Choosing to add a furry friend to your growing household is a long-term commitment, and picking a breed that fits your lifestyle presents the key to a happy home. With over 160 American Kennel Club-recognized breeds, that decision can seem overwhelming. We’re here to help you meet the breed that’s right for you. If you’re looking for a quiet, affectionate dog to take on runs, find out everything you need to know about the Borzoi!
- Intelligent
- Shedder
- Short life span
- Athletic
- Quiet
Overview
Often seen as a catlike breed, the Borzoi is a mix between an Arabian Greyhound and a thick-coated Russian breed. Meant to hunt in packs for foxes and wolves in Russia, Americans referred to them as Russian Wolfhounds until recent years. Kind and simple animals, they’re independent dogs that make great house pets.
Breed standards
- AKC group: Hound
- UKC group: Sighthound
- Average lifespan: 7 – 10 years
- Average size: 60 – 105 pounds
- Coat appearance: Long, silky, flat
- Coloration: Golden, black, white, red, brindle, cream
- Hypoallergenic: No
- Possible alterations: Long, narrow head; slightly slanted, dark eyes; small ears close to the head; large, black nose; arched back, straight legs and long, curved tail
- Possible alterations: Coat can be slightly wavy with many color variations, including black markings
Is this breed right for you?
Best for homes with larger yards, this breed is a loyal member of the family. Affectionate to both familiar people and strangers, the Borzoi would make a great pet for someone who has a lot of company. Good with children but not prone to roughhousing, this pet is best suited for families with teens or without children. Likely to hunt and chase smaller animals, this is not a good breed to pair with a cat. Quiet but large, he would do OK with apartment life if exercised regularly.
A dream day in the life of a Borzoi
Waking up slowly, the Borzoi will quietly sneak downstairs for his daily feeding. After checking out the home, he’ll go outside for a run and trail any possible animals in the yard. Once he knows the coast is clear, he’ll be ready for a nap in the sun. When his owner gets home, the Borzoi will be patiently waiting for his daily run. After dinner, he’ll snooze next to his master.
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