The Borzoi, once called the Russian Wolfhound, is one of the most elegant and noble dog breeds in the world. Famous for their long silky coats, gentle nature, and lightning speed, Borzois were bred by Russian aristocrats centuries ago to hunt wolves and hares. Today, they’re better known as calm, affectionate companions who bring both beauty and loyalty into a family.
Let’s take a closer look at the appearance, temperament, care, and history of this stunning breed—and see why Borzois are often described as “gentle giants with a royal touch.”
Physical Characteristics
The Borzoi is tall, slender, and built for speed. Males usually stand 28 inches or taller at the shoulder and weigh 75–105 pounds, while females are slightly smaller at 26 inches tall and 60–85 pounds.
Their long, silky coat is one of their most striking features. It can be flat, wavy, or even curly, with feathering on the tail, legs, and neck. Colors vary widely, but white with patches is most common.
With their long legs, deep chest, narrow body, and arched back, Borzois look like they were designed for running—and they were! These hounds can reach speeds of 35 to 40 miles per hour, making them one of the fastest dog breeds.
Their long, narrow head and dark almond-shaped eyes give them a refined, almost regal expression that matches their calm personality.
Temperament and Personality
Borzois are known for their gentle, reserved, and loyal nature. They bond deeply with their families but can be a little aloof with strangers. Don’t mistake their calmness for coldness—once they trust you, Borzois are affectionate and incredibly loving.
They are independent thinkers, thanks to their hunting background, which means they may not always follow commands right away. Training requires patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement.
Despite being fast runners outdoors, Borzois are often quiet couch potatoes indoors. They adapt well to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise. Their calm temperament makes them excellent companions for older children, though they may accidentally knock over smaller kids due to their size.
Exercise and Activity Needs
Even though they are calm indoors, Borzois need daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. Long walks, play sessions, and opportunities to sprint in a securely fenced yard are essential.
Because of their high prey drive, Borzois should never be trusted off-leash in open, unfenced areas—they’ll chase anything that moves, from squirrels to rabbits.
Grooming and Care
The Borzoi’s coat is long, silky, and beautiful—but it does require care. Brushing two to three times a week keeps their fur smooth and prevents tangles, especially in the feathering areas.
Once a year, Borzois shed heavily, and during this time, more frequent brushing is needed. Despite their glamorous look, they don’t need constant baths—just occasional ones when dirty.
Health and Diet
Like many large, deep-chested breeds, Borzois are prone to bloat (gastric torsion), a life-threatening condition. Feeding them smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding vigorous exercise after eating can help reduce the risk.
Other potential health concerns include hip and elbow dysplasia and eye conditions. They are also sensitive to anesthesia because of their low body fat, so veterinary care should always be approached with caution.
Feeding them a high-quality large-breed diet keeps them strong and supports their lean muscles.
A Royal History
The Borzoi’s story is deeply tied to Russian aristocracy. For centuries, they were bred by nobles to hunt wolves and hares in vast hunting estates. They were considered a symbol of wealth and elegance.
After the Russian Revolution of 1917, the breed nearly disappeared because of its association with the czars and nobility. Thankfully, Borzois had already been gifted to European and American dignitaries, which saved the breed from extinction.
Until 1936, Borzois were known as the Russian Wolfhound, before officially being renamed. The word Borzoi comes from an old Russian word meaning “swift.” if you’re curious about other big, bold, and affectionate breeds, be sure to check out our large dog article for more insights.
Borzoi Fact Table – The Aristocrats of the Dog World
| Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed Name | Borzoi (also called Russian Wolfhound) |
| Origin | Russia – bred by nobles for hunting wolves |
| Size | Large (males: 28–32 in / females: 26–30 in) |
| Weight | 60–105 lbs (27–48 kg) |
| Coat | Long, silky, wavy or curly |
| Colors | Wide variety – white, cream, gold, black, brindle, and more |
| Temperament | Gentle, elegant, loyal, independent thinker |
| Energy Level | Moderate indoors, loves sprinting outdoors |
| Special Talent | Incredible speed (up to 40 mph) with graceful agility |
| Life Span | 10–14 years |
| Fun Fact | Known as “Velvet Speedsters” – calm couch companions at home, lightning-fast runners outside! |
Borzoi Lifespan
Borzoi dogs live an average of 10 to 14 years, spending their days blending elegance with affection. These gentle giants enjoy a long, graceful life when given the right care—balanced nutrition, regular vet checkups, and space to sprint like the wind. While their speed is breathtaking, their loyalty is timeless. Every year with a Borzoi feels like living beside a piece of art that loves you back.
