The Borzoi is a tall, elegant sighthound from Russia with a long, silky coat and a gentle, independent nature. The Borzoi is loyal, affectionate and calm, a loving family dog that loves its people deeply — on its own terms.
Quick Facts
- Origin: Russia.
- Group: Hound.
- Lifespan: 9–14 years.
- Weight: 27–48 kg.
- Height: 68–85 cm at the shoulder.
- Temperament: Gentle, loyal, independent, calm.
- Good with kids: Yes — best with older children, with supervision.
- Good with other pets: Yes, with early socialisation.
- Exercise needs: High — about 1.5 hours a day.
- Grooming: Moderate — long silky coat, regular brushing.
Temperament & Personality
Borzois are gentle, loyal and deeply loyal to their family. They bond closely with their people and are famously aloof with strangers — a Borzoi will not fawn over someone it does not know. They are calm indoors and love a routine. They are sighthounds through and through: they love to run, chase and explore, and they need a job to do. They can be stubborn and easily distracted, so training needs patience and consistency. They love company but are not needy — a Borzoi is happy to rest nearby and watch over the family.
Health
Borzois are generally healthy and long-lived for a dog of their size. Known issues include heart disease, gastric torsion (bloat — a serious emergency in deep-chested dogs), eye problems, hip dysplasia, and cancer. Buy from a breeder who health-tests the parents, feed smaller meals, and see the vet regularly.
Training
Borzois are intelligent but independent, and training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards. Short, fun, reward-based sessions work best, and early socialisation helps them stay confident with strangers, children and other dogs. Teach a reliable recall from puppyhood: a Borzoi on a chase will not come back. Harsh methods damage trust — and a Borzoi remembers.
Food & Nutrition
A Borzoi needs a good-quality complete food in measured meals — two meals a day suit most adults. Treats should be counted as part of the daily intake. Borzois are lean, active dogs and should stay lean — you should be able to feel the ribs easily. Because Borzois can bloat, feed smaller meals and avoid exercise right after eating. A vet can advise the right amount for your dog’s age and weight, and fresh water should always be available.
Grooming
The Borzoi’s long, silky coat needs brushing two to three times a week to prevent tangles, plus extra care around the ears and legs. Baths only when dirty. The ears should be checked weekly, nails trimmed regularly, and teeth brushed. Borzois shed moderately.
Exercise
A Borzoi needs about 1.5 hours of activity a day: walks, running and training games, plus mental work such as scent games and puzzle feeders. They are big dogs with plenty of energy — a Borzoi needs to run and think every day. Without it, expect chewing, barking and restlessness. They need a secure garden: a Borzoi can clear a fence with ease.
Is the Borzoi Right for You?
The Borzoi suits owners with space who want a gentle, loyal companion and can give it exercise, training and plenty of company every day. It does well in houses with a large garden. It is less suited to flats, first-time owners, or anyone wanting an obedient, eager-to-please dog.
FAQs
Are Borzois good for first-time owners?
They can be a handful. Borzois are gentle and trainable, but their independence, size and prey drive make them a challenging first dog.
Do Borzois shed a lot?
Moderately. Their long coat sheds all year but is easy to manage with regular brushing.
How much exercise does a Borzoi need every day?
About 1.5 hours of walks, running and play, plus training to keep the mind busy.
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