Borzoi
Male: 34-48 kg, Female: 26-41 kg
Males: 75-85 cm, Females: 68-78 cm at the shoulder.
9-14 years
Russia
About the Borzoi
The Borzoi is the quintessential sighthound, characterized by its elegant, flowing lines and exceptional speed. Once the prized hunting companions of the Russian Tsars, these dogs were bred to pursue wolves across vast distances, requiring a unique combination of stamina, courage, and agility. Despite their fierce hunting heritage, they are remarkably serene and dignified companions within the home, often seeking out the softest furniture for long periods of rest. Physically, the Borzoi is a study in functional beauty, featuring a deep chest for lung capacity and a distinctively curved back that facilitates their powerful, 'double-suspension' gallop. Their long, narrow heads and intelligent, almond-shaped eyes give them an air of wisdom and detachment. While they are affectionate with their families, they often maintain a level of independence that sets them apart from more eager-to-please working breeds.
Breed Standard
Key characteristics from the breed standard
In the show ring, the Borzoi is a masterpiece of symmetry and grace, distinguished by its unique 'line of beauty'—a continuous curve from the neck through the back and into the long, low-set tail. Their movement is a defining trait; they must appear to float with an effortless, ground-covering reach and drive that highlights their athletic prowess.
In Australia
The first Borzoi was imported into Australia in 1898, according to Dogs NSW.
Bred For
Originally developed by the Russian nobility for coursing and hunting wolves, foxes, and hares across the open steppes.
Temperament
Quiet, aristocratic, independent, and highly sensitive; they are often described as having a cat-like personality indoors while remaining keen hunters outdoors.
Health Conditions Reported in the Breed
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Exercise Needs
Moderate daily exercise is required, but they specifically need regular opportunities to run at full speed in a large, securely fenced area; typically 40-60 minutes of activity per day.
Grooming Needs
Moderate to high; the long, silky coat requires thorough brushing two to three times a week to prevent matting, especially behind the ears and around the hindquarters.
Living Suitability
While calm indoors, they are not ideal for small apartments unless they have access to large, fenced spaces for daily sprinting. They thrive in homes with large yards or acreage but must always be kept within secure boundaries due to their hunting instincts.
Good with Kids
Generally patient and gentle with older children who understand how to respect a dog's space; their size and sensitivity make them less suitable for households with boisterous toddlers.
Good with Other Pets
Usually peaceful with other large dogs, but their powerful prey drive makes them potentially dangerous to small dogs, cats, or other small household pets unless raised with them from puppyhood under strict supervision.
Trainability
Highly intelligent but independent and easily bored; they respond best to patient, positive reinforcement and may ignore commands if they find the task repetitive or if their hunting instinct is triggered.
Coat & Colours
Long, silky, and wavy or curly; never woolly.. Any color or combination of colors is acceptable under the breed standard.
Exercise needs vary by age, fitness, health, weather and individual temperament. Consult your veterinarian for an exercise plan appropriate for your dog.
Things to Consider
Every breed has its quirks — here's what to know
Borzois are more likely to experience Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat), a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists—owners should be prepared for the costs and care associated with this emergency. They are also prone to sighthound-specific anesthesia sensitivity, meaning vet visits require a practitioner familiar with the breed's unique physiology. While they are exceptionally quiet, their heavy seasonal shedding means a commitment to frequent vacuuming and grooming is necessary to manage the 'tumbleweeds' of silky hair. Their most significant quirk is a powerful prey drive; once a Borzoi spots a moving target, their 'recall' often disappears, so they must be kept on a lead in unenclosed areas. They also possess a 'sighthound lean,' where they will press their long bodies against your legs for affection, which can be surprising given their height. These challenges are simply part of the Borzoi's unique charm, and for the right owner, their quiet devotion and breathtaking beauty far outweigh the grooming and safety considerations.
Feeding Guide for Your Borzoi
Healthy Weight
26-48 kg
Daily Feeding Amount (general starting estimate)
520-1440 grams of fresh food per day, depending on the individual's specific weight and activity level.
Fresh feeding for Borzois should focus on lean, high-quality proteins to maintain their lithe frame. To mitigate the risk of bloat, it is highly recommended to split the daily intake into two or three smaller meals rather than one large one. Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 60-90 minutes before and after eating. An average adult Borzoi (approx. 35kg) requires roughly 700g to 1050g of fresh food daily, representing 2-3% of their body weight.
Feeding quantities are general starting estimates only. Individual needs vary with body condition, weight trends, age, health and activity. Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition — consult a veterinarian for individualised dietary guidance.
Ingredient percentages alone do not guarantee complete and balanced nutrition. Seek veterinary or qualified canine nutrition guidance for individualised dietary advice. Raw feeding, specific proteins or fresh foods should not be presented as preventing, treating or managing breed health conditions without veterinary diagnosis and supervision.
Majestik's Recommended Feeding Approach
Breed Diet Notes
A high-quality, high-protein fresh or raw diet that supports lean muscle maintenance while avoiding excessive carbohydrates and fillers that may contribute to digestive fermentation.
A tailored raw diet using Majestik kangaroo or lean beef is ideal for maintaining the Borzoi's lean physique. The diet should consist of approximately 70% lean muscle meat, 10% edible bone (such as turkey necks), 10% organ meats (liver and kidney), and 10% blended seasonal vegetables for essential phytonutrients. Including fish oil or fresh sardines can support their silky coat. Some owners use smaller divided meals and avoid strenuous activity immediately around feeding. These steps cannot guarantee prevention of gastric dilatation-volvulus. Seek urgent veterinary care if bloat is suspected.
These are general breed-level notes only. The appropriate food and serving amount depend on the individual dog's age, health, body condition, activity and tolerance.
Majestik Recommendation
Majestik BARF meals follow our practical 70/10/10/10 approach: approximately 70% quality meat and protein ingredients, 10% edible bone, 10% vegetables and 10% offal. This gives customers a convenient fresh-food option without needing to source and portion every ingredient themselves.
Our Beef, Lamb and Roo BARF meals provide convenient fresh-food options, with suitable proteins chosen or rotated according to the individual dog.
Suitable for different needs
- Healthy adult: Majestik adult Beef, Lamb or Roo BARF meal.
- Puppy: Majestik Premium Puppy.
- Senior: Majestik Senior Blend.
- Working or highly active dog: Suitable Majestik adult meal with quantity adjusted to workload and body condition.
- Protein trial: One Majestik protein at a time.
Recommended Majestik BARF Meals
This is a practical starting recommendation for healthy dogs. Individual needs vary with age, health, body condition and activity.
Borzoi Feeding Calculator
Personalised raw and cooked feeding recommendations based on your dog's profile
Ideal — Ribs palpable without excess fat. Visible waist. Abdominal tuck present.
Have a question about your Borzoi? Dog Health AI
Why Majestik?
Fresh, raw pet food made with integrity in South Australia
Australian Made
Made in Two Wells, South Australia
Freshly Prepared
Real meat, organs, bone & wholefood ingredients
No Fillers
No cheap fillers or artificial preservatives
Family Owned
Locally owned and operated
Local Delivery
Delivery across Adelaide & selected areas
Secure Checkout
Secure payment via Shopify checkout
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Breed Records & Facts
Average Litter Size
6-7 puppies
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References & Sources
Breed information verified against recognised breed authorities and veterinary evidence.