The 60-second version of the Borzoi: what they're like, what they need, and whether one would suit your home — written for Australian owners.
Borzoi at a glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Breed group | Hound |
| Weight | 27–48 kg |
| Lifespan | 9–12 years |
| Energy | Low to moderate — sprint, then sofa |
| Coat | Long, silky |
| Grooming | Weekly brush |
| Shedding | Moderate to high |
| Good with kids | Gentle and tolerant; aloof with strangers |
| Puppy price (AU) | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Insurance (AU) | ~$55–$95/month |
Living with a Borzoi in Australia
The Borzoi hunted wolves for Russian tsars, but at home they’re the quietest, most ornamental dogs imaginable — cat-clean, rarely barking, and capable of sleeping eighteen hours a day. Their one non-negotiable is the sprint: a safe, fenced place to hit 60 km/h a few times a week. In Australia they suit calm households with secure yards (sighthound prey drive means off-leash parks are a no), and owners who appreciate beauty over biddability.
Health watch-outs
Lean and generally healthy, with sighthound specifics:
- Bloat (GDV) — deep-chested breed; feeding precautions matter.
- Heart conditions — screening of breeding dogs is good practice.
- Anaesthesia sensitivity — sighthounds metabolise drugs differently; use a sighthound-savvy vet.
Budget at a glance
- Puppy price: typically $2,000–$3,500 from a registered breeder — much lower offers are often scams.
- Insurance: around $55–$95/month — see our pet insurance cost guide for what shapes premiums.
- Surprisingly cheap to feed for their height; grooming is modest.
Is a Borzoi right for you?
Great fit if you… ✅
- Calm households wanting a quiet, graceful companion
- Sighthound lovers with secure space for sprinting
- Owners who prefer independence over obedience
Think twice if… ⚠️
- Prey drive is absolute — no off-leash near roads or wildlife
- Not a dog that aims to please; training is negotiation
Keep exploring
🍖 Best food: See our dog food picks — chosen for Australian conditions and budgets
🛡️ Insurance: What pet insurance costs in Australia — breed-by-breed premium guidance