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Borzoi History

The Borzoi ( also known as the Russian Wolfhound) is a sighthound breed that originated in Russia and was popular with the Tsars before the 1917 revolution. For centuries, Borzoi could not be purchased but only given as gifts from the Tsar. Borzoi breeding was taken very seriously and selection for breeding stock took place during wolf hunting trials. Only the quickest and most intelligent hunting dogs went on to produce progeny. During the 1917 revolution, many Borzoi were destroyed by the revolutionaries since the breed had become a symbol of the Tsars. In the 1940's a Soviet soldier named Esmont was concerned that the distinct types of Borzoi were in danger of degenerating without a controlled system of breeding. He convinced the Soviet government that borzoi were a valuable asset to the hunters who supported the fur industry and henceforth, their breeding was officially regulated. The Borzoi was officially recognized as a breed by the AKC in 1891.

Borzoi Temperament

Borzoi are quiet, reserved,well mannered dogs that are well suited to life inside the home despite their size. As adults, they turn into very large couch potatos. They do not bark often, so the tend to make poor watch dogs. Borzoi do make good family pets, but tend to do better with older children. Borzoi can also be suspicious or shy around strangers, so early socialization is a must. This breed can do well with cats, provided that they are raised with them, but since they are sighthounds, they will chase anything that moves when they are off leash. According to Dr. Stanley Coren, this dog has a poor ranking compared to other dogs for learning obedience training, so constant repetition and patienceis a must when training. Since Borzoi are bred to run and chase they need a large fenced in yard and must be kept on a leash when going for a walk.

Borzoi Appearance

These dogs are a tall graceful looking dog with a slim, wedge shaped head. They usually weigh between 75 to 100 pounds and stand 26 to 33 inches at the withers. A a general description, they look like a long-haired Greyhound. They can come in a variety of colours and have a medium length.

Borzoi Grooming

Borzoi need a good brushing twice a week. They are heavy seasonal shedders and need more grooming in the spring and fall when they are losing or growing in their coats.

Borzoi Life Expectancy and Health Problems

Borzoi are a generally a robust breed and the biggest problems are Hip and Elbow Displaysia. Since this is a deep chested breed, Bloat is a big problem. Bloat is when the stomach twists on itself and the intestinal gasses are trapped inside. This is a fatal condition if not treated quickly by a vet. The typical lifespan of this breed is 10 to 13 years.

Famous Borzoi

Tolstoy featured Borzoi in his book War and Peace, it was said that this was his favorite breed of dog. Boris was a dog in the Lady and the Tramp cartoon

Borzoi Pros and Cons

This simplified list may help you decide if a Borzoi might be a good fit for your lifestyle

Do You Want

• a tall, elegant looking dog?
• a dog that doesn't bark much?
• a dog that is well mannered and reserved?
• a dog that is graceful and atheletic?

Do You NOT Want

• a dog that is specifically bred to chase anything that moves?
• a dog that does not make a good watchdog?
• a dog that is difficult to train?
• a dog that can be suspicious towards strangers?

Useful Borzoi Links

The Borzoi Club of America

The Borzoi Club of Canada