Check out our Borzoi Dog Age Calculator to better understand your dog’s age in human years and monitor their health milestones.
Borzoi Puppies
Borzoi puppies aren’t just dogs – they’re living works of art. With their elegant, swan-like necks, silky coats, and soulful eyes, these gentle companions bring both beauty and warmth into any home. Playful yet dignified, Borzoi puppies grow into loyal protectors who adore their families. Whether racing across open fields or curling up beside you, they’re the perfect blend of grace, speed, and affection.
Borzoi Breeders
Trusted Borzoi breeders are more than dog lovers—they’re custodians of a centuries-old legacy. With passion and precision, they raise puppies that reflect the Borzoi’s hallmark grace, gentle spirit, and aristocratic beauty. The best breeders focus on health, temperament, and socialization, ensuring every pup grows into a loyal companion as dazzling as their heritage. Choosing the right Borzoi breeder means welcoming not just a dog, but a timeless work of living art into your life.
Borzoi Personality
The Borzoi personality is a beautiful balance of grace and goofiness. Known as calm, quiet, and dignified indoors, these elegant hounds transform into swift, playful sprinters outdoors. They’re affectionate without being clingy, independent yet deeply loyal, with a touch of aristocratic charm. Borzoi dogs often seem like old souls—gentle with family, polite with strangers, and always carrying themselves like royalty. Behind their statuesque elegance lies a heart full of love, wrapped in silky fur.
Borzoi Dog Price
Owning a Borzoi is like welcoming elegance wrapped in fur, but such beauty comes at a price. On average, Borzoi puppies cost between $1,500 and $5,000, depending on pedigree, breeder reputation, and location. Show-quality Borzoi from champion bloodlines can even reach $7,000 or more. Beyond the initial price tag, their upkeep—premium food, grooming, and health care—also reflects their noble stature. While not the cheapest companions, Borzoi are truly priceless in grace, loyalty, and love.
Borzoi Food
Feeding a Borzoi isn’t just about filling a bowl—it’s about fueling elegance in motion. These tall, athletic hounds thrive on a balanced diet rich in lean protein, healthy fats, and essential nutrients to support their silky coats and sprinting muscles. Quality kibble, fresh meat, and vet-approved supplements help keep them in peak condition. Because Borzoi have deep chests, smaller, frequent meals are safer than one large serving, reducing the risk of bloat. With the right food, your Borzoi will shine with health, energy, and timeless beauty.
Long Faced Dogs
With their refined features and aristocratic charm, long-faced dogs stand out as the supermodels of the canine world. Breeds like the Borzoi, Greyhound, Afghan Hound, and Saluki carry their elongated muzzles with unmatched grace, giving them a look that’s both regal and timeless. Their sleek faces aren’t just for beauty—these shapes were designed for speed, agility, and sharp vision on the hunt. Whether sprinting across open fields or lounging like royalty, long-faced dogs embody a blend of elegance, intelligence, and gentle spirit.
Borzoi Temperament
The Borzoi temperament is a graceful mix of gentleness, loyalty, and quiet confidence. Known for their calm indoor manners, they are affectionate with family yet carry an air of dignified independence. While sensitive and sweet-natured, Borzoi are also sighthounds at heart—alert, intelligent, and always ready to chase when something catches their eye. They aren’t loud or demanding, but instead communicate with soft devotion and aristocratic poise. A Borzoi will happily lounge by your side like royalty… until it’s time to unleash their lightning-fast sprint outdoors.
