Borzoi
Breed Description

The Borzoi has been known by several names throughout its history, most notably as the Russian Wolfhound, the name by which the breed was recognized in English-speaking countries until 1936. This name clearly referenced the breed's primary purpose—hunting wolves across the vast Russian landscape. The term "Borzoi" derives from the Russian word "borzói," meaning "fast" or "swift," which perfectly describes this breed's incredible speed. In Russian, the breed's full name is "Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya," with "psovaya" referring to their wavy, silky coat and "borzaya" indicating a sighthound.

Historically, Russians named sighthounds through descriptive terms rather than distinct breed names. "Borzaya sobaka" simply means "fast dog" and served as the general term for all Russian sighthounds, though "sobaka" (dog) is typically dropped in common usage. Different regional varieties existed, including the Stepnaya Borzaya from the steppes and the Krimskaya Borzaya from the Crimea, though the Psovaya Borzaya became the most famous and is what we now simply call the Borzoi.

The debate over whether to use "Russian Wolfhound" or "Borzoi" as the official breed name sparked considerable controversy in the 1920s and 1930s among breed enthusiasts. Some fanciers preferred the exotic Russian name, while others felt the English term "Russian Wolfhound" was more accessible and descriptive. In 1936, the American Kennel Club officially adopted "Borzoi" as the breed's standard name, settling the debate. Most fanciers of the breed use "Borzoi" for both singular and plural forms, though "Borzois" is also acceptable. The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom and other major kennel clubs worldwide recognize the breed as the Borzoi, cementing this as the internationally accepted name for these elegant hounds.

The Borzoi is recognized by all major kennel clubs worldwide, each maintaining breed standards that emphasize the dog's aristocratic bearing, athletic ability, and distinctive appearance. The breed was among the earliest to gain international recognition, reflecting its popularity among European and American nobility in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom was one of the first to recognize the breed in the 1890s, initially under the name Russian Wolfhound.

The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1891, classifying it in the Hound Group. The AKC breed standard describes the Borzoi as a large, graceful dog built for speed and endurance, with males standing at least 28 inches at the withers and weighing 75-105 pounds, while females are somewhat smaller. The standard emphasizes that the Borzoi should appear capable of tremendous speed combined with power and grace. All colors and color combinations are acceptable in the breed standard, reflecting the Russian nobility's focus on hunting ability rather than cosmetic uniformity.

The United Kennel Club also recognizes the Borzoi in its Sighthound and Pariah Group, while the Fédération Cynologique Internationale classifies the breed in Group 10, Section 1 as a Long-haired or fringed Sighthound. The FCI officially accepted the Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya in 1956, with Russia credited as the country of origin. The Canadian Kennel Club includes the Borzoi in its Hound Group with standards similar to other major registries.

Breed clubs dedicated to the Borzoi exist in numerous countries, including the Borzoi Club of America, founded in 1903, making it one of the oldest breed clubs in the United States. These clubs promote responsible breeding practices, educate the public about the breed, and organize events including lure coursing trials, conformation shows, and specialty shows. The National Borzoi Rescue Foundation provides rescue and rehoming services for Borzois in need. Health testing recommendations from breed clubs typically include cardiac evaluations, thyroid testing, and hip evaluations, though the breed is generally healthy compared to many large breeds. These organizations work to preserve the Borzoi's health, temperament, and distinctive characteristics while promoting the breed to suitable owners who can meet their unique needs.

• American Kennel Club (AKC): "Recognized - Hound Group (1891)"
• United Kennel Club (UKC): "Recognized - Sighthound and Pariah Group"
• Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI): "Recognized - Group 10, Section 1: Long-haired or fringed Sighthounds (1956)"
• The Kennel Club (UK): "Recognized - Hound Group (1890s)"
• Canadian Kennel Club (CKC): "Recognized - Hound Group"

The Borzoi presents one of the most distinctive and elegant silhouettes in the canine world, combining grace, power, and aristocratic bearing in a package designed for incredible speed. These are large, even giant dogs, with males standing at least 28 inches at the shoulder and often reaching 32 inches or more, weighing 75-105 pounds. Females are slightly smaller, typically 26-28 inches tall and weighing 60-85 pounds. Despite their substantial size, Borzois appear surprisingly refined rather than heavy, with a build that emphasizes length and leanness over bulk.

