Hound Group
Borzoi
Champion Pedigree
Elegant
Swift
Sighthound
Bred by Russian nobility to course wolves across open steppes, the Borzoi is a tall, elegant sighthound with a long, silky coat. Dignified and quiet at home, it retains the explosive speed and prey drive of its wolf-hunting ancestors.
Lifespan
9–14 years.
Did You Know?
The Borzoi was once so closely tied to Russian aristocracy that gifting one was considered a mark of great honor, and the Russian Revolution nearly wiped out the breed’s numbers.
Breed Traits
Size
Males 28 in.+ tall, 75–105 lbs; females 26 in.+ tall, 60–85 lbs.
Energy Level
Moderate at home, a sprinter rather than an endurance athlete — needs a securely fenced area to run.
Coat & Grooming
Long, silky, flat or wavy coat; moderate shedder, regular brushing needed.
Good With Families
Gentle and quiet, generally good with calm households; strong prey drive around small animals.
Registry Record
Also Known As
Russian Wolfhound
Origin
Russia, developed by aristocracy for wolf coursing.
Typical Litter Size
6 to 8 puppies.
Club Recognitions
AKC, FCI, KC (UK), CKC
Disposition
Dignified, independent, and gentle; strong sighthound prey drive means recall off-leash is unreliable around small animals.
Coat Colors
Any color, including white, gold, black, and brindle.
Working Roles
Historically a wolf-coursing hound for Russian nobility; today primarily a companion and lure-coursing competitor.
Health & Wellness
A generally healthy breed, though bloat and anesthesia sensitivity shared among sighthounds are worth understanding.
Notable Borzois
Russian Imperial Heritage
Once bred and kept almost exclusively by Russian nobility and the Tsar’s court.
Registry Champions
A striking, elegant presence in the hound group at conformation shows.
Lure Coursing Champions
A capable competitor in modern lure coursing events.
Related Reading
Borzoi Gifts
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