The Borzoi is a large-sized breed. Males typically weigh between 34 and 48 kg when fully grown, while females weigh 27 to 39 kg. With an average lifespan of 9 to 14 years, the Borzoi is a moderately long-lived breed.
The Borzoi is a powerful and dignified breed with a calm, steady temperament. They are devoted to their families and can be gentle giants at home. They require an experienced owner who understands large breed needs. Proper training and socialisation from puppyhood are essential for a well-adjusted adult dog.
Borzoi dogs are active and need at least 1-2 hours of vigorous daily exercise. Long walks, hiking, and off-lead running in safe areas are ideal. They have good stamina and enjoy outdoor adventures. Puppies should have controlled exercise to protect growing joints. Mental stimulation through training is also essential.
As a large breed, Borzoi dogs may be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), and joint problems. Large breeds can also be susceptible to certain cancers and heart conditions. Feeding a large-breed-specific diet during growth helps prevent skeletal issues. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential for early detection of health problems.
Borzoi dogs need regular grooming including weekly brushing to manage their coat and reduce shedding. Bathing can be challenging due to their size — a walk-in shower or professional groomer may be helpful. Regular nail trimming is important. Check ears regularly, especially if they are floppy, as moisture can lead to infections.
The Borzoi or Russian Hunting Sighthound is a Russian breed of hunting dog of sighthound type. It was formerly used for wolf hunting; until 1936, the breed was known as the Russian Wolfhound.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Borzoi was the dog of Russian tsars and aristocrats for centuries; the Romanov imperial kennels kept hundreds, and gifting a Borzoi was one of the highest honours a tsar could bestow on a foreign dignitary. Tsar Nicholas II maintained vast royal kennels of Borzois at Gatchina Palace. Leo Tolstoy, who kept Borzois himself, featured hunting scenes with them in War and Peace, drawing on personal experience. After the 1917 Revolution the breed nearly vanished from Russia; its aristocratic associations made ownership dangerous; and its survival owes almost entirely to dogs already living in England and America.
Borzoi is an energetic breed requiring regular activity and suits homes with space to explore. Generally good with children, though supervision is advised during interactions. Generally compatible with other dogs, though early socialisation is important. Moderate grooming is needed to manage regular shedding. These dogs are quiet and reserved, rarely vocalising unnecessarily. Patient, firm training is needed as they can be somewhat independent. Neutral with unfamiliar people, they neither seek nor avoid strangers.
Dogpanion's take: AI-generated based on breed trait data.
A fully grown male Borzoi weighs approximately 41 kg on average. Use Dogpanion's free size predictor to estimate your Borzoi puppy's adult weight based on their current age and weight.
Dogpanion offers free tools to help you care for your Borzoi:
Free age calculator, size predictor, food safety checker, and health tracker for 350+ breeds.
Web App Coming SoonEvery ingredient verified safe. Use as occasional treats or meal toppers alongside a complete diet.