The Borzoi is a calm, gentle, and graceful dog breed that is relatively easy to care for. These dogs are independent and are not overly needy or demanding of their owners.
Borzoi (singular and plural) are intelligent, making them quick learners. However, their large size can make them seem intimidating to some people.
In reality, dogs are good family pets and have a great sense of humor.
If you decide to adopt a Borzoi, involve them in plenty of activities that allow them to run and stretch their long legs.
Keep reading to learn more about this intriguing dog breed.
Borzoi history
The Borzoi is a Russian dog breed created in the 17th century. The dog is a cross between an Arabian greyhound and a thick-coated Russian breed like the hounds of the Tatars and Owtchar, a sheepdog breed.
Known as a Russian Wolfhound until 1936, the Russian aristocracy first bred the dogs for hundreds of years.
Unfortunately, during and after the Russian Revolution (1917-1923), the dogs were killed because of their association with Russian royalty.
Some dogs survived in remote villages and farms across the vast country.
Constantin Esmont, a Soviet soldier, encountered these dogs in the 1940s and was impressed by what he saw. He photographically recorded them and eventually persuaded Soviet authorities that the Borzoi was worth saving.
Although few dogs left Russia during the Soviet era, enough had been sent to the West before the Russian Revolution to sustain a decent population.
For example, the first Borzoi known to have left Russia was a pair given to Queen Victoria. Prince Edward (later King) was also given a pair that produced puppies, which were later shown at British dog shows.
His wife, Queen Alexandra, kept and bred several Borzoi, called Russian Wolfhounds, until 1936.
The first Borzoi came to the United States from England in the 1880s.
Breed characteristics
The Borzoi is a regal sighthound known for its luxurious silky double coat. That long, silky hair can be flat, curly, or wavy.
Be warned, the dogs shed. Regular brushing and bathing will keep the dog looking its best.
The dogs are big. Males stand at least 28 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh up to 105 pounds, while females are typically smaller.
The dogs live longer than many large breeds and have an average life expectancy of nine to 14 years.
Temperament
Although the Borzoi are typically calm, they can also be independent and stubborn. For the best results, be patient and consistent with training.
Early socialization is critical to raising successful Borzoi puppies that become calm, well-adjusted adults.
Because the dogs are natural hunters, they have a high prey drive and will chase smaller animals.
Feeding your Borzoi
Borzois are relatively light eaters, especially when compared to their large size.
Puppies, however, need to consume more food than adults due to their rapid growth.
The best diet for a Borzoi is high-quality dog food appropriate for the dog’s age, either commercially manufactured or home-prepared under the supervision and approval of your veterinarian.
Because of the risk of bloat, avoid strenuous exercise before or after feeding your Borzoi.
Common health issues
Borzoi dogs are usually healthy, but breeders must screen the dogs for health conditions, including elbow and hip dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, and progressive retinal atrophy.
Brush your Borzoi’s teeth daily and regularly check its floppy ears to ensure it’s not developing an ear infection.
Like other large dogs with deep chests, they can experience bloat, a sudden and potentially deadly stomach condition. If you own a Borzoi, you must educate yourself on the symptoms of bloat and what to do if your dog experiences them.
Sighthounds like Borzois are also more sensitive to anesthesia than other breeds.
Exercise and training needs
Training Borzoi requires a thoughtful approach that balances their independent nature with effective reinforcement techniques.
These dogs are intelligent and can learn commands quickly but tend to be stubborn.
Consistent, positive reinforcement training is essential. Treats, praise, and playtime as rewards will motivate dogs and help establish a strong bond with their owners.
Early socialization is critical; exposing them to environments, people, and other animals as puppies will ensure they become well-rounded adults.
Borzois need ample opportunities to stretch their long legs and expend energy. While they enjoy short bursts of vigorous activity, such as sprints in a secure area, they also appreciate leisurely walks.
To meet their physical needs, it is recommended that they exercise daily for at least one hour, preferably in a spacious, fenced area.
Remember that Borzois have a high prey drive, so keeping them on a leash or enclosed during walks is crucial to prevent them from chasing small animals.
Mental stimulation is equally important to physical activity. Incorporating training sessions, puzzle toys, and interactive play can help keep their minds sharp.
Engaging in activities like lure coursing can be particularly beneficial, allowing them to channel their natural hunting instincts in a controlled manner.
You’ll cultivate a well-behaved, happy Borzoi by providing structured exercise and training.
Beware the Borzoi’s prey drive
Although Borzoi can make excellent family companions, their size and speed can intimidate smaller children.
Early socialization is critical; introducing the Borzoi to children in a controlled setting can help foster positive interactions.
During playtime, Borzois generally enjoy gentle games but may be less enthusiastic about roughhousing.
Supervising play sessions is crucial to protecting both the dog and the children. Teaching children how to interact respectfully with the dog — such as avoiding pulling on ears or tails — will create a safer and happier environment for everyone involved.
Borzois can often coexist peacefully with smaller animals, particularly if raised together.
However, due to their strong hunting instincts, they may tend to chase smaller pets like cats or rabbits, or small dogs, so handle introductions with care. Providing structure and boundaries can help manage any prey-drive tendencies.
With socialization and training, Borzois can learn to live harmoniously with other pets, demonstrating their adaptable and gentle nature.
Bottomline: Should you get a Borzoi puppy?
The Borzoi makes a wonderful pet for first-time dog owners because the dogs are relatively easy to care for.
Regular grooming, including brushing teeth and hair, is vital for keeping your Borzoi healthy and happy.
Early socialization is crucial to helping your Borzoi puppy grow into a well-adjusted adult dog.