The Borzoi's head is long and narrow, resembling that of their Greyhound relatives but more refined and aristocratic in appearance. The skull is slightly domed with a barely perceptible stop, flowing seamlessly into a long, graceful muzzle that tapers gently to the nose. Their dark, almond-shaped eyes convey intelligence and gentleness, set somewhat obliquely and contributing to their characteristic sweet expression. Small, thin ears lie back against the head when at rest but prick forward alertly when the dog is aroused.

The body structure of the Borzoi reveals their function as coursing hounds built for sustained speed across open terrain. They possess a deep, narrow chest that provides adequate heart and lung capacity without compromising their aerodynamic form. The back shows a pronounced arch over the loin, characteristic of sighthounds and contributing to their incredible acceleration and turning ability. Their legs are long, straight, and fine-boned, with well-muscled thighs that provide the power for their legendary speed of 35-40 miles per hour. The feet are rather long and hare-like, with well-arched toes that provide grip during high-speed pursuits.

The Borzoi's coat ranks among their most beautiful features, consisting of long, silky hair that can be flat, wavy, or slightly curly. The coat forms a heavy frill on the neck, feathering on the chest and legs, and a profuse plume on the long, curved tail. On the head, ears, and front of legs, the hair is short and smooth. This coat developed to protect the dogs from the harsh Russian climate while coursing across snow-covered steppes. The texture should be silky and flowing, never woolly or harsh. The breed standard accepts any color or combination of colors, with various patterns including solid colors, white with colored markings, and intricate brindle patterns all considered equally acceptable.

The Borzoi's history is intimately entwined with Russian aristocracy, reaching back to at least the 16th century when the breed began taking recognizable form. The exact origins remain somewhat mysterious, but most historians agree the breed developed from crosses between Arabian sighthounds (likely Saluki or similar breeds) brought along trade routes with thick-coated Russian breeds, possibly including Russian sheepdogs and native laika-type dogs. This combination produced a dog with the speed and hunting ability of southern sighthounds and the coat necessary to survive brutal Russian winters.

The first breed standard for the Borzoi appeared in the 16th century, making it one of the earliest documented breed standards in the world. However, the breed's development truly flourished during the reign of various Tsars who transformed wolf hunting with Borzois into an elaborate sport that defined Russian aristocratic culture. Russian nobility bred Borzois with the same care and attention the English devoted to foxhounds, maintaining detailed stud books and breeding only from dogs that proved themselves in the field. These noble kennels sometimes housed hundreds of Borzois, with the most famous establishment being that of Grand Duke Nicholas Nicolaievich at his Perchino estate, where he bred Borzois that became legendary for their quality.

Wolf hunting with Borzois evolved into spectacular events that showcased both the dogs' abilities and the wealth of their owners. A typical hunt involved dozens or even hundreds of Borzoi, along with horses, servants, and elaborate logistics that required entire trainloads of equipment and animals. The hunt itself was a test of the Borzoi's courage and speed: dogs worked in matched trios (troikas) and were slipped when a wolf was driven from cover. The Borzois would sprint after the wolf, reaching incredible speeds across open terrain, then seize the wolf by the neck or ear and hold it until the huntsman arrived to dispatch it, sometimes taking it alive. This required not just speed but tremendous courage, as Russian wolves were large and dangerous adversaries.

Borzois could not be purchased but only received as gifts from the Tsar, making them symbols of imperial favor and aristocratic privilege. This exclusivity enhanced their mystique and ensured only the nobility owned these magnificent dogs. However, this association with the ruling class nearly led to the breed's extinction following the Russian Revolution of 1917. Communist revolutionaries viewed Borzois as hated symbols of the aristocracy and killed them in large numbers. The breed survived only because sufficient numbers had been exported to other European countries and America before the Revolution.

