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Borzoi

The Borzoi is a large Russian sighthound breed developed to hunt wolves and other running game.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Borzoi is a large Russian sighthound breed developed to hunt wolves and other running game. Formerly known as the Russian Wolfhound, it is noted for its long, narrow head, silky coat, and great speed. The breed has long been associated with Russian nobility and is now kept both as a companion animal and show dog.

History

The Borzoi was developed in Russia, likely from crosses involving Arabian Greyhounds and a collie-like Russian sheepdog. It was bred for coursing wolves and other game over open ground and became closely linked with the Russian aristocracy.

Appearance

Borzois are tall, slender dogs with long legs, a narrow head, small ears, and a deep chest. Their coat is usually long and silky and may be flat, wavy, or slightly curled.

Temperament and use

The breed is generally described as calm, gentle, and quiet, though it remains athletic and requires regular exercise. While historically a hunting dog, it is also kept as a companion animal and is valued in dog sports such as lure coursing.

Breed recognition

The Borzoi has been recognized by major kennel organizations, including the American Kennel Club. Its former English name, Russian Wolfhound, was used before the breed name Borzoi became standard.

Key facts

  • The Borzoi is a large hound breed developed in Russia for wolf hunting.
  • It is a sighthound, meaning it hunts by sight and speed rather than scent.
  • The breed was historically associated with Russian nobility and aristocratic hunting expeditions.
  • Borzois are known for their long, narrow heads, deep but narrow chests, and silky coats.
  • The breed can run at about 35–40 mph (56–64 km/h).
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Canadian context

Borzois are present in Canada as companion animals and show dogs, and Canadian readers may encounter them through kennel clubs, breeders, and dog sports such as lure coursing.

Frequently asked questions

What is a Borzoi?
A Borzoi is a large Russian sighthound breed originally developed to hunt wolves and other fast-moving game.
Why is it called a sighthound?
Sighthounds hunt primarily by seeing and chasing prey, relying on speed and vision rather than scent tracking.
What was the Borzoi originally used for?
It was bred for coursing wolves, foxes, hares, and similar running game over open terrain.
How big is a Borzoi?
Adult males are typically 28–32 inches tall, and females 26–32 inches; weights vary by sex and are generally large for the breed.
What is the Borzoi’s lifespan?
Its typical lifespan is about 9–14 years.

References

  1. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/animal/Borzoi
    Supports: Origin in Russia, sighthound classification, historical use for wolf hunting, physical description, lifespan.
  2. American Kennel Club — https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/borzoi/
    Supports: Breed group, speed, temperament, height, historical use and Russian origin.
  3. American Kennel Club — https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/8-fun-facts-about-the-borzoi/
    Supports: Large size, Hound Group, sighthound type, hunting use, association with Russian aristocracy, name meaning.
  4. Royal Canin — https://www.royalcanin.com/au/dogs/breeds/borzoi
    Supports: Russian origin, aristocratic hunting background, sighthound status, breed history, speed.
  5. PDSA — https://www.pdsa.org.uk/pet-help-and-advice/looking-after-your-pet/puppies-dogs/large-dogs/borzoi
    Supports: Common name Russian Wolfhound, large active breed, temperament and exercise needs.