Psowaya Barsaya
Breed Description

The Psowaya Barsaya, more commonly known in the Western world as the Borzoi, carries a rich heritage reflected in its many names throughout history. The full Russian name for this magnificent breed is Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya, which translates to Russian long-haired sighthound. This descriptive name captures the essential characteristics that define the breed: its Russian origins, its distinctive flowing coat, and its classification as a sighthound that hunts primarily by vision rather than scent.

The naming conventions of Russian sighthounds have always been descriptive rather than arbitrary. The word borzoi is the masculine singular form of an archaic Russian adjective meaning fast or swift, reflecting the breed's legendary speed that can reach 35 to 40 miles per hour in full stride. The term psovaya derives from psovina, meaning wavy or silky coat, distinguishing this long-coated variety from other Russian sighthounds such as the Hortaya Borzaya, where hortaya means shorthaired.

In America and much of the English-speaking world, the breed was known as the Russian Wolfhound until 1936, when the American Kennel Club officially changed the breed's name to Borzoi. This change came after considerable debate among breed fanciers during the 1920s and early 1930s. Some advocates argued that Russian Wolfhound was more evocative and meaningful to the average person, while others felt that Borzoi, being the actual Russian name, was more appropriate and authentic. The AKC ultimately sided with those favoring the original Russian terminology.

Other historical names for the breed include the Russian Greyhound, a reference to its resemblance to the Greyhound family of sighthounds, and the Psovoi, a shortened form of the Russian name. In various regions where the breed was found or developed, it acquired additional local designations. These various names all refer to the same elegant, swift hunting dog that has captivated dog lovers for centuries.

The Borzoi was among the earliest breeds recognized by the American Kennel Club, achieving recognition in 1891 under its then-current name of Russian Wolfhound. This early recognition reflects the breed's popularity among American dog fanciers of the late 19th century, when the elegance of European aristocratic breeds held particular appeal. The United Kennel Club recognized the breed in 1914, also under the Russian Wolfhound name, and today classifies it in the Sighthound and Pariah Group.

The Federation Cynologique Internationale definitively accepted the Russkaya Psovaya Borzaya in 1956, classifying the breed in Group 10 for Sighthounds. This international recognition under the full Russian name honors the breed's origins while providing a standardized classification for the worldwide dog fancy. The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom recognizes the breed in the Hound Group, as does the Canadian Kennel Club, ensuring that this distinguished breed enjoys recognition across all major registries worldwide.

The Borzoi Club of America, established in 1903, serves as the AKC parent club for the breed in the United States and has been instrumental in preserving the breed standard and promoting responsible breeding practices. Similarly, The Borzoi Club in the United Kingdom, founded in 1892 following a proposal from the Duke and Duchess of Newcastle, ranks among the oldest breed clubs affiliated with The Kennel Club, demonstrating the long-standing appreciation for this noble breed among British dog fanciers.

The breed standards for the Psowaya Barsaya have been carefully crafted to preserve the qualities that have defined this aristocratic sighthound for centuries. These standards reflect the breed's original purpose as a coursing hound capable of pursuing and holding wolves across the vast Russian steppe, emphasizing the combination of speed, strength, grace, and elegance that characterizes the properly bred Borzoi.

The American Kennel Club standard describes the Psowaya Barsaya as among the most impressively beautiful of all dogs, possessing an aristocratic appearance that combines strength with grace and glamour. The standard emphasizes that the breed should be capable of the speed and endurance necessary for coursing game in open terrain, while maintaining the elegant, flowing lines that distinguish it from other sighthounds. Males should stand at least 28 inches at the shoulder, with females at least 26 inches, though there is no upper height limit specified.

Proportions are critical in the breed standard, with the body being slightly longer than tall to allow for the extended reach and drive of the proper Borzoi movement. The chest is deep and oval in shape, with a prominent forechest, while the ribs are flatter behind the shoulder blades and gradually spring more toward the back of the ribcage. This body structure provides the lung capacity necessary for sustained running while maintaining the narrow, aerodynamic profile essential for speed.

