What is the Borzoi like at home?

At home it is extremely calm, quiet and docile, with a cat-like character. Outdoors, however, it is a fast and determined hunter.

Can a Borzoi be let off leash?

Because of its strong prey drive and high speed, open areas are risky. It should not be let off leash outside secure, fenced areas.

What health issues matter for the Borzoi?

Gastric torsion (GDV) and the anesthesia sensitivity typical of sighthounds are the main concerns; it is important that your vet is aware of this sensitivity.

How long does a Borzoi live?

It lives 9-14 years on average. Bloat precautions, heart check-ups and regular veterinary follow-up are important.

Where can I adopt a Borzoi?

You can browse adoption listings for the Borzoi and similar breeds on PatiBase.

Dog BreedHounds

Borzoi

Origin: Russia

With its noble bearing and silky coat, the Borzoi (Russian Wolfhound) is a striking sighthound breed with an elegant, calm and independent temperament.

Size: Large
Lifespan: 9 - 14 years
Coat: Long Coat
Group: Hounds

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Gallery

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Image:Deb from We are in Montoursville, PA , in the beautiful Susquehanna Valley of central Pennsylvania, USA CC BY 2.0

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Temperament & Character

GentleIndependentCalmLoyal

Sociability

Moderate

Trainability

Low

Playfulness

Low

Energy Level

High

Care

Shedding

Moderate

Barking Tendency

Very Low

About the Breed

Origin and History

The Borzoi (Russian Wolfhound) is an elegant sighthound developed by the Russian nobility for coursing wolves and large game. It hunts by sight and is an extremely fast and noble breed.

Appearance and Coat

It has a large, long and slender body, a narrow head and a graceful bearing. Its silky, wavy long coat protects it from the cold and gives it a striking appearance. It sheds moderately.

Temperament and Personality

The Borzoi is calm, gentle and independent; at home it is quiet and docile, with a cat-like character. It is devoted to its owner but reserved. It has a strong prey drive and tends to chase anything that moves. It has a sensitive, perceptive temperament.

Care, Exercise and Training

Its silky long coat needs regular brushing. It needs daily free running, but a secure, fenced area is essential because of its strong prey drive. Its independent and sensitive nature calls for gentle, patient training; it does not respond well to harsh methods.

Health

Because of its deep chest, gastric torsion (GDV/bloat) is a significant risk in the Borzoi. Sensitivity to anesthesia, typical of sighthounds (low body fat), and heart problems may also occur. Regular heart check-ups and bloat precautions are recommended. The Borzoi suits owners looking for an elegant, calm and independent dog who can provide a secure running area and a patient approach.

PatiBase tip: Keep all vaccines, check-ups and treatment history in a digital health record, and track vet appointments with reminders in the app.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Borzoi

Looking for a Home

Borzoi & Mixes

There are no listings for this breed right now. New listings are added every day — you can browse all dog listings in the meantime.

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