC recognized in 1891.

A tall, graceful sighthound with a distinctive narrow, dolichocephalic head and a long, silky coat. They move with an effortless, flowing gait. Their elegant proportions and gentle expression are hallmarks of the breed.

Quiet, dignified, and independent, the Borzoi has a calm, gentle temperament. They are affectionate with their family but reserved with strangers. Like many sighthounds, they have a cat-like independence.

Reserved with strangers but loyal to family. Generally peaceful with other dogs, especially other sighthounds. Very high prey drive—cannot be trusted with small animals. Gentle with respectful children.

Moderate exercise needs overall but need regular opportunities to run at full speed in a safe, enclosed area. Daily walks plus weekly sprint sessions are ideal. They are calm and quiet indoors.

Independent and not eager to please, making training challenging. Positive reinforcement with patience is essential. They respond poorly to repetitive drills. Short, interesting training sessions work best.

Regular brushing 2-3 times per week to prevent matting. More frequent during shedding seasons. The coat does not need trimming. Regular nail, ear, and dental care. They are relatively clean dogs.

Like many large, deep-chested breeds, bloat is the primary concern. Heart conditions and bone cancer should be monitored. They are sensitive to anesthesia due to low body fat.

Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for large breeds. Multiple smaller meals help prevent bloat. They tend to be lean eaters. Monitor weight and adjust portions based on activity level.

Surprisingly adaptable to apartment living due to their calm indoor nature, provided they get regular exercise. Must have access to a safe running area. Secure, tall fencing is essential—they can easily clear 5-foot fences.

Best for quiet households with older children. Ideal for owners who appreciate an independent, dignified companion. Not suited for households with cats or small pets. Experience with sighthounds is helpful.

Intelligent but independent-minded. They think for themselves and don't aim to please in the way herding or sporting breeds do. Their intelligence shows in problem-solving and reading their environment.

One of the quietest dog breeds. Borzoi rarely bark and are almost silent indoors. They may occasionally bark at something unusual but are not prone to excessive vocalization.

Moderate shedding year-round with heavy seasonal shedding. Regular brushing helps manage the long, silky coat. Males tend to have more coat than females.

Contact Borzoi rescue organizations. Be prepared for their independent nature and prey drive. Ask about socialization history and experience with small animals.

Borzoi puppies grow very rapidly and need careful nutrition for proper bone development. Avoid excessive exercise during growth. Early socialization is important. They can be mouthy as puppies.

Senior Borzoi may develop joint issues and heart conditions. Provide supportive bedding. Moderate exercise remains important. Monitor for bone cancer symptoms. Regular cardiac checkups.