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Borzoi Dog Breed Info: Pictures, Characteristics & Facts

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By Nicole Cosgrove

smiling borzoi

Height: 26 – 28+ inches
Weight: 60 – 105 pounds
Lifespan: 10 – 14 years
Colors: Any color or combination of colors
Suitable for: Individuals or families looking for a laid-back and friendly dog
Temperament: Loyal, loving, adaptable, easygoing, independent

The Borzoi is a dog you can’t help but notice. They’re hard to miss, for one thing, being as large as some adults are. This dog has a regal manner, thanks to the breed’s early association with the Russian aristocracy. Then, there is their body shape and form. This is a gorgeous pup that many artists find photogenic and noteworthy.

The history of the Borzoi goes back to the 13th century. Their original purpose was to hunt wolves. The United Kennel Club (UKC) recognized the breed in 1914 and the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1891. The qualities of this noble breed made these decisions no-brainers.

It’s worth noting that this background meant that people were more likely to gift them to others than sell them. Their grace is even a part of the official breed standard. It’s fitting considering the conformation of the Borzoi from nose to tail. Despite their size, this pup is quite adaptable and can even be a city dweller.
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Borzoi Puppies

Borzoi puppies
Image Credit: slowmotiongli, Shutterstock
Energy
Trainability
Health
Lifespan
Sociability

Their background probably helps the Borzoi do well for a pet if you live in an apartment. This dog isn’t a barker, which also helps. That lifestyle is a boon, considering their wanderlust potential, meaning this dog will run if given a chance.

The Borzoi is laid-back with a moderate energy level. They will fare best if you can ensure they get enough activity to keep their weight in check. This pup isn’t overly playful. They’re happiest enjoying your company and hanging out together. That’s a good thing because they are prone to separation anxiety if left alone too long. However, they’re affectionate and want to share their love.

Despite their size, the Borzoi is relatively long-lived. Many similarly sized breeds have much shorter lives. If you prefer larger dogs, put this pup on your shortlist, as they have many qualities that you may find desirable.

3 Little-Known Facts About the Borzoi

1. The Borzoi Is Immortal

Not many breeds can claim to be a part of literature history like the Borzoi. Tolstoy immortalized the dog in his masterpiece, War and Peace. It’s not hard to see why the dog captivated this famous author. The novel is an excellent testament to the pooch’s charm.

2. The Borzoi Almost Became Extinct

The Borzoi’s association with the Russian aristocracy almost led to their demise during the Russian Revolution. The breed was a favorite of the Romanov family. They, like everyone else, were casualties of the war. It took several decades and the dedication of the Borzoi’s enthusiasts to save the dogs for future generations.

3. The Borzoi Started With a Different Breed Name

The Borzoi hunted wolves and was thus called the Russian Wolfhound. They earned the name because of their prowess. History tainted this moniker. That prompted American breeders to find more neutral grounds. They chose the Russian word, “borzyi,” meaning “swift” as a homage to the dog’s historical role.

borzoi
Image Credit: Jeannette1980, Pixabay

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Temperament & Intelligence of the Borzoi 🧠

You might think with the Borzoi’s history that this would be an aggressive dog, but that’s not the case with this pooch. Instead, you’ll find that they are affectionate and loyal. They are also intelligent, albeit with a stubborn streak that novice pet owners will find challenging. Their strong prey drive means that you should keep them in a fenced-in yard, too.

The background of the Borzoi made them fast runners. If you think they look like a Greyhound, you’d be right. The two are related. That accounts for their speed to chase after wolves. The temperament of this pup will likely remind you of a cat. How they carry themselves and their quiet manner are distinctly feline in nature.

Are These Dogs Good for Families? 🏡

The Borzoi is a social animal, and thus, will make an excellent family pet. They will even welcome strangers into your home. During the early days of the breed’s history, these dogs were guests at many lavish events attended by others in the aristocracy. You can almost say that socialization is inherent in the Borzoi.

It also isn’t much of a stretch to learn that this isn’t an overly playful dog. They will indulge you in a game of fetch, but they’re not a pup for roughhousing with the kids. They will do best in a home with older children who will respect their space.

