Borzoi
Quick Summary
Elegant sighthounds best suited for experienced owners with space. Key considerations include prey drive management, exercise needs, and independent nature.
Contents
Weight Range
60-105 lbs
♂ Male: 75-105 lbs
♀ Female: 60-85 lbs
Height Range
66-71 inches
♂ Male: 30-33"
♀ Female: 27-31"
Life Expectancy
9-14 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #75
Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Hound Group
Originally bred for Russian aristocrats bred these hounds during the 16th century for hunting wolves and other game across vast open terrain
Popularity
#103
Less common breed
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 30"-33" |
| Female Height | 27"-31" |
| Male Weight | 75-105 lbs |
| Female Weight | 60-85 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 1/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
Initial costs include $2000-3000 for purebred puppy. Monthly expenses average $150-200 for food and basic care. Annual veterinary costs around $500-800, plus emergency fund for potential health issues.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Borzois exhibit a dignified, calm demeanor indoors while maintaining athletic capabilities outdoors. Their independent nature combines with gentle affection toward family. Strong prey drive requires careful management around small animals.
Social Needs
Moderately social dogs who bond closely with family but maintain independence. Generally good with other dogs and calm with children. Can handle alone time well if properly exercised.
Breed Overview
Graceful and aristocratic, the Borzoi exhibits a distinctive silhouette with its long, curved neck, deep chest, and flowing silky coat. Standing tall with elegant proportions, these sighthounds possess remarkable speed and agility. Their refined features include a narrow, elongated head, dark almond-shaped eyes, and small ears that lay back against their neck when relaxed.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Elegant and graceful appearance
- ✓ Gentle and calm indoors
- ✓ Low barking tendency
- ✓ Good with other dogs
Cons
- ✗ Strong prey drive
- ✗ Independent nature
- ✗ Requires secure fencing
- ✗ Regular grooming needed
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Affectionate, Loyal, Regally Dignified |
| Energy Level | Energetic |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | Weekly Brushing |
| Shedding | Seasonal |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, including sprinting in secure areas and long walks. High-intensity bursts of activity followed by periods of rest suit their natural hunting instincts. Needs secure, fenced areas for safe running.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult Borzois require 3-4 cups of high-quality dog food daily, divided into two meals. Their metabolism and size demand protein-rich nutrition. Special attention needed to prevent bloat through proper feeding schedule.
Feed 3-4 cups of premium dog food daily, split into two meals. Choose protein-rich formulas suitable for large breeds. Monitor weight carefully and adjust portions accordingly. Elevated feeding dishes recommended.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Best suited for homes with large, securely fenced yards. Adapts well to indoor living but requires space to stretch out. Tolerates cold weather well due to their thick coat.
Requires substantial indoor space to stretch out comfortably. Minimum secure yard space of 1/4 acre recommended. Adapts to apartment living if exercise needs are met, but thrives with more space.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Noble Russian families developed the Borzoi for hunting wolves across vast estates. Their remarkable speed and sight-hunting abilities made them invaluable companions during traditional hunting parties called 'hunts in the field.'
Historical Purpose
Russian aristocrats bred these hounds during the 16th century for hunting wolves and other game across vast open terrain. Their speed and sight-hunting abilities were prized among nobility.
Fun Fact
Despite their large size, Borzois were historically allowed to sleep in Russian nobles' bedrooms as bed warmers.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires secure fencing due to prey drive and speed. Weekly grooming sessions needed for coat maintenance. Exercise must be controlled during growth to protect joints.