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Borzoi

Borzoi is a giant hound breed from Russia also known as Russian Wolfhound.

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Borzoi

Breed overview

Borzoi is a giant hound breed from Russia also known as Russian Wolfhound.

A tall sighthound breed from Russia, historically kept by aristocracy for coursing wolves and hare in hunting parties.

People looking into Borzoi usually prepare for Moderate exercise needs, High grooming needs, 60–105 lbs • 26–28 in.

Russian Wolfhound

History and origin

Borzoi is tied to originating from Russia, specifically Russian nobility estates, with sources often placing its development around 1600 CE.

Borzoi is described here as placed in the hound group and marked as an established breed.

A tall sighthound breed from Russia, historically kept by aristocracy for coursing wolves and hare in hunting parties.

Browse dog breeds from Russia Browse more hound breeds

Quick facts

Breed group
hound
Size
Giant
Origin country
Russia
Region
Russian nobility estates
Origin year
1600 CE
Weight
60–105 lbs
Height
26–28 in
Lifespan
10–13 years
Breed status
Established

Traits and day-to-day fit

Energy level
2 / 5
Trainability
2 / 5
Good with children
3 / 5
Shedding level
4 / 5
Barking tendency
1 / 5
Moderate exercise needsHigh grooming needsChildren score: 3/5Trainability: 2/5

Coat and classification

Borzoi is grouped here with these coat and texture descriptors.

LongSilkyFlat

Borzoi is also listed as recognized by these kennel-club organizations.

Recognized by AKCRecognized by FCIRecognized by CKCRecognized by KCRecognized by KCA

Appearance and build

  • Tall, elegant sighthound
  • Long, silky coat with feathering
  • Narrow, aristocratic head
  • Deep chest and curved spine

What this breed is known for

  • A tall sighthound breed from Russia, historically kept by aristocracy for coursing wolves and hare in hunting parties.
  • Borzoi are elegant and graceful, with long, silky coats and a greyhound-like build. They can be very fast, using sight to spot and chase prey across open fields.
  • They are quiet, dignified dogs with a relatively independent nature. Indoors they are generally calm couch-loungers, but outdoors they have a strong chase instinct and require a safe, fenced area or leashed exercise.

Health and care notes

Borzoi is noted here for Moderate exercise needs and High grooming needs.

  • Bloat
  • Heart Conditions
  • Osteosarcoma
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy

Coat details: Long, Silky, Flat

These are informational breed-guide notes, not veterinary advice.

Frequently asked questions

Where does the Borzoi come from?

Borzoi is closely associated with Russia, especially Russian nobility estates in the sources used for this page.

How big does a Borzoi get?

Typical size details for Borzoi on this page are 60–105 lbs, 26–28 in, 10–13 years.

What is the Borzoi known for?

A tall sighthound breed from Russia, historically kept by aristocracy for coursing wolves and hare in hunting parties.

Sources and citations

References below include kennel-club profiles, breed standards, and supporting background links for deeper reading.
  1. American Kennel Club breed profile
    American Kennel Club
  2. Royal Kennel Club breed profile
    The Royal Kennel Club
  3. Royal Kennel Club breed standard
    The Royal Kennel Club • Breed standard
  4. Borzoi reference page
    Wikipedia

Use the linked breed directories and standards for deeper reference. Breed guides are informational and do not replace veterinary or breeder advice.