Borzoi Puppy Breeder
A dedicated Borzoi puppy breeder isn’t just raising dogs—they’re nurturing a legacy of grace, loyalty, and beauty. The best breeders focus on health, temperament, and socialization, ensuring each Borzoi pup grows into a gentle, confident companion with that signature aristocratic charm. From silky coats to playful personalities, every detail is cared for with love and expertise. Choosing the right Borzoi puppy breeder means welcoming more than a pet—you’re bringing home a piece of living art raised with heart.
Long Nose Dog Breeds
Long nose dog breeds, like the Borzoi, Greyhound, Saluki, and Afghan Hound, are the sleek athletes of the canine world. Their elongated muzzles aren’t just striking—they’re designed for keen eyesight, powerful scenting, and aerodynamic speed. These elegant hounds combine beauty with purpose, carrying themselves with aristocratic charm while staying gentle, loyal, and affectionate with their families. Whether sprinting like the wind or lounging like royalty, long nose dog breeds embody a rare mix of power and poise.
Russian Wolfhound Breeders
Russian Wolfhound breeders, also known as Borzoi breeders, are the keepers of a regal legacy. With careful dedication, they raise puppies that embody the breed’s trademark grace, speed, and gentle temperament. The best breeders prioritize health, proper socialization, and bloodline integrity, ensuring each pup grows into a loyal companion as breathtaking as their aristocratic heritage. Choosing a trusted Russian Wolfhound breeder means welcoming not just a dog, but a piece of living history—an elegant partner raised with expertise and love.
Borzoi Mix
A Borzoi mix combines the aristocratic grace of the Borzoi with the unique traits of another breed, creating a one-of-a-kind companion. Whether crossed with Greyhounds for extra speed, Huskies for endurance, or Shepherds for loyalty, Borzoi mixes bring together the best of two worlds. They often keep the Borzoi’s signature long face, silky coat, and calm nature—yet carry a spark of individuality that makes them stand out. With a Borzoi mix, you don’t just get a pet—you get a living masterpiece of elegance and personality.
Borzoi Black
The Black Borzoi is the epitome of mystery and grace, draped in a sleek, flowing coat that shimmers like midnight velvet. With their long, statuesque frame and noble presence, black-coated Borzois embody both power and sophistication. Whether solid black or accented with white, these striking hounds turn every walk into a runway moment. A Borzoi in black isn’t just a dog—it’s a masterpiece of elegance, loyalty, and timeless style.
Borzoi Health Problems
While Borzois are known for their elegance and longevity, like all breeds, they have a few health concerns owners should watch for. Their deep chests make them prone to bloat (gastric torsion), a serious condition requiring immediate attention. They can also face issues such as hip and elbow dysplasia, heart conditions, and certain cancers. Because Borzois are sensitive to anesthesia and some medications, specialized veterinary care is key. With regular checkups, a healthy diet, and plenty of love, most Borzois enjoy 10–14 graceful years by their family’s side.
FAQs About Borzoi
Are Borzois good family dogs?
Yes, Borzois are affectionate and gentle with their families. They’re especially good with older children who know how to interact respectfully.
Do Borzois get along with other pets?
They can live peacefully with other dogs, but their high prey drive makes them risky companions for cats or small animals unless raised together.
How much exercise do Borzois need?
They need at least an hour of exercise daily, including long walks and time to run in a secure area.
Do Borzois bark a lot?
No, Borzois are generally quiet dogs. They’re more likely to be reserved observers than noisy barkers.
How often should I groom a Borzoi?
Brush them two to three times a week, and more often during heavy shedding season.
Are Borzois easy to train?
They’re intelligent but independent. Training takes patience, consistency, and gentle methods—harsh corrections won’t work.
How long do Borzois live?
On average, Borzois live 10 to 12 years, though with good care, some may live longer.
Final Thought
The Borzoi is a truly unique dog—graceful, gentle, and full of quiet charm. Once bred for royalty, they now shine as loving family companions who balance elegance with affection. While their size, grooming, and exercise needs may not suit every household, for the right owner, the Borzoi is a loyal, calm, and unforgettable companion. If you Want to explore the breed standard, temperament, and care guidelines in more detail? Check out the official Borzoi on wikipedia.