Is a Borzoi right for you?
Personality traits, family compatibility, and lifestyle match - everything you need to decide.
Is a Borzoi right for you?
Take our 1-minute compatibility quiz based on this breed's traits
Know Before You Commit
Important behavioral traits that potential owners should understand:
The Borzoi possesses a predatory sequence (Eye → Stalk → Chase → Grab → Kill). They are hardwired to chase anything that moves quickly. This makes them a significant risk to cats, small dogs, rabbits, and even wildlife. A Borzoi that lives peacefully with an indoor cat may still kill that same cat if they encounter it running outdoors.
They are not biddable. They do not obey commands for the sake of pleasing you. If they see prey, their recall is virtually non-existent. They require a securely fenced area (minimum 6ft/1.8m) to run; "invisible fences" are useless against their drive.
They are often described as "cat-like." They may not greet you at the door with enthusiasm or want to cuddle constantly. They are affectionate on their own terms.
Family Compatibility
How Borzois typically get along with different family members and pets:
Children (0-5 years)
Borzois may need careful introduction and supervision with young children
Tip: Teach children to be gentle and never disturb the dog while eating or sleeping
Children (5-12 years)
Can be good with older children who understand how to interact with dogs
Tip: A great age to involve kids in feeding, grooming and training
Teenagers
Borzois typically do well with teenagers who can help with exercise and care
Tip: Teens can take on walking and training responsibilities
Other dogs
Most Borzois can live happily with other dogs when properly introduced
Tip: Gradual introductions on neutral territory work best
Cats
Can learn to live with cats, especially if raised together
Tip: Early socialization with cats increases success
Small pets (rabbits, hamsters)
Caution advised - most dogs have some prey instinct toward small animals
Tip: Always keep small pets securely housed when the dog is around
Living Situation Compatibility
Apartment
Borzois may find apartment living challenging
- Daily walks are essential
- Generally quiet indoors
- Mental stimulation is important
House with yard
An ideal setup for most Borzois - space to play and explore
- Secure fencing required
- Supervised outdoor time recommended
- Still needs walks for enrichment
Rural/farm
Borzois enjoy rural settings
- Good recall training is essential
- Watch out for wildlife
- Plenty of room to exercise
First-time owner
Borzois may be better suited to experienced owners
- Consider professional training
- Research the breed thoroughly
- Be prepared for challenges
Work from home
Borzois love having their people around all day
- Set boundaries for work time
- Schedule regular play breaks
- Create a comfortable space for them
Away 8+ hours
Borzois can handle time alone with the right setup
- Gradual training to be alone
- Enrichment toys
- Morning exercise before leaving
Training Your Borzoi
Independent thinker
Intelligent but may have their own agenda - not ideal for novice owners
Training Tips
- Set clear, consistent rules early
- Make training fun and rewarding
- Consider professional help
- Be very patient and consistent
Common Challenges
- May ignore commands if uninterested
- Needs an experienced handler
- Needs clear boundaries
Pro tip: Consider professional training classes, especially for first-time Borzoi owners. Group classes also provide valuable socialization.
Exercise Needs
Needs 60-80 minutes of daily exercise
Recommended Activities:
- Daily walks (vary routes for mental stimulation)
- Fetch and interactive play
- Puzzle toys and training sessions
Mental Stimulation
Like most dogs, Borzois need mental challenges to stay happy and avoid boredom-related behavior.
Ideas:
- Puzzle feeders and treat-dispensing toys
- Short training sessions (10-15 min)
- Nose work and scent games
- New environments and experiences