The head is one of the most distinctive features addressed in the standard. It should be long, narrow, and lean, with an aristocratic appearance when viewed from any angle. The skull and muzzle form a nearly continuous line that is slightly convex, creating the characteristic Roman nose profile. The skull is narrow and nearly flat, while the muzzle is at least as long as the skull with a strong underjaw. The stop is only slightly marked, contributing to the smooth, flowing head planes.

The coat standard describes the characteristic silky texture that distinguishes the Psowaya Barsaya. The coat should be long, silky, and flat or wavy, with a thick, somewhat curly neck frill that historically protected the dog's throat from wolf attacks. Feathering on the hindquarters and tail adds to the elegant appearance. Any color or combination of colors is acceptable, with no restrictions that would limit the genetic diversity of the breed.

Movement receives particular attention in the breed standard, as proper gait demonstrates the structural soundness essential for a working sighthound. The characteristic movement is an extended trot that is supple, effortless, and lifting, demonstrating the reach and drive that enables the breed to cover ground efficiently. When coursing, the gallop is extremely fast with very long strides, showcasing the athletic capability that defines the breed's original purpose.

The United Kennel Club standard mirrors these requirements while placing the breed in the Sighthound and Pariah Group, emphasizing the breed's heritage as a coursing hound. The UKC standard notes that since the Borzoi was originally bred and used for coursing wild game on open terrain, relying on sight rather than scent, the physical structure and characteristics mirror the need to chase, catch, and hold quarry. Primary emphasis is placed on sound running gear in a well-conditioned animal, accompanied by agility, courage, and a strong neck and jaw.

The Federation Cynologique Internationale standard serves as the international benchmark, with the breed's country of origin being Russia. The FCI standard provides detailed descriptions of all physical characteristics and emphasizes that the Borzoi always possesses unmistakable elegance and flowing lines, being graceful whether in motion or at rest. Males should be masculine without being coarse, while females should be feminine and refined.

Breed clubs work to ensure judges understand and properly evaluate the breed according to these standards. The Borzoi Club of America provides educational materials, mentorship programs, and judges' seminars to promote consistent interpretation of the standard. Health testing recommendations from these organizations include screening for cardiac conditions, thyroid function, and eye diseases, with results maintained in health databases to guide breeding decisions.

The Psowaya Barsaya presents a picture of elegant grace and athletic power, combining the streamlined build necessary for exceptional speed with the strength required to course and hold large game. This magnificent sighthound is among the largest of the breed group, with males standing at least 28 inches at the shoulder and females at least 26 inches, with many individuals exceeding these minimums considerably. Weight ranges from 60 to 90 pounds for females and 75 to 105 pounds for males, though the breed should never appear heavy or coarse.

The overall silhouette of the Psowaya Barsaya is one of flowing curves and elegant lines. The body is slightly longer than tall, creating a rectangular proportion that allows for the extended reach and drive of proper movement. The topline rises in a graceful arch over the loin, more pronounced in males than females, with the highest point of the curve situated in front of the middle of the loin. This arched topline, combined with the deep chest and tucked abdomen, creates the characteristic silhouette that distinguishes the breed.

The head is perhaps the most distinctive feature of the Psowaya Barsaya, presenting an aristocratic appearance that is unmistakable. Viewed from any angle, the head is long, lean, and narrow, tapering smoothly from skull to nose. The skull and muzzle form a nearly continuous line that is slightly convex, creating the Roman nose profile characteristic of the breed. The skull is narrow and nearly flat when viewed from above, appearing as an elongated oval. The muzzle is at least as long as the skull, with a strong underjaw and fine, tight lips.

The eyes are large, dark, and intelligent, with an almond shape and slight slant that contributes to the breed's exotic appearance. Eye color should complement the coat, with darker eyes preferred in most colors though lighter eyes are acceptable in dilute-colored dogs. The expression is soft and gentle yet alert, reflecting the breed's calm temperament. The ears are small, fine, and set high and far back on the head, lying flat against the neck when relaxed and raised with the tips falling over when the dog is at attention.

