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Borzoi
Hound

Borzoi

Origin: Russia

RegalQuietIndependentGentleAthletic

Weight

55–105 lbs

Height

26–32 inches

Lifespan

10–12 years

Coat

Long, silky, and flat or wavy coat with a profuse frill on the neck

Breeder Cost

$1,500–$3,000

Adoption Cost

$250–$450

Personality & Temperament

The Borzoi is a stately and graceful sighthound known for its calm and quiet demeanor indoors. While they are affectionate and loyal with their families, they possess an independent, cat-like nature and a very strong chase instinct outdoors.

Best For

A calm, patient owner with experience handling sighthounds and access to a securely fenced area for safe sprinting.

Exercise & Activity Needs

Requires daily walks combined with regular opportunities to run at top speed in a securely fenced area.

Grooming & Coat Care

Weekly brushing is necessary to maintain their silky coat and remove loose hairs, with increased shedding during seasonal shedding periods.

Coat type: Long, silky, and flat or wavy coat with a profuse frill on the neck

Common Health Conditions

The Borzoi is generally a sturdy breed. Primary health concerns include Gastric Torsion (Bloat), Osteosarcoma, Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA). Regular veterinary checkups, appropriate health screenings, and responsible breeding practices help minimize these risks.

Gastric Torsion (Bloat)

A life-threatening twisting of the stomach that requires immediate veterinary attention.

Osteosarcoma

An aggressive bone cancer that can affect large and giant breed dogs.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA)

A degenerative eye disorder that eventually causes blindness.

History & Origin

Developed in Russia by crossing Arabian greyhounds with thick-coated Russian sheepdogs, Borzoi were used by nobility for centuries in grand coursing expeditions.

Interesting Facts

  • 1

    Their name comes from the Russian word 'borzoy', which translates to 'swift'.

  • 2

    Despite their immense size and speed, they are notoriously quiet and rarely bark.

  • 3

    They spend a surprising amount of the day lounging on couches despite their athletic prowess.

Cost of Ownership

Owning a Borzoi is a long-term financial commitment. Here's a realistic breakdown of what to budget for.

Annual Cost

$1,200–$2,500

First Year (incl. setup)

$2,200–$4,000

Food$600–$900/yr

High-quality large-breed food

Vet Care$400–$800/yr

Routine checkups and preventative care

Grooming$100–$300/yr

Mostly home brushing with occasional professional maintenance

Supplies & Toys$100–$500/yr

Leashes, heavy-duty toys, and bedding

* Estimates based on national averages. Costs vary by location, lifestyle, and individual health needs. Emergency vet visits are not included.

Plan daily life with your Borzoi

Use the guides below to compare practical options alongside this breed's care needs.

Pet Tech Essentials

The right technology makes dog ownership easier, safer, and more connected — whether you're home or away. These are the products our editors consider must-haves for every dog owner.

Breed Traits

Best forapartment living · multi-pet homes
Not idealfirst-time owners
Positive for ownersNeeds managementInformational
Energy Level
Moderate
Trainability
Low
Apartment OK
High
Kid-Friendly
Moderate
Pet-Friendly
Moderate
Affection Level
Moderate
Grooming
Moderate
Shedding
High

Temperament

Barking
Very Low
Protective
Low
Sep. Anxiety
Moderate
Stubbornness
High
Noise Sensitive
Moderate

Climate & Physical

Heat Tolerance
Low
Cold Tolerance
High
Water Affinity
Very Low
Drool Level
Very Low

Compatibility

Rural & Outdoor

Livestock Safe
Very Low
Off-Leash Reliable
Very Low

Scores reflect breed tendencies. Individual training significantly affects both livestock safety and off-leash reliability.

Dog Friendly
High
Cat Friendly
Low
Prey Drive
Very High
!
Best for experienced owners

Health & Longevity

Health Score
Good (7/10)

Based on breed-specific genetic health risks and common conditions

Longevity
10–12 years
5 yrs20 yrs
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Consider Adopting

Many Borzois are waiting in shelters and breed-specific rescues. Adoption costs are typically $250–$450 vs. $1,500–$3,000 from a breeder.

Read our Rescue Guide →
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Download the Borzoi Guide

Get a printable PDF with traits, cost of ownership, health notes, and best-fit summary — free.

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