The Borzoi is a tall, lean and aristocratic looking dog that belongs to the group of sight hound dog breeds. In fact the Borzoi resembles another sight hound, the Greyhound, only with long hair. This breed carries an air of majesty and nobility, reminiscent of the Russian aristocracy that once favored these magnificent hounds for wolf hunting. In fact, this historical link is so strong that these dogs are also sometimes known as Russian Wolfhounds.
Borzois are members of the American Kennel Club (AKC) Hound Group.
Characteristics and Appearance
This Wolfhound has a long narrow head with almost no ‘stop’ at its eyes and small ears that lay flat against its head. It has a long, defining, silky and wavy coat with a thick mane or ruff at its neck. Their coat, which can be any color, is most commonly white with darker markings.
The Borzoi’s appearance is striking, with a long and lean body that seems built for strength and speed. Its gait is fluid and effortless, a beautiful movement to watch. Despite their size, Borzois move with a grace and elegance that is truly captivating. Their gentle expression, framed by their long, silky coat, reflects the breed’s calm and affectionate nature.
These dogs stand around 27 to 33 inches at the shoulder and weighing between 65 to 110 pounds. Males tend to be larger, approximately 30 to 33 inches tall at shoulder height and female dogs about 27 to 30 inches. Males tend to be heavier too, weighing from 85 to 110 pounds and females from 65 to 85 pounds.
Their long, narrow heads and small ears that lay flat give them a unique, refined appearance, setting them apart from other sighthounds.
History of the Borzois
The Borzoi was developed for speed and endurance in the harsh Russian climate. The word ‘borzoi’ in Russian means swift. These Russian Wolfhounds were owned by the aristocracy in pre-revolutionary Russia and used for the popular sport and pageant of wolf hunting.
The Wolfhounds were brought to England as a gift for Queen Victoria in 1842 and were first exported to the U.S. in l889. The Borzoi was ranked 89th out of 154 dog breeds in AKC registrations in 2004.
Temperament of a Borzois
Borzois are kind, gentle, well-behaved indoors and a quiet dog breed. They are a breed that likes lots of attention and loves to recline on a soft bed, a lap or even a couch. Like many sight hounds, Borzois are content to be ‘couch potatoes’ when they are inside.
Borzois enjoy the company of other sighthounds but the breed is not good with small pets and young children unless raised with them. Borzois don’t need an exorbitant amount of exercise and should never be let off leash except in an enclosed fenced-in area.
These Wolfhounds, like all sight hounds, will rapidly chase after any small animal it considers as a prey. Borzois are slow to mature but that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t have early socialization and play-type obedience training when they are puppies.
These Wolfhounds are somewhat wary of strangers but don’t make particularly good watchdogs. The breed is intelligent but they are difficult to obedience train to a high level. Borzois require knowledgeable training and do best with experienced owners. They are not a good choice for inexperienced owners, or those with young families.
Training and Exercise
Borzois can adapt to being left alone during the day as long as they receive morning and evening walks and lots of attention. They don’t require excessively long runs or vigorous exercise and indoors they behave like couch-potatoes. This breed shouldn’t be left alone in a fenced yard as they can jump 6 foot fences. They will have a tendency to ‘loup the fence’ and give chase to small animals or any unfamiliar animal it considers prey. It’s part of their inherent nature.
Training a Borzoi requires patience and understanding of their independent nature. They respond best to positive reinforcement and gentle, consistent training methods. Early socialization and basic obedience training are important for these dogs, helping them become well-adjusted and obedient companions. While they may not excel in high-level obedience competitions, Borzois can enjoy and succeed in activities that suit their nature. Activities such as lure coursing and agility, where they can showcase their speed and grace.
If you are lucky enough to have access to large fields, that are well secured with high fences, then they will love you for the opportunity to run off the lead.
Grooming
Borzois shed their coats in the spring and to a lesser extent in the fall. During these periods of shedding, these hounds should be brushed daily. The rest of the time, Borzois still need to be brushed a few times per week to prevent tangles and mats, especially in the mane or ruff. While they don’t typically need frequent baths, they should be kept clean and dry shampooed as needed.
Attention should also be given to their nails, ears, and teeth to ensure overall health and comfort. Clipping the hair between the toes will help prevent discomfort and maintain their elegant appearance.
Health Considerations
Borzois should live from 9 to 12 years and are usually fairly healthy. They are susceptible to bloat (gastric torsion) and should be fed smaller meals 2 or 3 times per day. You should avoid exercising these dogs immediately after eating. Due to their size, they can also be at risk for joint issues such as hip dysplasia. Prospective owners should be aware of these health concerns and consider preventive measures and regular health screenings.
Family Compatibility
Borzois are known for their kind and gentle nature, making them well-suited to families with older children or those who appreciate the breed’s calm demeanor. They are not the best choice for families with very small pets or small children though, due to their strong prey drive. They should never be left unattended in the presence of young children.
The breed generally enjoys being part of the family and does well in homes where they can relax and be close to their loved ones. They truly embody the role of a noble and affectionate companion, in the right environment.