The neck is long, clean, and slightly arched, blending smoothly into well-laid-back shoulders. The neck carries a distinctive frill of longer, sometimes curly hair that gives the breed its regal appearance and historically provided protection during wolf hunting. The shoulders are long and oblique, with upper arms just slightly longer than the shoulder blades, creating the angulation necessary for proper reach in movement.

The chest is deep and oval in shape, with a prominent forechest that provides the lung capacity essential for sustained running. The ribs are long and somewhat flattened behind the shoulder blades, gradually springing more toward the back of the ribcage. This chest structure allows the elbows to tuck close to the body during the gallop while providing ample room for heart and lungs. The underline shows a pronounced tuck-up, creating an aerodynamic profile.

The coat of the Psowaya Barsaya is one of its most beautiful features, consisting of long, silky hair that may be flat, wavy, or slightly curly. The texture is soft and flows freely with movement. Coat length varies over the body, with shorter, smoother hair on the head, ears, and front of the legs, while longer feathering adorns the neck, chest, hindquarters, and tail. The tail is long, set low, and carried in a graceful curve, well-feathered with a flowing plume. Any color or combination of colors is acceptable, including white, black, cream, brindle, sable, red, and various patterns and markings.

The legs are long and straight, with fine but strong bone that appears flat rather than round. The hindquarters are powerful, with long thighs and moderate angulation at the stifle and hock. The feet are well-arched and hare-like, with close toes that provide traction during the explosive acceleration of the coursing gallop. Movement is ground-covering and effortless at the trot, while the gallop demonstrates the breathtaking speed for which the breed is renowned.

The history of the Psowaya Barsaya stretches back through centuries of Russian aristocratic tradition, representing one of the most storied and romantic heritage of any dog breed. Coursing hounds of this type have been known in Russia since at least the 13th century, with the modern breed developing from crosses between Arabian sighthounds, native Russian breeds, and various other hunting dogs that contributed to the unique combination of speed, coat, and temperament that defines the Borzoi today.

The foundation of the Psowaya Barsaya lies in the intersection of Eastern and Russian sighthound traditions. Arabian Greyhounds and similar sighthounds from central Asian countries were brought to Russia along trade routes and through diplomatic exchanges. The Chinese also bred small hairless dogs that may have contributed to the development of various breeds through trade, though the Borzoi's development focused on creating a large, powerful coursing hound suited to the harsh Russian climate and vast open steppes.

The breed's name derives from descriptive Russian terms for its characteristics. The word borzaya means sighthound or swift hound, while psovaya refers to the wavy, silky coat that distinguishes this variety from shorthaired Russian sighthounds like the Hortaya Borzaya. The crossing of swift southern sighthounds with native Russian breeds that possessed heavier coats resulted in a dog capable of withstanding bitter Russian winters while maintaining the speed necessary to course wolves and other game.

From the time of Ivan the Terrible in the 15th century through the Russian Revolution in 1917, the Russian aristocracy maintained elaborate kennels of Psowaya Barsaya, sometimes numbering in the hundreds or even thousands of dogs. These kennels were passed down through generations of noble families, with great attention paid to breeding, feeding, and training. Wolf hunting with Borzoi became not merely a hunting method but an elaborate aristocratic ritual with medieval overtones, complete with pageantry, ceremony, and fierce competition between noble kennels.

The wolf hunt itself was a spectacular event requiring extensive planning and resources. Huntsmen wearing the colors of their noble patron would depart the hunting lodge with pairs or trios of matched Borzoi, leashed and ready for release. Foxhounds would drive wolves from woodland copses onto the open steppe, where the Borzoi would be released to pursue. Galloping at speeds approaching 40 miles per hour, the dogs would overtake the wolf, working together to tumble it to the ground and seize it by the neck until the mounted hunter arrived to dispatch or capture the prey.

