Borzoi

The Borzoi is a large Russian sighthound — males stand at least 28 inches at the shoulder and typically weigh 75 to 105 pounds, females noticeably less — built on the ancient greyhound template under a long silky coat. Bred to course and pin wolves across open country at 35-40 mph, the Borzoi is the rare large dog that is calm and almost catlike indoors yet a hardwired, explosive predator the instant something runs. Understanding that split is the whole decision: a Borzoi is a quiet, dignified, low-demand housemate that is also unreliable off-leash for life. The breed does not chase on command and does not stop on command — it sees movement and is simply gone, often before an owner reacts. Temperament is affectionate but reserved and independent. Borzoi bond gently to their people, are sensitive to harsh handling, and are too dignified to enjoy roughhousing or repetitive obedience drilling. They are quiet, clean, and undemanding in the house, which makes them deceptively easy — until the front door opens or a cat bolts. They are generally gentle with respectful children and tolerant of other dogs, but small fast pets can trigger predatory pursuit. The coat is long, silky, and seasonally heavy-shedding, requiring routine brushing rather than professional grooming. The build — deep narrow chest, lean low-body-fat frame — drives the breed's most important medical realities: high bloat risk and genuine sighthound anesthesia sensitivity that every owner must flag to any vet. Who the Borzoi is right for: an owner with secure fencing, an on-leash or sighthound-sport lifestyle, patience for an independent dog, and a vet briefed on sighthound anesthesia. Who it is wrong for: anyone wanting an off-leash, obedient, or rough-and-tumble dog, or a household with free-roaming small pets.