Borzois arrived in England in the 1840s and America in the 1880s, where they quickly captured the imagination of wealthy elites who appreciated their beauty and aristocratic heritage. In America, the breed became popular among Hollywood stars in the 1920s and 1930s, frequently appearing in publicity photographs as elegant accessories that symbolized sophistication and wealth. This glamorous association helped popularize the breed while also creating some misconceptions about them being purely ornamental dogs rather than capable athletes.

Throughout the 20th century, Borzoi breeders worked to preserve the breed's hunting ability alongside their beauty. While few Borzois hunt wolves today, they excel at lure coursing, where they pursue mechanical lures across open fields, demonstrating the speed and grace that made them famous. Some owners in Western states still use Borzois for open field coursing of coyotes and jackrabbits, proving these elegant dogs retain their working abilities. The breed has adapted successfully to modern companion life while maintaining the noble bearing, athletic ability, and gentle temperament that made them favorites of Russian Tsars. Today's Borzois remain remarkably true to the breed developed centuries ago in Russia, testament to the sound foundation established by those early aristocratic breeders who valued function as highly as form.

The Borzoi possesses a unique temperament that combines aristocratic bearing with gentle affection, creating a dog that is simultaneously independent and deeply attached to their family. These are calm, quiet dogs indoors, content to spend hours lounging on comfortable surfaces—preferably cold floors or your sofa—exhibiting a laid-back demeanor that surprises those expecting high-energy behavior from such athletic dogs. This indoor serenity reflects their coursing heritage, as sighthounds conserve energy between hunts, exploding into action only when prey appears.

Despite their calm nature, Borzois form intensely strong bonds with their families and suffer when separated from their people. They are companion dogs who crave human interaction and companionship, preferring to be near family members throughout the day. Unlike some independent breeds content with solitude, Borzois can develop separation anxiety if regularly left alone for extended periods. They express their affection through quiet presence, gentle physical contact, and attentive observation rather than demanding attention or exuberant displays. Their devotion makes them wonderful companions for owners who can provide the companionship they need.

Borzois demonstrate notable sensitivity in their interactions with humans. They are aware of their owner's moods and respond to emotional atmospheres, making them potentially good emotional support animals for the right person. However, this sensitivity also means they don't tolerate harsh training methods or rough handling. They can be easily upset by loud voices, chaotic environments, or aggressive treatment. Families with boisterous young children or very active, noisy households may find the Borzoi's sensitive nature incompatible with their lifestyle. The breed does best in calmer households where they receive gentle, patient treatment.

The Borzoi's intelligence manifests differently than in highly biddable working breeds. They are capable of learning quickly but possess strong independent thinking developed over centuries of coursing wolves far from handlers' direct control. This independence means they may choose not to obey commands if unmotivated, a trait that frustrates owners expecting immediate compliance. Borzois become easily bored with repetitive training exercises and may simply refuse to participate if they don't see the point. Training requires patience, creativity, and positive reinforcement methods that keep them engaged. Harsh corrections prove counterproductive with this sensitive breed.

The most defining aspect of Borzoi temperament is their extraordinarily strong prey drive. When they spot small, fast-moving animals, their hunting instinct triggers instantly and completely. They will chase squirrels, cats, rabbits, or any other small creature with single-minded determination, often unable to hear or respond to commands during pursuit. This sight-oriented hunting drive is so powerful that even well-trained Borzois cannot be trusted off-leash in unprotected areas. Their incredible speed means they can disappear in seconds, sometimes traveling miles in pursuit of prey. This instinct is not aggression but pure hunting behavior that cannot be trained away. Owners must accept and manage this characteristic rather than trying to eliminate it, ensuring their Borzoi has opportunities to run safely in securely fenced areas where their natural abilities can be expressed without danger.

Borzois can make wonderful family companions for households that understand and can accommodate their unique combination of athletic ability and calm temperament. These dogs thrive in families who appreciate their gentle, quiet nature and can provide both the exercise opportunities they need and the companionship they crave. They are not well-suited to extremely active families expecting a tireless hiking companion, nor to families wanting a guard dog or highly obedient working dog. The ideal Borzoi owner values elegance, enjoys quiet companionship, and has access to safe areas where their dog can run.

