Borzoi

• ExerciseModerate

  A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• GroomingBrush a few times a week

  Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Living spaceNeeds space

  Wants plenty of room indoors and out.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment9–14 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Bloat (GDV) · Dilated cardiomyopathy · Progressive retinal atrophy

The Borzoi is the elegant Russian wolfhound of the tsars — a tall, silken-coated sighthound with a famously long, aristocratic profile and a calm, quiet, almost cat-like temperament indoors. Gentle, dignified and independent, it is affectionate with its family in an understated way and often reserved with strangers; it is sensitive and does not respond to harsh handling, needing gentle, patient, positive training instead. It is a sprinter, not a stamina athlete: it needs the chance to run flat-out in a safe enclosed space, then is content to lounge quietly for the rest of the day. Its extremely strong prey drive and speed mean it can never be trusted off-lead near small animals or in open areas. The long silky coat needs brushing a few times a week to prevent mats, more during seasonal moults. Health-wise, buy from a breeder who screens hearts, and be aware of the breed's tendencies: bloat and gastric torsion (a real risk in this deep-chested breed — feed measured meals from a raised bowl and rest after eating), dilated cardiomyopathy, progressive retinal atrophy and hypothyroidism; its low body fat also makes it anaesthesia-sensitive (tell your vet). Give a Borzoi safe running, gentle handling, soft beds and heart monitoring, and this serene, beautiful hound will be a devoted companion for nine to fourteen years.

• How much exercise does a Borzoi need?

  Moderate. A daily walk plus some playtime hits the spot.

• How much grooming does a Borzoi need?

  Brush a few times a week. Brushing several times a week prevents mats.

• Is a Borzoi suited to apartment living?

  Needs space. Wants plenty of room indoors and out.

• Is a Borzoi a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Borzoi live?

  9–14 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Borzoi?

  Keep an eye out for Bloat (GDV), Dilated cardiomyopathy, Progressive retinal atrophy. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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