Thinking about adding a Borzoi to your family? These dogs—sometimes called Russian Wolfhounds—are more than just elegant. They’re affectionate, graceful, and full of personality. Whether you’re drawn to their stunning looks or their gentle nature, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about Borzois, from their fascinating history to their care and quirks.
A Brief Look at Borzoi History
Let’s start with a little background. Borzois hail from Russia, where they were bred by aristocrats for one main purpose: hunting. Their name comes from the Russian word “borzyi” which means “swift.” And it fits—these dogs were trained to chase down wolves, foxes, and hares with incredible speed and agility.
Back in the day, owning a Borzoi wasn’t just about having a dog. It was a status symbol. Only the wealthy and powerful could afford them, and they became a favorite of Russian nobility.
Eventually, Borzois made their way to the United States in the late 19th century. People here fell in love with their regal appearance and calm demeanor, and their popularity hasn’t faded since.
What Do Borzois Look Like?
If you’ve seen a Borzoi, you know they’re hard to forget. They have a sleek, elegant build that almost seems too perfect to be real. Let’s break down their standout features:
- Size: Big but graceful. Males are 28–32 inches tall and weigh around 75–105 pounds. Females are slightly smaller.
- Coat: Long, silky, and luxurious. It can be wavy, flat, or even a little curly, and comes in a range of colors and patterns.
- Eyes: Dark, expressive, and soulful. Their gaze is part of what makes them look so gentle.
- Movement: Watching a Borzoi run is like watching poetry in motion. They’re all about smooth, fluid grace.
Personality: What Are Borzois Really Like?
Borzois are often called “gentle giants.” They’re calm, loving, and enjoy spending time with their family. But they can be a bit reserved with strangers.
Here’s what you can expect:
- Affectionate but not clingy: They love their people but enjoy a little independence.
- Quiet: Not big barkers. Your neighbors will thank you!
- Smart (but stubborn): They’ll learn what you want them to do, but don’t expect them to always do it.
- Sensitive: They respond best to gentle training and lots of positive reinforcement.
Think of them as the dog version of that classy, slightly introverted friend who’s great company but doesn’t feel the need to be the center of attention.
Health: What You Need to Watch For
Like any breed, Borzois come with some health risks. Knowing about these ahead of time can help you keep your pup happy and healthy:
- Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): This is a serious condition where the stomach twists, and it can be life-threatening. Prevent it by feeding smaller meals and avoiding exercise right after eating.
- Hip Dysplasia: Less common in Borzois than other large breeds, but still something to watch for.
- Heart Problems: Dilated cardiomyopathy is a potential issue. Regular heart checkups can help.
- Bone Cancer (Osteosarcoma): Large breeds, including Borzois, are at higher risk for this aggressive cancer.
- Eye Conditions: Keep an eye out (pun intended) for progressive retinal atrophy or cataracts.
Most Borzois live 10–12 years, but with good care, some make it to 14 or beyond.
Grooming: Keeping That Coat Gorgeous
Borzois are known for their flowing, silky coats. And while it’s stunning, it does take some work. Here’s how to keep your Borzoi looking and feeling great:
- Brush regularly: Aim for 2–3 times a week. This prevents tangles and reduces shedding.
- Baths: Every 4–6 weeks is fine, or as needed. Use a gentle, dog-specific shampoo.
- Nails: Trim every 2–3 weeks. Long nails can cause discomfort.
- Teeth: Brush their teeth a few times a week to prevent dental issues.
- Ears: Check weekly for dirt or signs of infection.
The effort is worth it. A well-groomed Borzoi is a sight to behold.
Exercise: How Much Do They Need?
Here’s the thing about Borzois: they’re sprinters, not marathon runners. While they’re capable of incredible bursts of speed, they’re also happy to nap most of the day.
What they need:
- Daily walks: A 30–60 minute walk will do the trick.
- Safe sprints: Let them run in a securely fenced area. Their prey drive is strong, so off-leash adventures in open spaces aren’t a great idea.
- Mental stimulation: Puzzle toys and scent games can keep their minds sharp.
Once they’ve had their daily dose of exercise, they’re content to lounge around like the elegant couch potatoes they are.
Training: Patience Is Key
Training a Borzoi is a bit like negotiating with a toddler. They’re smart, but they like to do things their way. That doesn’t mean you can’t train them—it just takes patience and consistency.
Tips for success:
- Start young: Early training and socialization are crucial.
- Keep it positive: Treats, praise, and gentle encouragement work wonders.
- Short sessions: Borzois can get bored easily, so don’t drag it out.
- Leash training: A must, given their tendency to chase after anything that moves.
Don’t expect your Borzoi to be the star of obedience competitions, but they’ll pick up basic commands and good manners with time.
What About Nutrition?
Feeding a Borzoi isn’t complicated, but there are a few things to keep in mind:
- High-quality food: Look for dog food with lots of protein and minimal fillers.
- Portion control: Overfeeding can lead to obesity and bloat.
- Meal timing: Split their food into 2–3 smaller meals a day.
- Fresh water: Always.
And, of course, avoid toxic foods like chocolate, grapes, onions, and anything fried or fatty.
Living with a Borzoi
Borzois are best suited to homes that match their calm and sensitive nature.
What they need:
- Space: A house with a yard is ideal, but they can adapt to apartment living if you meet their exercise needs.
- Climate considerations: Their thick coat protects them from the cold but can be challenging in hot weather.
- Compatibility: They’re gentle with kids but don’t love roughhousing. As for other pets? They may not mix well with smaller animals due to their prey drive.
Potential challenges? Their size can be tricky in small spaces, and their shedding might not appeal to everyone.
Why Choose a Borzoi?
If you’re looking for a dog that’s equal parts elegance and affection, the Borzoi might be the perfect fit. They’re great for calm households and bring a quiet, noble charm to any home.
Final Thoughts
Owning a Borzoi is a unique experience. They’re not just pets—they’re companions with history, grace, and personality. By understanding their needs and quirks, you’ll be rewarded with a loyal and loving friend for years to come.
Ready to welcome one of these gentle giants into your life? It’s a decision you won’t regret.