With children, Borzois generally show patience and gentleness, particularly with older, respectful children who understand how to interact appropriately with dogs. They form affectionate bonds with children in their family and can be protective in a gentle way. However, their sensitivity to rough play, loud noises, and chaotic energy makes them less suitable for families with very young or boisterous children. Young children may inadvertently stress a Borzoi through rough handling or loud voices, and the dog's large size poses risks of accidentally knocking over small children. Families with school-age children who can appreciate the dog's gentle nature often find Borzois to be wonderful companions.

The living space requirements for Borzois are substantial, though not as demanding as their size might suggest. While they need room to stretch out—both indoors and outdoors—they are surprisingly adaptable to various living situations if their exercise needs are met. They can live successfully in apartments if provided with adequate outdoor exercise, as they are quiet and calm indoors. However, they truly appreciate having a securely fenced yard where they can lounge outside and occasionally sprint. Fencing must be high and secure, as Borzois can jump surprising heights when motivated by prey, and their determination to chase can override normal boundaries.

Exercise requirements for Borzois are moderate rather than extreme. They need daily walks plus opportunities to run at full speed in secure, fenced areas several times per week. Unlike endurance breeds that require hours of exercise, Borzois are sprinters who tire relatively quickly after intense running. A securely fenced dog park or private property where they can safely run provides ideal exercise opportunities. Some Borzoi owners participate in lure coursing, allowing their dogs to chase mechanical lures and express their natural hunting behaviors in controlled settings. After adequate exercise, Borzois are content to spend much of the day lounging peacefully.

Borzois generally do well in multi-dog households, particularly with other large dogs who match their play style. They were bred to hunt in packs and typically maintain good canine social skills. However, they strongly prefer dogs of similar size and may be uncomfortable around small, yappy dogs. The combination of their prey drive and size makes them potentially dangerous to small pets. Cats and Borzois can coexist if raised together from puppyhood, but even then, the situation requires careful management and supervision. The instinct to chase remains strong, and fast movements can trigger pursuit behavior. Households with rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters, or other small animals should seriously reconsider whether a Borzoi is appropriate, as the risk to small pets is substantial. Borzois need to be with their families rather than isolated in yards or kennels. They suffer emotionally when separated from their people and can develop depression or anxiety if treated as outdoor dogs or regularly left alone for long hours.

Training a Borzoi requires patience, creativity, and acceptance of their independent nature. These are intelligent dogs capable of learning quickly, but their strong independent thinking and tendency toward selective obedience make them challenging students compared to highly biddable breeds. Borzois become bored easily with repetitive exercises, a trait that served them well when coursing wolves required independent decision-making but proves frustrating in formal training situations. They need motivation to participate in training, responding best when sessions remain short, varied, and rewarding.

Positive reinforcement methods work far better with Borzois than traditional correction-based training. These sensitive dogs shut down or become stressed when handled harshly or corrected severely. Food rewards, praise, and play motivate them more effectively than pressure or force. Training sessions should be kept brief—10 to 15 minutes maximum—to maintain their interest and prevent boredom. Incorporating training into daily activities and games rather than formal obedience drills often yields better results. Early socialization and puppy training classes provide crucial foundations, exposing Borzois to various people, dogs, and situations during their formative months.

Despite training challenges, Borzois can succeed in various dog sports with patient, creative training. Lure coursing represents the ideal activity for this breed, allowing them to chase mechanical lures across open fields and express their natural hunting abilities in controlled settings. Many Borzois earn coursing titles and thoroughly enjoy this sport that taps into their instinctive behaviors. Some also compete successfully in agility, though their size and independent nature make this more challenging than with smaller, more biddable breeds. Rally obedience provides another option, offering more flexibility than traditional obedience while still providing mental stimulation.

Recall training deserves special attention with Borzois, though owners must accept that reliable off-leash recall may never be achievable with this breed. Their prey drive is so powerful that even well-trained Borzois may ignore commands when they spot potential prey. Training should focus on building the strongest possible recall response for use in relatively safe situations, but owners must never rely on recall in unsafe areas. Borzois should only be off-leash in securely fenced areas, period. Long lines can allow some freedom during walks while maintaining control, but retractable leashes prove dangerous with such powerful, fast dogs who may suddenly bolt.