The emancipation of Russia's serfs in 1861 began the decline of the great noble kennels. The feudal system that had provided cheap labor to maintain sprawling estates collapsed, and many kennels were disbanded. However, the breed experienced a final flowering in the late 1880s when Grand Duke Nicholas Nikolaevich established his legendary Perchino kennels approximately 125 miles from Moscow. Perchino maintained over 150 Borzoi at its peak, with at least three dogs of each color to create visually matched hunting teams.

Perchino produced many dogs that influenced the breed worldwide. In 1903, Joseph Thomas Jr. of Connecticut traveled to Russia, visiting Perchino and other fine kennels to acquire breeding stock to improve American lines. He returned with dogs including the white-and-brindle male Bistri from Perchino and females Sorva and Atamanka from the Woronzova kennels. These imports, and others that followed, established the foundation for American Borzoi breeding programs.

The Russian Revolution of 1917 proved catastrophic for the breed in its homeland. The Borzoi's association with the despised aristocracy made it a target of communist persecution. Borzoi were killed in large numbers, and the great kennels that had developed the breed over centuries were destroyed. The breed might have vanished entirely had specimens not already been exported to Western Europe, Britain, and America, where they found appreciative homes among dog fanciers who treasured their beauty and gentle temperament.

A little more than a dozen years after the final American visits to Perchino, Grand Duke Nicholas disbanded his kennels in the face of revolutionary violence. The Soviet era proved difficult for the breed, though some dedicated enthusiasts worked to preserve remaining dogs. By the 1920s and 1930s, when concern arose that distinct Russian sighthound types were degenerating without controlled breeding, Soviet officials recognized Borzoi as valuable assets to hunters supporting the fur industry, leading to official regulation of breeding programs.

In the West, the Borzoi found new admirers who appreciated its elegance and aristocratic bearing. The American Kennel Club had recognized the breed in 1891 as the Russian Wolfhound, making it one of the earliest recognized breeds. The Borzoi Club of America was established in 1903, providing organized support for the breed in North America. Famous owners including celebrities and socialites brought glamour to the breed during the 1920s, when its elegant appearance made it a symbol of sophistication in advertising and film.

The Psowaya Barsaya possesses a temperament that perfectly reflects its aristocratic heritage, combining dignity, gentleness, and quiet independence in a manner that captivates those who appreciate a more reserved canine companion. Unlike breeds that express themselves through constant activity and obvious affection, the Borzoi demonstrates love through calm presence, loyal companionship, and occasional moments of surprising playfulness that delight their families.

Dignity is perhaps the defining characteristic of the Psowaya Barsaya temperament. These dogs carry themselves with an almost regal bearing that reflects centuries of selective breeding by Russian nobility who valued elegance in both appearance and behavior. They are not prone to excessive displays of emotion, preferring to express their feelings through subtle body language and quiet presence. This dignified demeanor should not be mistaken for aloofness toward family members, as Borzoi form deep bonds with their people and genuinely enjoy their company.

The gentle nature of the Psowaya Barsaya makes them remarkably sweet companions despite their size and hunting heritage. They are typically quiet dogs who rarely bark without reason, moving through the household with grace and consideration for their surroundings. This gentleness extends to their interactions with family members, where they show affection through calm presence rather than jumping or demanding attention. Many owners describe their Borzoi as being almost cat-like in their self-contained composure.

Independence characterizes the Psowaya Barsaya's approach to life, reflecting their heritage as sighthounds who made autonomous decisions during the hunt. They are thinking dogs who do not blindly follow commands without understanding the purpose, which can be challenging for owners accustomed to more immediately obedient breeds. This independence is not defiance but rather a reflection of their intelligent, discerning nature that evaluates situations before responding.

Despite their calm household demeanor, the Psowaya Barsaya retains the strong prey drive that made them formidable wolf hunters. They may chase small animals including cats, small dogs, and wildlife if given the opportunity, responding to movement with lightning-fast pursuit before any recall command can register. This prey drive requires management through secure fencing and leash control, though many Borzoi can learn to coexist peacefully with household cats and small dogs when raised together from puppyhood.

