Borzoi

Get to Know Borzois

• Once Reserved for Royalty: For centuries, only the Russian nobility could own Borzoi. Tsars gifted them to visiting dignitaries, and they often appeared in royal portraits, symbolizing power and refinement.
• Born Hunters: The name Borzoi comes from the Russian word borzaya, meaning “swift.” They rely on sight, not scent, to pursue prey, and their long limbs and narrow head were refined for chasing down fast-moving game.
• Silent & Swift: Unlike many hunting breeds, Borzoi hunt in near silence, relying on their speed and vision rather than barking. This quiet grace extends to their demeanor at home—they are peaceful and rarely vocal.
• A Muse: Borzoi have long inspired painters, sculptors, and writers. Their ethereal beauty and noble silhouette made them favorites in 19th-century art and fashion circles, symbolizing elegance and mystique.
• Remarkable Sprinters: Despite their calm, languid appearance, Borzoi can reach speeds of 35–40 miles per hour (56–64 km/h), comparable to a racehorse, thanks to their deep chest, long stride, and aerodynamic build.

Breed History

The Borzoi is an ancient sighthound breed that originated in Russia over 400 years ago. Developed by Russian aristocrats by crossing Arabian Greyhounds with native Russian herding dogs, Borzoi were bred to hunt wolves, hare, and other game across the vast Russian plains. They were prized by nobility for their speed, elegance, and courage, and featured prominently in grand hunting parties known as “wolf coursing.” Following the Russian Revolution, the breed nearly disappeared due to its association with the aristocracy, but a few surviving dogs were exported to Europe and North America, preserving the line. Today, Borzoi are admired for their regal bearing, gentle temperament, and breathtaking grace.

Personality and Behaviour

• Calm & Quiet: Borzoi are serene companions who prefer peaceful environments and rarely bark unnecessarily.
• Affectionate but Reserved: They form deep bonds with their families yet often maintain a dignified aloofness with strangers.
• Sensitive & Graceful: Their gentle temperament makes them wonderful housemates, though they appreciate a calm household and gentle handling.

Care

• Exercise: Moderate daily activity with walks, sprints, or lure coursing, keeping them fit and content. They’re natural sprinters but not endurance dogs.
• Training: Begin early with gentle, reward-based methods. Borzoi are intelligent but can be strong-willed, so patience and consistency are key.
• Grooming: Weekly brushing and occasional baths are sufficient; they shed seasonally and need extra grooming during coat changes. Their coat naturally repels dirt and has minimal odor.