Exercise needs for Borzois are surprisingly moderate given their athletic build and incredible speed. Daily walks of 30-45 minutes provide adequate exercise for mental stimulation and basic conditioning. However, Borzois also need opportunities to run at full speed several times per week. These sprint sessions can be brief—15 to 20 minutes of hard running satisfies their need for intense exercise. Securely fenced dog parks, private property, or lure coursing events provide safe venues for running. After adequate exercise, Borzois are remarkably calm and content to lounge for much of the day.

Mental stimulation ranks equally important as physical exercise for Borzoi wellbeing. While not as demanding of mental challenges as herding breeds, Borzois benefit from activities that engage their minds and prevent boredom. Puzzle toys, nose work games, and learning new tricks provide mental enrichment. Simply accompanying their family on outings—visiting dog-friendly stores, outdoor cafes, or nature walks—provides mental stimulation through novel environments and experiences. Borzois who receive both physical exercise and mental enrichment are calmer, more content companions who display fewer behavioral problems than under-stimulated dogs.

Borzois are generally healthy dogs with a life expectancy of 10-12 years, typical for giant breeds. A 2024 UK study found an average life expectancy of 12 years for the breed, comparable to other large dogs though shorter than medium and small breeds. Their relatively diverse genetic background and focus on functional ability during breed development contributed to generally good health, though like all purebred dogs, Borzois face certain health concerns that potential owners and breeders should understand.

Bloat, medically known as gastric dilatation-volvulus, represents the most serious and life-threatening health concern for Borzois and all deep-chested breeds. This condition occurs when the stomach fills with gas, food, and fluid, then twists on itself, cutting off blood supply and creating a medical emergency requiring immediate surgical intervention. Symptoms include restlessness, attempts to vomit without producing anything, excessive drooling, distended abdomen, and signs of pain. Bloat develops rapidly and can kill within hours if untreated. Preventive measures include feeding multiple smaller meals rather than one large meal, preventing vigorous exercise immediately before and after eating, using slow-feed bowls, and avoiding elevated food bowls. Some veterinarians recommend prophylactic gastropexy, a surgical procedure that tacks the stomach in place and prevents twisting, which can be performed during spay or neuter surgery.

Cardiac disease affects Borzois at higher rates than many breeds. An American study examining echocardiographs of clinically healthy Borzois found that 53.8% had heart murmurs, 30.2% had trace or mild mitral regurgitation, 36.1% had mild tricuspid regurgitation, and 14.4% had diagnosable cardiac disease. These statistics emphasize the importance of cardiac screening in breeding stock and regular cardiac evaluations throughout a Borzoi's life. Many dogs with mild heart changes live normal lifespans without treatment, but monitoring allows early intervention if conditions progress.

Hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia affect some Borzois, though less frequently than in many other large breeds. These developmental orthopedic conditions occur when joints form improperly, leading to arthritis, pain, and mobility issues. Responsible breeders screen breeding stock through Orthopedic Foundation for Animals evaluations to reduce the incidence of dysplasia in offspring. Maintaining appropriate body weight and providing measured exercise during growth helps minimize impact in dogs predisposed to these conditions.

Osteochondritis dissecans, another orthopedic condition, involves abnormal cartilage development in joints, most commonly affecting the shoulder. Affected dogs typically show lameness between 5-7 months of age. Treatment may involve rest, anti-inflammatory medication, or surgery depending on severity. Proper nutrition during puppyhood, avoiding over-supplementation and maintaining moderate growth rates, helps reduce the risk of developmental orthopedic problems.

Degenerative myelopathy, a progressive disease of the spinal cord, can affect older Borzois. This condition causes gradual loss of coordination in the hindquarters, progressing to paralysis over time. No cure exists, though supportive care including physical therapy and mobility aids can maintain quality of life for a period. Genetic testing identifies carriers of the gene mutation associated with degenerative myelopathy.

Borzois, like all sighthounds, demonstrate unusual sensitivity to anesthesia and sedatives due to their low body fat percentage and lean muscle mass. These characteristics alter drug metabolism, causing slower recovery from anesthesia compared to other breeds. This doesn't mean Borzois should avoid necessary procedures requiring anesthesia, but veterinarians must adjust dosages and monitor recovery carefully. Borzoi owners should inform veterinary staff of their dog's breed and sensitivity before any procedure requiring anesthesia or heavy sedation.

