Borzoi

Russian Wolfhound
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a large, elegant sighthound breed originally developed for hunting wolves. They are known for their gentle temperament, loyalty to family, and need for regular exercise.

Origin and Purpose

  • Developed in Russia for hunting wolves and other game
  • Favored by Russian aristocracy for coursing hunts

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female26-30 inches (66-76 cm)60-90 pounds (27-41 kg)
Male28-32 inches (70-82 cm)75-105 pounds (34-48 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • White
  • gold
  • cream
  • red
  • black
  • brindle
  • often with combinations of these
  • can be solid or particolored
Type
  • Silky
  • long
  • dense
  • wavy or curly
Length
  • Long

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate
Grooming
  • Regular brushing
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Long
  • narrow
  • refined
Skull
  • Slightly domed
Ears
  • Small
  • thin
  • set on high
  • carried back or folded
Eyes
  • Dark
  • almond-shaped
  • set slightly obliquely
Nose
  • Black
  • large
Muzzle
  • Long
  • tapering
Teeth
  • Scissors bite
Neck
  • Long
  • arched
  • muscular
Forequarters
  • Straight
  • muscular
Fore Legs
  • Long
  • straight
  • strong
Hindquarters
  • Muscular
  • powerful
Hind Legs
  • Long
  • straight
  • strong
Feet
  • Hare-like
  • arched toes
Tail
  • Long
  • set low
  • carried in a curve
Gait
  • Effortless
  • smooth
  • powerful
  • ground-covering

Temperament

  • Independent
  • gentle
  • loyal
  • sensitive
  • dignified
  • reserved with strangers

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Yes
Good with Children
  • Generally good, but may be reserved
Good with Dogs
  • Usually good with other dogs, especially those they know
  • may chase smaller animals
Good with Cats
  • May have a high prey drive and chase cats
  • can get along with cats if raised together
Openness to Strangers
  • Reserved
Playfulness Level
  • Moderate
Protective Nature
  • Low
Adaptability Level
  • Adaptable to apartment living with sufficient exercise
  • not a good fit for very active homes

Working Roles

  • Coursing
  • lure coursing
  • hunting
  • therapy
  • companionship

Exercise Needs

  • Requires regular exercise, such as long walks or runs
  • needs opportunities to sprint

Health

  • Generally healthy
  • prone to bloat, hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy and other genetic issues

Additional Notes

  • Known for their elegance and speed
  • require consistent and patient training
  • sensitive and may not respond well to harsh training methods

References