Breeding Borzoi

Complete Guide for Responsible Breeders

Breeding Borzoi—the elegant Russian sighthounds once known as Russian Wolfhounds—requires deep understanding of bloat prevention, degenerative myelopathy testing, and the unique reproductive challenges of large, deep-chested coursing dogs. This comprehensive guide covers health testing priorities, whelping protocols for giant breeds, and the economics of breeding one of the hound group's most refined sighthounds.

Breed Overview

The Borzoi originated in 16th-century Russia by crossing Saluki and European sighthounds with thick-coated Russian breeds, creating an elegant coursing dog capable of pursuing wolves and other game across open terrain. Originally known as Russian Wolfhounds until the breed name was officially changed to Borzoi in 1936, these aristocratic sighthounds were bred by Russian nobility for their unique combination of speed, endurance, and the ability to function in harsh winter climates. The breed was nearly extinct in Russia following the Russian Revolution, but thrived in the West and eventually provided breeding stock that revitalized the breed in its homeland.

Recognized by the AKC in 1891, the Borzoi is classified in the Hound Group and currently ranks 101st in AKC popularity—a stable position that reflects the breed's appeal to dedicated fanciers who appreciate the Borzoi's dignified temperament and striking appearance. The national parent club, the Borzoi Club of America, provides extensive breeder education and maintains the CHIC health testing database specific to the breed's unique needs.

Unlike the more compact Basenji or the scent-driven Beagle, the Borzoi is built for visual coursing at high speeds, which creates distinct breeding considerations around cardiac health, bloat prevention, and sighthound-specific anesthesia sensitivity.

Breed Standard Summary for Breeders

The Borzoi is characterized by its long, narrow head and a body that is slightly longer than it is tall, with proportions and flowing silhouette that give the breed its unmistakable elegance. Built for endurance and speed, the Borzoi exhibits a unique combination of grace and power, with a deep chest and flexible back that allow for the double-suspension gallop essential to sighthound coursing.

Size specifications:

Males: 28-32 inches tall, 75-105 lbs

Females: 26-30 inches tall, 60-85 lbs

The breed has NO disqualifications in the standard, but breeders must select against serious faults that compromise breed type and function:

• Light or round eyes (correct Borzoi expression requires dark, almond-shaped eyes)
• Shoulder blades not well laid back (compromises galloping efficiency)
• Short or steep croup (affects rear drive and topline flow)
• Straight stifles (reduces rear angulation needed for coursing)
• Coarse, curly, or woolly coat texture (correct texture is silky)
• Any suggestion of coarseness or lack of refinement (the hallmark of breed type)

Key breeding priorities:

• Correct sighthound structure with deep chest for heart/lung capacity and flexible topline for the double-suspension gallop
• Long, narrow head with refined expression and dark eyes
• Proper angulation fore and aft for efficient, ground-covering movement
• Silky coat texture—flat, wavy, or slightly curly but never harsh or woolly
• Moderate bone with substance appropriate to size (avoid both refined to the point of fragility and heavy, coarse structure)
• Graceful, effortless movement with reach and drive

Reproductive Profile

Borzoi average 6 puppies per litter, with a typical range of 1 to 11 puppies. Single-puppy litters are relatively common in the breed (occurring in approximately 8% of litters), and breeders should be prepared for the possibility of an oversized singleton requiring delivery assistance. Litters of 9+ puppies, while less common, can result in uterine inertia due to the sheer size of the litter.

The C-section rate is approximately 8%, notably lower than many other giant breeds despite the Borzoi's size. Natural whelping is the norm, aided by the breed's long, narrow pelvic structure that is generally well-suited to natural delivery. However, the deep-chested conformation can make late-term pregnancy uncomfortable for the dam, and the large size variation within litters can occasionally complicate natural delivery.

Fertility challenges specific to Borzoi:

• Single-puppy litters occur more frequently than in many other large breeds
• Deep-chested conformation may cause discomfort in late pregnancy, potentially affecting appetite and mobility
• Large size variation within litters can complicate natural delivery (largest puppies may require assistance)

Natural breeding is preferred and typical for the breed, as Borzoi generally exhibit excellent natural mating behavior. Fresh or chilled AI is used when distance separates stud and dam. Frozen AI is less common but suitable when necessary, particularly for international breedings or when preserving genetics from deceased or retired studs.

Breeding Age and Timeline

First heat: Borzoi females typically experience their first heat at 18-24 months, later than many smaller breeds. This delayed maturity is typical of giant breeds.

Recommended first breeding age:

Females: 2-3 years (second or third heat). Breeders should wait until females have completed all required health testing, which cannot be done until 24 months of age for OFA cardiac evaluations.

Males: 2+ years with proven health testing. Males should demonstrate structural maturity and have completed all CHIC requirements before being used at stud.

OFA minimum testing age: 24 months for cardiac evaluation (echocardiogram), which is a CHIC requirement and cannot be performed earlier.

Complete breeding timeline:

1. 18-20 months: Baseline thyroid panel and eye exam (CAER)
2. 24 months: Cardiac echocardiogram (OFA requirement), DM DNA test (can be done at any age but typically done with other testing)
3. 24-36 months: First breeding after all health clearances are complete
4. Annual: Eye exams must be repeated annually to maintain CHIC status
5. Retirement: 6-8 years recommended, with maximum 4 litters per female

This timeline ensures structural and reproductive maturity before breeding while allowing adequate recovery time between litters.