Preventive care significantly impacts Borzoi health and longevity. Regular veterinary examinations, ideally annually for young adults and twice yearly for seniors over seven years, allow early detection of developing problems. Cardiac evaluations become particularly important given the breed's predisposition to heart conditions. Maintaining appropriate body weight through proper nutrition reduces stress on joints and organs. High-quality dog food formulated for large or giant breeds provides necessary nutrients. Bloat prevention strategies should be implemented from puppyhood. Regular screening for breed-specific health concerns through hip and elbow evaluations, cardiac examinations, thyroid testing, and appropriate genetic testing enables early intervention when problems arise, potentially extending both lifespan and quality of life.

Regular veterinary check-ups and preventive care are essential for maintaining your Borzoi's health and longevity.

Borzoi grooming requirements fall into the moderate category, manageable for most owners with regular attention despite their long, luxurious coat. The breed's silky coat possesses natural dirt-repelling properties that keep them relatively clean compared to dogs with different coat textures. Regular grooming maintains coat health, prevents mats and tangles, and manages shedding, while also providing opportunities to check for health issues and strengthen the bond between dog and owner.

Brushing represents the primary grooming task for Borzois, necessary two to three times weekly during normal periods and daily during heavy shedding seasons. A slicker brush or pin brush works well for the longer coat areas, while a fine-toothed comb helps work through tangles and removes loose undercoat. Pay particular attention to areas prone to matting, including behind the ears, under the collar, in the feathering on legs and tail, and around the hindquarters. These areas can develop mats quickly if neglected, especially when the coat is wet. Regular brushing not only removes loose hair but also distributes natural oils through the coat, maintaining its healthy sheen and texture.

Shedding in Borzois occurs continuously at low levels year-round but intensifies dramatically during major seasonal sheds, typically once or twice annually. During these periods, which may last several weeks, Borzois release remarkable amounts of undercoat. Daily brushing becomes necessary during heavy sheds to remove dead coat and prevent massive accumulations of fur throughout the house. Unspayed females may shed more heavily after heat cycles. Despite the impressive amount of fur a Borzoi produces during major sheds, the rest of the year proves relatively manageable with regular grooming.

Bathing requirements for Borzois are minimal, recommended only every one to two months or when the dog becomes noticeably dirty. Their coat naturally repels dirt and mud, which typically brushes out easily once dry. Over-bathing can strip natural oils and reduce the coat's dirt-resistant properties. When bathing is necessary, use a high-quality dog shampoo and ensure thorough rinsing, as residual shampoo can cause skin irritation and make the coat sticky. Many Borzoi owners find that spot-cleaning muddy legs or dirty areas with a damp cloth suffices for routine cleaning between full baths.

The long coat requires attention to specific areas that need trimming for neatness and comfort. Hair growing between the paw pads should be trimmed regularly to prevent matting, ice ball accumulation in winter, and provide better traction on slippery surfaces. Some owners also trim sanitary areas for cleanliness, particularly around the hindquarters. The coat should never be clipped or trimmed extensively, as this alters the proper texture and appearance. Some show dogs receive professional grooming to enhance their presentation, but pet Borzois typically need only basic maintenance trimming.

Routine maintenance includes regular nail trimming every 3-4 weeks, as overgrown nails can affect gait and cause discomfort. Borzoi nails grow relatively quickly and may not wear down sufficiently through exercise alone. Checking and cleaning ears weekly prevents wax buildup and allows early detection of infections. Dental care proves critically important for long-term health, with daily tooth brushing recommended using dog-specific toothpaste and brushes. Starting grooming routines early in puppyhood helps Borzois accept handling and makes maintenance procedures easier throughout their lives. Many Borzois enjoy the attention grooming provides, making it a pleasant bonding activity rather than a struggle.

If you're looking to adopt a Borzoi, consider contacting these breed-specific rescue organizations:

"Don't Shop... Please Adopt" - There are many wonderful Borzois waiting for their forever homes.