| AKC Group: | Hound |
| A.K.A.: | Russian Wolfhound |
| Functions: | Competition, Therapy, Racing |
| Year of Origin: | 1600s |
| Country of Origin: | Russia |
| Life Span (yr): | 10 - 12 |
| Colors: | Black, Brindle, Cream, Gold, Silver, Red, Fawn, Sable, Bicolored, Tricolored |
| Height (Inch): | 26 - 32 |
| Weight (lb): | 75 - 110 |
| Size: | Large |
| Hair Length: | Long |
| Energy: |  |
| Playfulness: | |
| Ease of Training: |  |
| Exercise Needed: | |
| Self Protection: | |
| Grooming: | |
| Shedding: | |
| Watch Dog: | |
| Living Area: | |
Appearance:
The unique appearance of the Borzoi including his large, black, Romanesque nose distinguishes him from other dogs. His jaw is very long and also very strong. His ears are quite small and set nicely on his neck when he is not alerted to something. He has dark eyes that show his intelligence. His tail is long, and in good proportion to the rest of his features. He carries it low and it curves elegantly. The coat of the Borzoi feels like silk and it can be straight or haves waves. In fact, the fur around his neck is even curly, especially in comparison to the rest of his body.
Temperament:
Kind, sweet, and gentle, the Borzoi strives to stay out of trouble. He knows how to mind his manners and does not even bark unless alarmed. He actually has a temperament similar to a cat in that he is independent and does not demand attention from his owners. However, he is affectionate towards his family; he waits for his owner to extend his affection to him – he does not push for it himself. He is faithful to his family and obeys their commands. He will get along well with other dogs but must be watched if he is with other small animals, such as rabbits or guinea pigs. He must also be watched if he is with children so that they do not injure him.
Health:
The Borzoi is a relatively rare breed and is not in high demand. Consequently, he is has avoided many of the health problem that some of the other dogs face since they are over-bred. He is prone to bone cancer or osteosarcoma. Heart conditions are also seen as he ages; however, they can be reduced if he receives the proper exercise and a high quality diet. As with most large dogs, he can suffer from bloat and unfortunately gastric torsion is also a probability. If he is fed multiple smaller meals throughout the day, it can lessen the chance that bloat will occur. The Borzoi has a sensitivity to some kinds of anesthesia, which can make surgery difficult.
Maintenance:
The Borzoi’s long silk-like coat is simple to groom. He should be brushed on a regular basis with a brush that has firm bristles. When he needs to be shampooed, a dry shampoo will usually work just fine. If the fur between his pads grows long, it should be trimmed to prevent matting. It will also allow him to walk in comfort without fur slowing him down. Because of the presence of heart disease, it is important to take the Borzoi on a walk every day. If possible, he should be let off of his leash to run free, a dog park or a large fenced in yard is a great option.