The sensitivity of the Psowaya Barsaya makes them particularly attuned to the emotional atmosphere of their homes. They do not thrive in chaotic, high-stress environments and may become withdrawn or anxious when exposed to tension or harsh treatment. This sensitivity requires thoughtful handling and a calm household environment where the dog can relax and feel secure. Owners who understand and respect this sensitivity are rewarded with a deeply loyal companion.

Social behavior with strangers typically reflects the breed's reserved nature. The Psowaya Barsaya tends to be aloof with unfamiliar people, maintaining a polite distance rather than seeking attention or interaction. This is not aggression but rather the natural reserve of a breed that historically was associated primarily with its noble handlers. Proper socialization during puppyhood helps develop appropriate social skills while respecting the breed's innate temperament.

Playfulness emerges in the Psowaya Barsaya as bursts of exuberant activity interspersed with periods of calm repose. When in a playful mood, they may engage in silly antics, zooming around the yard or home with surprising speed, or engaging in gentle games with family members. These playful episodes are delightful contrasts to their usual dignified demeanor and reveal the joyful spirit that exists beneath their composed exterior.

Intelligence in the Psowaya Barsaya manifests as thoughtful observation and quick learning when motivated. They understand more than their independent nature sometimes suggests, often choosing whether to comply with requests based on their own assessment of the situation. This intelligence makes them interesting companions who seem to genuinely think about their world rather than simply reacting to it. Owners who appreciate a companion that brings thoughtfulness to daily life find the Borzoi's temperament deeply rewarding.

The Psowaya Barsaya adapts to family life with grace and consideration, bringing a calm, dignified presence to households that understand and appreciate its unique needs. While their large size might suggest they require extensive space, these elegant sighthounds are surprisingly adaptable to various living situations provided their exercise needs are met and they receive the companionship they quietly crave.

Space requirements for the Psowaya Barsaya center less on indoor square footage than on access to safe areas for running. Inside the home, these dogs are remarkably unobtrusive despite their size, spending much of their time resting quietly and moving with careful grace that minimizes disruption. Many owners describe them as large dogs that live small, occupying minimal space relative to their physical dimensions. They do, however, appreciate comfortable resting spots such as plush dog beds or access to soft furniture where they can stretch their long limbs.

Outdoor space ideally includes a securely fenced area where the Psowaya Barsaya can safely sprint at full speed. The fencing must be tall enough to prevent jumping, as these athletic dogs can clear surprisingly high barriers when motivated. A fence of at least six feet is generally recommended, with some owners adding extensions for additional security. The prey drive that makes unsecured areas dangerous also means that electronic fences are inadequate, as the desire to chase can override any deterrent.

Families with children can successfully include a Psowaya Barsaya when all parties understand appropriate interaction. The breed's gentle nature makes them generally patient with children, but they are not particularly playful companions for youngsters seeking a romping playmate. Their large size creates potential for accidental knockdowns of small children, and they prefer calm, gentle interactions over rough play. Older children who respect the dog's dignity and understand gentle handling typically develop rewarding relationships with Borzoi.

The Psowaya Barsaya's relationship with other pets requires careful consideration of their strong prey drive. Large dogs of similar size are generally welcome companions, and Borzoi often enjoy the company of other sighthounds who share their running style and temperament. Smaller dogs and cats present more complexity, as the movement of a small animal can trigger chase instinct even in dogs raised with small pets from puppyhood. Successful multi-pet households typically maintain vigilant management and never leave the Borzoi unsupervised with smaller animals.

The quiet nature of the Psowaya Barsaya makes them excellent companions for those who prefer a peaceful home environment. They rarely bark without reason and move through the house with a calm demeanor that creates a serene atmosphere. This quietness, combined with their dignified presence, appeals to owners who find constant canine activity overwhelming or who live in situations where excessive noise would be problematic.

Climate considerations favor the Psowaya Barsaya's thick, insulating coat in cooler weather, where they thrive and enjoy outdoor activities. Hot weather requires more management, as their long coat and large body mass can lead to overheating during summer months. Access to air conditioning, shade, and fresh water during warm weather helps keep them comfortable. Many owners schedule exercise during cooler morning and evening hours during summer.