Does This Breed Get Along With Other Pets? 🐶 😽

The events we mentioned earlier also included other dogs. Therefore, they will probably get along with other pets in your household. Because of their size, it might be problematic if you have smaller pups. The same caution applies to cats. If a feline runs from them, a Borzoi will give chase. This dog has a high wanderlust potential and the tenacity to see it through to the end.

double borzoi
Image Credit: Pikist

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Things to Know When Owning a Borzoi:

It’s a shame that this breed isn’t more popular. The Borzoi is a good-looking dog with lots of desirable qualities. However, owning a large pup like this one also has its challenges that a prospective buyer should know upfront. While this isn’t a vocal pooch, these dogs do have a moderate tendency to nip that you must curb while they’re a manageable size as a puppy. A full-grown adult is another story.

Their hunting background, with its formidable prey, means that the Borzoi has strong jaw and neck muscles. They are also courageous dogs that aren’t intimidated easily. Combined with their speed and size, that makes early training imperative.

Food & Diet Requirements 🦴

For a dog that is as large as the Borzoi is, they don’t have the appetite to match. That’s because of their lean form, which gives them only a low propensity to gain weight. It’s essential to give your pup a food formulated for canines of their size. These dogs mature slower than smaller breeds. Consequently, their diets are less calorie-dense than a Yorkshire Terrier, for example.

Also, we recommend giving your pooch a diet that is appropriate for their life stage. Puppy foods are more nutrient-dense to support their early development. You can start by offering your Borzoi three meals a day. You can cut it back to two once they get older. Encourage your dog to eat as soon as you put down the bowl. Give them about 30 minutes and then pick it up from the floor.

Exercise 🐕

The fact that Borzoi is a fast runner should tell you everything you need to know about how much exercise they must get. It’s an essential trait for their original job. Wolves are tireless, too. If you’re going to control the population, an equally matched opponent is crucial. As we’ve discussed, the high wanderlust potential means that you’ll have to supervise their activity outdoors.

We recommend at least an hour of walking, running, or playing each day. That will satisfy the Borzoi’s need for exercise and keep this intelligent pup mentally stimulated. That’s essential for their overall health. Their social nature means that they will play nice at the dog park. However, supervision is vital because of their size. The setting may get them too excited to interact with smaller dogs.

Training 🦮

When you combine intelligence and independence, you know it’s going to be a handful. However, it’s not impossible to train them, you just need to assert yourself as the boss in your relationship. Bear in mind that this pup is sensitive to harsh reprimands. That’s not the way to connect with them. Instead, try positive reinforcement with treats, as you’ll have better luck.

Consistency is key. Remember that the Borzoi is smart. However, many pups, like this one, are eager to please. This dog just needs the right direction for you to make it happen, so stay persistent.

closeup borzoi
Image Credit: Jeannette1980, Pixabay

Grooming ✂️

The Borzoi has a long coat that requires regular care. We suggest brushing them at least every couple of days to keep mats under control. A pin brush is an ideal tool for the job. It’s also an excellent time to bond with your pooch. Makes sure to check their ears for trimming and their toenails for clipping. This dog is one that you want to always look their best.

Health and Conditions ❤️

Overall, the Borzoi is a relatively healthy pup. Surprisingly, elbow and hip dysplasia aren’t significant problems with a dog of this size. They do have other issues that are equally as much of a concern, though.

Minor Conditions
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Allergies
  • Cataracts
Serious Conditions
  • Degenerative myelopathy
  • Heart issues
  • Bloat
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Male vs. Female

There are both size and personality differences between the sexes. Males and females are significantly disparate in size if that’s a consideration for you. Males carry themselves as decidedly masculine and confident. Likewise, the females are feminine with all the grace you’d expect from a pup with their background.

In any case, consult with your veterinarian about the best time to spay or neuter your pet if you don’t intend to breed them. More pups are still intact, perhaps because of their scarcity.

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Final Thoughts

Few breeds have the charisma as the Borzoi. The pup’s connection with nobility speaks a lot to what you can expect from inviting this dog into your home. This dog brings along their history as a hunter of wolves with the dignity that is befitting of a canine that socialized with royalty. This dog is relatively laid-back with few needs other than enough exercise to satisfy their Greyhound roots.

If you have the time and space to keep them happy, the Borzoi is an excellent choice for families, especially those with older children. The breed is adaptable, so even if you don’t have a fenced-in yard, they’ll still fare well as a city dog. In return, you’ll have a loyal and affectionate pooch that is relatively low maintenance.


Featured Image Credit: Pikist

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