Basic Information
The name "Borzoi" comes from the Russian language. With a slender build and lively temperament, the Borzoi was once used by Russian emperors and nobles before the revolution for hunting wolves, hence its alternate name: Russian Wolfhound. These dogs are naturally agile and intense in movement, and require proper training in various environments.
Temperament Traits:
Generally suitable for children and city living, well-adapted to both hot and cold climates. They need frequent grooming and a high amount of physical exercise.
Original and Current Purpose:
●Era of Origin: Middle Ages
●Original Use: Wolf hunting
●Current Use: Companion dog
Breed Origins:
The Borzoi is a well-known sighthound, closely related to breeds like the Taigan, Tazy, South Russian Steppe Hound, and Chortai. Its physique, speed, power, and coordination make it an exceptional wolf hunter. Wolf hunting was once a favorite pastime among Russian nobility. Borzois are faster than wolves and usually hunt in pairs, aiming for the wolf's throat to bring it down.
Over the past century, the Borzoi has been bred more as a companion dog outside of Russia. It has become a gentle, friendly breed that gets along well with people of all ages, having lost its desire to hunt.
History and Development of the Borzoi
The exact origins of the Borzoi are unclear, but it is recognized as an ancient sighthound. It is believed that Mongol invaders brought similar dogs to Russia, which then interbred with local hunting breeds. Over time, they adapted to Russia’s harsh climates and used their exceptional vision to hunt, evolving into what we now know as the Borzoi.
Due to its elegance and beauty, the breed was once exclusively kept by Russian nobility, often given as royal gifts. Hunting with Borzois became a symbol of aristocratic status in Russia. Even famed writer Leo Tolstoy was a known admirer. The breed eventually became recognized as Russia’s national dog due to its popularity among royals and the public alike.
In 1842, the Russian royal family gifted a Borzoi to Princess Alexandra of England, marking the first time the breed left Russia. It was later exhibited at the first Crufts Dog Show in 1891. However, during Europe’s mid-19th century conflicts, many Borzois were used in crossbreeding experiments, and only a few pure lines survived, prompting preservation efforts.
In 1889, William Wade brought a Borzoi to America, although it was from England, not Russia. Later, American C. Stedman Hanks acquired a purebred Borzoi from Russia, establishing the breed’s presence in the U.S.
Today’s Borzoi has retained the grace and elegance of its ancestors. Though no longer hunting in the fields of Tsarist Russia, the breed continues to charm owners with its aristocratic demeanor and beauty.
Temperament and Personality
The Borzoi is a quiet, gentle companion with a tall, slender build and silky, colorful coat. It is graceful and calm, with minimal demands (once mature), polite around people, and rarely barks. While playful and lively outdoors, it becomes tranquil and composed indoors—sometimes acting like a clown, other times like royalty.
Borzois can be aloof with strangers but are deeply affectionate with their owners. Despite their calm demeanor, their hunting instincts should not be underestimated. Once triggered, it can be difficult to control them, so supervision is crucial, especially around small animals.
They enjoy the outdoors and prefer cooler temperatures. Their thick double coat enables them to tolerate extreme cold, but they must be kept cool in summer to avoid heat stress. While generally stable and affectionate, Borzois can be stubborn and reserved, requiring careful handling during training and care.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Borzois are not very patient with children and may be unfriendly or indifferent toward strangers. They can be aggressive toward other dogs and need a firm yet gentle owner for training. They dislike being left alone and must have sufficient exercise to release their energy. Always use a leash when walking them to prevent chasing small animals.
Feeding Guidelines
Proper skeletal development is crucial for this highly active breed. Calcium supplements are often needed to compensate for losses during exercise.
Protein is essential, but not all sources are equally digestible. Overfeeding plant-based proteins can cause issues like bloating or diarrhea. Avoid giving too many indigestible protein sources.
Training the Borzoi requires balance. While patience is needed, discipline is equally important. Owners should be firm when necessary, but also gentle—knowing when and how to apply each approach is key to success.