The companionship needs of the Psowaya Barsaya, while less demanding than some breeds, should not be underestimated. They form strong attachments to their families and do not thrive when isolated or left alone for extended periods. While they do not typically demand attention or create disturbances when their people are occupied, they prefer to be in the same space as family members and may become withdrawn if consistently excluded from household activities.

Retired individuals and those who work from home often find the Psowaya Barsaya an ideal companion. The breed's moderate exercise requirements, calm indoor demeanor, and appreciation for quiet companionship align well with less active lifestyles. Their presence provides gentle company without the constant demands of higher-energy breeds, making them wonderful companions for those seeking a peaceful, dignified canine partner.

Training the Psowaya Barsaya requires an approach that respects their independent nature while establishing the communication necessary for safe, harmonious living. These intelligent sighthounds are capable of learning but approach training with a discerning attitude that evaluates whether compliance serves their interests. Success comes through patient, positive methods that make training rewarding for the dog rather than through forceful techniques that damage trust.

The independent temperament of the Psowaya Barsaya means they do not share the eager-to-please attitude that makes some breeds easy to train. They are thinking dogs who consider requests before responding, sometimes appearing stubborn when they simply do not see the point of a particular exercise. This independence reflects their heritage as hunting partners who needed to make autonomous decisions during the chase, and it requires trainers who can work with rather than against this natural tendency.

Positive reinforcement methods work best with the Psowaya Barsaya, using rewards that motivate the individual dog. While some Borzoi respond well to food treats, others prefer play rewards or simply calm praise and acknowledgment. Finding what motivates each dog is key to successful training, as methods that work well with food-driven breeds may fail to engage a Borzoi who does not find treats particularly compelling. Building a relationship based on mutual respect creates the foundation for willing cooperation.

Basic obedience training should focus on essential commands that ensure safety and manageability. A reliable recall is particularly important given the breed's prey drive and tendency to chase, though owners must understand that even well-trained Borzoi may be unable to override their instinct when pursuing quarry. Training in secure areas and maintaining realistic expectations about off-leash reliability helps prevent disappointing and potentially dangerous situations.

Socialization during puppyhood establishes the foundation for a well-adjusted adult Psowaya Barsaya. Exposure to varied people, places, sounds, and experiences helps develop confidence and prevents the excessive shyness that can affect poorly socialized individuals. Puppy socialization classes provide structured opportunities for positive experiences while teaching basic manners in a controlled environment. The sensitive nature of the breed requires that socialization experiences remain positive, avoiding overwhelming situations that might create lasting fearfulness.

Exercise requirements for the Psowaya Barsaya include opportunities for full-speed running that allow expression of their natural athleticism. A secure, fenced area where they can sprint safely satisfies their need for speed in a controlled environment. Without access to running space, Borzoi may become frustrated, though they adapt better than some high-energy breeds to limited exercise when necessary. Daily walks of moderate duration maintain baseline fitness but do not fully substitute for running opportunities.

Lure coursing provides an ideal outlet for the Psowaya Barsaya's natural hunting instincts in a controlled, competitive setting. This sport uses an artificial lure that zigzags across a field, allowing sighthounds to demonstrate their speed, agility, and chase instinct safely. Many Borzoi enthusiastically participate in lure coursing, finding it a satisfying expression of their heritage. The sport provides excellent exercise while strengthening the bond between dog and owner through shared activity.

The timing of exercise relative to meals requires attention in the Psowaya Barsaya due to their susceptibility to bloat. Vigorous activity should be avoided for at least an hour before and after eating to reduce the risk of this potentially fatal condition. Scheduling exercise during cooler parts of the day in summer and avoiding excessive exertion in hot weather helps prevent heat-related stress. Monitoring the dog for signs of fatigue during activity ensures exercise remains beneficial rather than harmful.

Mental stimulation complements physical exercise for the Psowaya Barsaya's overall well-being. While they are not as demanding of mental challenges as some working breeds, they appreciate variety in their routine and respond to activities that engage their intelligence. Puzzle toys, scent games, and training sessions that introduce new skills provide mental enrichment that contributes to a satisfied, well-balanced companion.

