Borzoi
The aristocratic Russian wolfhound - tall, graceful and serene, with a gentle nature and breathtaking elegance.
Personality Traits
History and Origins
The Borzoi, formerly known as the Russian Wolfhound, was developed by Russian aristocracy for coursing wolves across the vast open steppes. Packs of Borzoi were used in elaborate hunts involving hundreds of dogs, horses and beaters. The breed's speed, courage and long, silky coat were honed over centuries to produce a dog capable of catching and holding a wolf until the hunters arrived.
After the Russian Revolution many Borzoi were killed as symbols of the aristocracy, but the breed survived through dogs that had been gifted to European royals and breeders. Today the Borzoi is a gentle, dignified companion prized for its breathtaking beauty and serene temperament.
Appearance
The Borzoi is one of the most elegant of all breeds. Standing 68-74 cm or more at the shoulder, they are tall, narrow and graceful with a long, silky coat that may be flat, wavy or curly. The long, narrow head has a barely perceptible stop and the expression is soft and intelligent. Any colour or combination of colours is acceptable. The deep chest, tucked waist and long legs are built for explosive speed.
Is a Borzoi Right for You?
Borzoi suit experienced owners who appreciate a quiet, independent companion. They are not demanding dogs but need space and the opportunity to run. They are gentle with their family but can be reserved with strangers. Their sighthound instincts mean they are not safe off-lead in unfenced areas.
They are not suitable for homes with small pets. Their large size requires adequate space and their silky coat needs regular grooming. They are calm, quiet house dogs that rarely bark.
Living with a Borzoi
Living with a Borzoi is like sharing your home with a living work of art. They are calm, dignified and undemanding indoors, often draping themselves elegantly on sofas and beds. They are affectionate with their family in a quiet, understated way - they do not demand attention but enjoy gentle companionship.
Their prey drive is extremely strong. They can spot movement at great distances and will pursue anything that runs. Secure fencing of at least 1.8 metres is essential. They should never be walked off-lead near roads or in areas with small animals.
Training Tips
- Never let off lead in unfenced areas - their prey drive overrides recall
- Ensure fencing is at least 1.8 metres high - they can jump
- Train with gentle, positive methods - they shut down with harsh correction
- Provide comfortable, padded bedding for their bony frames
- Socialise gently but extensively from puppyhood
Temperament
Borzoi are gentle, quiet and independent. They are not overly demonstrative but form deep bonds with their family. They are rarely aggressive toward people and are generally tolerant of calm, respectful children. They carry themselves with a serene dignity that can be mistaken for aloofness.
Their sighthound nature means they are alert to movement and can switch from sleepy couch potato to explosive sprint in an instant. They are generally quiet dogs that rarely bark.
Exercise Needs
Around one hour of exercise daily. They need the opportunity to run at full speed in large, securely fenced areas. A daily walk combined with access to safe running space keeps them fit and happy. They are not endurance athletes - they sprint, then rest. Long-distance jogging is not ideal for their build. Lure coursing is an excellent outlet for their natural abilities.
Grooming
The long, silky coat needs brushing two to three times a week to prevent matting, particularly behind the ears, under the legs and around the tail feathering. They shed moderately year-round with heavier seasonal blows. Bathing every few weeks keeps the coat clean and flowing. The coat is surprisingly easy to maintain for its length as it does not mat as readily as some long-coated breeds.
Health
Borzoi are deep-chested dogs and therefore at risk of gastric dilatation-volvulus (bloat/GDV), a life-threatening emergency. Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) can occur. They are sensitive to anaesthesia and certain drugs due to their low body fat. Osteosarcoma (bone cancer) affects sighthounds at higher rates. Heart conditions have been reported. Feeding two or three smaller meals rather than one large meal reduces bloat risk.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Borzoi good family dogs?
They can be, in calm households with older children. Their size and sensitivity mean they are not ideal for boisterous families with young children. They are gentle but not particularly playful.
Can Borzoi be let off lead?
Only in very large, securely fenced areas. Their prey drive is extremely strong and they can reach speeds of over 35 mph. No amount of recall training can reliably override their instinct to chase.
Are Borzoi lazy?
Indoors, yes - they are champion sleepers and couch loungers. But they are capable of explosive speed and need the opportunity to run regularly. They are sprinters, not marathon runners.
How big do Borzoi get?
Males stand at least 74 cm at the shoulder and can weigh up to 48 kg. Females are slightly smaller. They are tall, narrow dogs that take up less space than their height suggests.
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