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Borzoi
Hound breed from Russia
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Borzoi
The Borzoi is a large sighthound breed originating in Russia. It is known for its long, silky coat and elegant, aristocratic bearing. Temperament descriptions include gentle, independent, calm, intelligent, and affectionate, though individual dogs vary. The breed is categorized as a Hound and its recognition status varies by registry. Estimated adult weight ranges from 34 to 48 kg for both sexes, and estimated height from 71 to 81 cm. Estimated lifespan is 9 to 14 years. Energy and trainability are rated 3 out of 5, grooming need 4, shedding 3. Child suitability and dog compatibility are rated 3, while apartment suitability is 2.
Quick facts
Borzoi at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupHound
OriginRussia
Lifespan9–14 years
Male weight34–48 kilogram
Female weight34–48 kilogram
Male height71–81 centimetre
Female height71–81 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Borzoi was developed by Russian aristocracy, with historical records indicating its use for coursing wolves and other game. The breed was also known as the Russian Wolfhound until 1936. Its numbers reportedly dwindled after the Russian Revolution, but fanciers outside Russia helped preserve the breed. The exact timeline of development is not precisely documented, but the breed's association with Russian nobility is well established. The Borzoi's origins are solely in Russia, and its history reflects its purpose as a coursing hound for large game.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
34–48 kilogramAdult weight71–81 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesLongCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Gentleindependentcalmintelligentaffectionate
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
Moderate compared with other breeds
Higher coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
Modelled tendency · medium confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Borzoi-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Research in progress
Editorially reviewed pros and cons will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
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Growth chart
Borzoi puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight34–48 kilogramAdult female weight34–48 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Borzoi?
Borzoi are large dogs. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 34 to 48 kg, and estimated height is 71 to 81 cm. Estimated lifespan is 9 to 14 years. These are modelled estimates, so individual dogs may vary.
What is the Borzoi's temperament like?
Borzoi are described as gentle, independent, calm, intelligent, and affectionate. However, temperament varies by individual. They are not typically high-energy (energy score 3/5) and have moderate trainability (3/5).
How much exercise does a Borzoi need?
Borzoi have a moderate energy level (score 3 out of 5). They likely need regular daily exercise, but specific requirements are not provided. As a sighthound, they may enjoy running in a safe area.
What are the grooming requirements for a Borzoi?
Borzoi have a long coat and a grooming score of 4 out of 5, indicating relatively high grooming needs. They also shed moderately (score 3/5). Regular brushing is likely necessary to maintain coat condition.
Is a Borzoi suitable for apartment living?
Apartment suitability is rated 2 out of 5, suggesting they are not ideal for small spaces. They are large dogs and may need more room to move comfortably.
How does a Borzoi get along with children and other dogs?
Child suitability and dog compatibility are both rated 3 out of 5, indicating average compatibility. Individual temperament varies, so supervision and proper introductions are recommended.
Where does the Borzoi originate from?
The Borzoi originates from Russia. It was developed by Russian aristocracy for coursing wolves and other game. The breed was also known as the Russian Wolfhound until 1936.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.