What to Know Before Buying a Borzoi Puppy
Quick answer: Before you buy a Borzoi puppy, picture an elegant, gentle giant sighthound, the former Russian Wolfhound, that can hit 35 to 40 mph and lives 9 to 14 years. They’re calm, quiet, almost cat-like indoors, but they’re hardwired to chase anything that runs, so a fenced yard and leashed walks are essential and recall is unreliable. They’re sensitive, independent, and prone to bloat. Buy from a health-testing Borzoi Club of America breeder.
At a Glance
| Group | Hound (AKC, recognized 1891) |
| Origin | Russia |
| Height | Males 28+ in, females 26+ in |
| Weight | Males 75–105 lbs, females 60–85 lbs |
| Lifespan | 9–14 years |
| Coat | Long, silky, wavy with neck frill; weekly brushing |
| Color | Any color or pattern |
| Temperament | Calm, gentle, dignified, affectionate, independent, sometimes aloof |
| Good for | Calm homes with a securely fenced yard and respect for the prey drive |
1. A Sighthound, Built to Chase
The Borzoi was bred by Russian nobility to course wolves across open country at blistering speed, hunting by sight rather than scent. That instinct is intact: a Borzoi will spot a squirrel, cat, or small dog and give chase in a heartbeat, often “deaf” to recall once locked on. This is the single most important thing to plan for. They need a securely fenced area to run and should be walked on leash; an open door or unfenced yard is a genuine danger.
2. Calm and Quiet, Almost Cat-Like Indoors
Despite the athletic frame, Borzoi are mellow housemates who love to lounge and don’t demand constant attention. They’re affectionate with family, gentle, and dignified, sometimes a bit aloof or stoic. They’re not ideal for rough-and-tumble young children, as they dislike roughhousing, and they can be sensitive, so harsh training backfires. Socialize early to prevent timidity.
3. Exercise, Training, and Small Pets
Borzoi need a moderate amount of exercise: a good walk plus the chance to sprint safely. They’re intelligent but independent, so training takes patience and gentle, positive methods rather than repetition drills. Because of the prey drive, households with cats or small pets should socialize the dog young and supervise carefully, and even then the hunting instinct never fully disappears.
4. Grooming and Health, Including Bloat
The long, silky coat needs brushing a few times a week to prevent mats, with heavier shedding seasonally. The breed’s most serious health concern is bloat (GDV): feed smaller meals, use a slow-feeder bowl, and avoid hard exercise around mealtimes. Watch also for heart conditions and bone/joint issues, and note that sighthounds can be sensitive to certain anesthetics, so use a vet familiar with the breed.
5. Finding a Responsible Breeder
Start with the Borzoi Club of America and verify any breeder against the AKC Marketplace. A good breeder shows health clearances, raises well-socialized puppies, and talks frankly about the prey drive and fencing needs. Be wary of anyone breeding purely for the dramatic look.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a Borzoi puppy cost?
Prices vary by breeder and region, so confirm current figures directly with Borzoi Club of America breeders.
Can Borzoi be let off leash?
Rarely safely. As sighthounds with a powerful chase instinct and unreliable recall, they should be exercised on leash or in a securely fenced area.
Are Borzoi good apartment dogs?
Surprisingly often, yes. They’re calm and quiet indoors and love to lounge, but they still need access to a safe space to run and stretch out.
Are Borzoi good with cats and small pets?
It depends on the individual and on early socialization. Their prey drive can make them chase, so careful introductions and supervision are essential.
Read the official AKC breed standard
Sources
American Kennel Club – Borzoi
AKC Official Breed Standard (PDF)
Borzoi Club of America (BCA)
AKC – Bloat in Dogs
AKC Marketplace