Requirements
Indoor
Though large and energetic, the Borzoi is happy to lounge while indoors. They'll claim any free furniture, so if this isn't allowed in your home it is better to discourage the behavior in puppyhood—before they've gotten used to the most cushy seats in the house. Borzoi are calm enough to adapt to most living situations, even apartments, if provided regular opportunities to walk, run, and play outdoors. The breed is usually quiet, so they aren't likely to disturb neighbors with barking or howling.
Outdoor
The name 'Borzoi' means swift, and it's no coincidence. This is a speedy dog—and his prey drive is likely to kick in if something interesting runs by. Borzoi need supervised time outdoors, but keep your Borzoi leashed or in a fenced area unless he will respond to your recall every time. A visible barrier is important for this high-prey-drive breed—an underground fence will not contain him. If a Borzoi starts running, he may be oblivious to surrounding dangers like roads. He may also have difficulty finding his way home again. This is not a dog who can live outdoors full-time: he needs companionship and to curl up on a warm bed inside.
Exercise
They may be giants, but they don’t require much exercise. Borzoi enjoy a couple of walks and the opportunity to run around outdoors—about a half hour per day—but are otherwise laid back, easygoing companions indoors. Some Borzoi may need more exercise than others, but don’t allow yours to become a couch potato.
Endurance
One of the main priorities in the development of Borzoi was the ability to participate in wolf hunting and coursing. Stamina and speed are two of the Borzoi's most impressive qualities—but though they can run 35 miles per hour for one mile, they are better suited to sprinting than to endurance running.
Activity distance rating
- Running Miles: Full-grown, well-conditioned Borzoi may be able to run up to five miles, but sprinting is more their style.
- Hiking Miles: A full day hike may be easy for a healthy Borzoi, but they can’t often be trusted off leash. They have a high prey drive and a tendency to run away.
Food
A special diet may be necessary for Borzoi due to the specific dietary needs of a tall, lean dog. Growth formulas for puppies may cause improper growth, leading to cartilage and joint concerns. Consult your breeder or veterinarian for diet advice.
Most Borzoi will need about four to eight cups of high-quality dry food daily, based on the dog's average weight and activity level. This amount should be split between two meals, or can be offered in a food-dispensing puzzle toy. They may suffer from gastric torsion, or bloat. Using raised feeding bowls and limiting activity for an hour after feeding can help prevent this dangerous condition.
Borzoi do not tend to guard their food, but children should never be allowed to touch or remove food while any dog is eating.
Alone Time
As a breed developed to work closely with its people, Borzoi aren’t thrilled at the prospect of spending time alone. They may be able to stay home alone for four to six hours, but may become destructive without enough attention or exercise. Crate training will help keep Borzoi safe while unattended.