| Height | 28 inches & up (male), 26 inches & up (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 75-105 pounds (male), 60-85 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 9–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Loyal / Affectionate / Regally Dignified [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | Russia [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 99 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Even though Borzoi are large, they are graceful, athletic animals who make good housedogs. They do need daily exercise, whether in the form of long walks or running in a securely fenced yard. Being sighthounds, they are apt to chase anything that moves, so they should always be in an enclosed area or on a leash. [1]
Grooming
Like any long-coated dog, the Borzoi will shed a bit. In general, a quick brushing every day or two with a pin brush, slicker brush, and/or a comb will remove any loose hair and dirt from the coat. About once a year the Borzoi will shed more heavily for several weeks, and during this shedding season more frequent grooming is needed. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Borzoi are generally healthy dogs,and a responsible breeder will screen breeding stock for health conditions such as elbow and hip dysplasia, osteochondritis dissecans, and progressive retinal atrophy. Like other large and deep-chested dogs, they can experience bloat, a sudden and life-threatening stomach condition. Owners should educate themselves as to what symptoms indicate this is occurring and what to do if so. Sighthounds, including Borzoi, are more sensitive to anesthesia than other breeds. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation, Thyroid Evaluation, Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) DNA SOD1A. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Borzoi in 1891. [1]
- It ranked No. 99 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 89 in 2015. [2]
- The AKC lists Russia as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 4 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Cardiac Exam, Ophthalmologist Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Active owners who can give daily exercise (AKC energy 4/5)
Common questions
How long do Borzois live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 9-14 years.
How big does a Borzoi get?
AKC breed information lists height 28 inches & up (male), 26 inches & up (female) and weight 75-105 pounds (male), 60-85 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Borzoi?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Borzoi, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.