The Psowaya Barsaya enjoys generally good health compared to many large breeds, though they are predisposed to certain conditions that responsible owners should understand and monitor. The average lifespan ranges from 9 to 14 years, which represents relatively good longevity for a dog of this size. Recent studies indicate an average life expectancy of approximately 12 years, comparable to other purebred dogs. Awareness of breed-specific health concerns enables early intervention and optimal care throughout the dog's life.

Preventive gastropexy surgery, which tacks the stomach to prevent twisting, may be recommended for at-risk individuals and can be performed during other surgical procedures. Understanding these breed-specific considerations allows owners to provide informed, proactive care that supports the longest, healthiest life possible for their beloved Psowaya Barsaya companion.

Grooming the Psowaya Barsaya maintains the beautiful coat that is one of the breed's most distinctive features while supporting overall health and strengthening the bond between dog and owner. The long, silky coat requires regular attention to prevent matting and keep the dog comfortable, though grooming needs are less demanding than some long-coated breeds due to the texture and distribution of the Borzoi's coat.

Brushing should occur at least two to three times weekly, with daily brushing being ideal, particularly during shedding seasons. A pin brush or slicker brush works well for working through the coat, while a wide-toothed comb helps address any tangles that have begun to form. Starting from the skin and working outward through the coat ensures thorough grooming that reaches the undercoat where mats often begin. The longer feathering on the legs, chest, hindquarters, and tail requires particular attention to prevent matting.

Shedding in the Psowaya Barsaya occurs year-round with heavier seasonal shedding typically once or twice yearly. During heavy shedding periods, daily brushing helps manage loose hair and prevents it from accumulating on furniture and clothing. Many owners find that regular brushing throughout the year minimizes the impact of seasonal shedding by keeping loose hair under control before it becomes problematic. A de-shedding tool or undercoat rake can help during heavy shedding periods.

Bathing frequency depends on the individual dog's lifestyle and coat condition, with most Psowaya Barsaya needing baths every four to eight weeks. The silky coat does not tend to hold odor as much as some coats, and excessive bathing can strip natural oils that keep the coat healthy and lustrous. Using a gentle shampoo designed for silky coats, followed by conditioner if desired, maintains coat health without over-drying. Thorough rinsing is essential to prevent residue buildup that can dull the coat or irritate the skin.

The large size of the Psowaya Barsaya can make bathing challenging for owners without appropriate facilities. A walk-in shower, utility tub, or outdoor bathing area with warm water makes the process more manageable. Some owners prefer professional grooming services for bathing, particularly during winter months when thorough drying is especially important. Professional groomers experienced with sighthounds understand the breed's coat requirements and can provide expert care.

Nail care requires regular attention, with nails typically needing trimming every two to four weeks depending on the dog's activity level and the surfaces on which they walk. The Psowaya Barsaya's hare-like feet have elongated toes that spread when running, and overgrown nails can interfere with proper foot function and movement. Regular trimming or grinding keeps nails at an appropriate length and prevents the discomfort and gait problems that can result from neglected nails.

Ear cleaning should be performed weekly or as needed to prevent wax buildup and potential infection. The Psowaya Barsaya's small, folded ears can trap moisture and debris, creating an environment conducive to infection if not kept clean. Using a veterinarian-approved ear cleaning solution and cotton balls, gently clean the visible portion of the ear canal without inserting anything deep into the ear. Monitoring for signs of infection such as odor, discharge, or head shaking allows early intervention if problems develop.

Dental care is important for the Psowaya Barsaya's overall health, with daily tooth brushing recommended to prevent periodontal disease. Dental chews and toys designed to clean teeth provide supplemental cleaning between brushings. Regular veterinary dental examinations identify problems early, and professional cleanings as recommended help maintain oral health throughout the dog's life. The long, narrow muzzle of the Borzoi can sometimes contribute to dental crowding issues that require monitoring.