Required Health Testing

The Borzoi Club of America's CHIC requirements reflect the breed's most critical health concerns. All tests below are mandatory for CHIC certification:

Eye Examination (CAER): Screens for hereditary eye diseases including multifocal retinopathy (12% prevalence in the breed), progressive retinal atrophy, and cataracts. Estimated cost: $35. Frequency: Annual (must be repeated yearly to maintain CHIC status).

Cardiac Evaluation (Echocardiogram): Screens for dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM), which affects approximately 8% of Borzoi, and other structural heart defects. This is a comprehensive ultrasound evaluation of heart structure and function. Estimated cost: $150. Frequency: One-time (though breeders may choose to repeat in breeding dogs over age 5).

Thyroid Panel (T3, T4, TSH, TgAA): Screens for hypothyroidism and autoimmune thyroiditis, which are moderately common in the breed (approximately 10% prevalence). A full panel including thyroglobulin autoantibodies (TgAA) is required. Estimated cost: $150. Frequency: One-time at 24+ months.

Degenerative Myelopathy DNA Test: Screens for the SOD1 gene mutation that causes degenerative myelopathy (DM), a progressive neurological disease affecting approximately 12% of Borzoi. This autosomal recessive condition can be completely eliminated through DNA testing and strategic breeding. Estimated cost: $120. Frequency: One-time (DNA does not change).

Total estimated CHIC testing cost per dog: $455 for initial testing, plus $35 annually for eye exam recertification.

Additional recommended tests beyond CHIC minimum:

• Hip Evaluation (OFA or PennHIP): Screens for hip dysplasia. While not a CHIC requirement, responsible breeders often include this test. Estimated cost: $50.
• Holter Monitor (24-hour cardiac screening): Screens for arrhythmias and early signs of cardiac disease not visible on echocardiogram. Recommended for breeding dogs over age 4-5. Estimated cost: $200.

All testing should be registered with the OFA to contribute to the breed's public health database. CHIC certification requires that all four mandatory tests are completed and results published (results can be normal, borderline, or abnormal—publication is what matters for CHIC, though only breeding dogs with normal results is recommended).

Hereditary Health Conditions

Understanding the Borzoi's hereditary health landscape is essential for making informed breeding decisions. The breed faces several significant conditions, with bloat/GDV representing the single greatest health threat.

Bloat (Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus): Prevalence: 15% (common). Inheritance: Polygenic with environmental factors; deep-chested conformation predisposes. DNA test available: No. Bloat is the #1 killer of Borzoi. The stomach dilates with gas and may twist (volvulus), cutting off blood supply. Clinical signs include sudden abdominal distension, unproductive retching, excessive drooling, restlessness, pacing, and labored breathing. This is a life-threatening emergency requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Age of onset: Can occur at any age but most common in middle-aged to older adults (4-8 years). Breeding implications: While there is no DNA test, selecting against anxious or food-aggressive temperaments and educating puppy buyers about bloat prevention (elevated feeders are controversial, feeding multiple small meals, avoiding exercise immediately after eating, prophylactic gastropexy) can reduce risk.

Degenerative Myelopathy (DM): Prevalence: 12% (moderate). Inheritance: Autosomal recessive (SOD1 gene mutation). DNA test available: Yes. DM causes progressive hind limb weakness and ataxia, beginning with dragging rear toes and loss of coordination, eventually leading to paralysis. The condition is non-painful but debilitating. Age of onset: 8-14 years. Breeding implications: This is the most manageable major health condition in Borzoi because DNA testing allows carriers to be identified. Two carriers should never be bred together (produces 25% affected puppies). Carrier-to-clear breedings are acceptable and help preserve genetic diversity (produces 50% carriers, 50% clear, 0% affected). Clear-to-clear breedings produce 100% clear puppies.

Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM): Prevalence: 8% (moderate). Inheritance: Suspected polygenic/multifactorial inheritance. DNA test available: No. The heart muscle weakens and enlarges, reducing pumping efficiency. Clinical signs include exercise intolerance, lethargy, coughing, difficulty breathing, and fainting. Age of onset: 4-10 years. Breeding implications: Cardiac echocardiogram screening of all breeding stock is essential. Holter monitoring (24-hour ECG) is recommended for dogs over age 5 to detect arrhythmias before structural changes are visible. Avoid breeding dogs with abnormal cardiac findings or those from families with high DCM incidence.

Hypothyroidism: Prevalence: 10% (moderate). Inheritance: Polygenic with possible autoimmune component. DNA test available: No. Clinical signs include weight gain, lethargy, coat changes (dryness, brittleness, hair loss), skin issues, and a characteristic "tragic" facial expression. This is easily managed with daily thyroid hormone replacement medication. Age of onset: 2-6 years. Breeding implications: Full thyroid panel including TgAA (thyroglobulin autoantibodies) is required for CHIC. Avoid breeding dogs with autoimmune thyroiditis (positive TgAA).

Multifocal Retinopathy: Prevalence: 12%. Inheritance: Suspected heritable basis, mode unknown. DNA test available: No. This eye condition presents as focal peripheral tapetal lesions visible on ophthalmologic exam. Unlike progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), multifocal retinopathy is late-onset, slowly progressive, and typically does not lead to complete blindness. Age of onset: 6 months to 7 years (most commonly 6-8 years). Breeding implications: Annual CAER eye exams are mandatory for CHIC certification. Breeders should be aware that late onset means dogs may have been bred before the condition manifests.

Color and Coat Genetics

The Borzoi standard is refreshingly simple when it comes to color: any color or combination of colors is acceptable. There are no disqualifying colors in the breed. This openness to color variation reflects the breed's Russian heritage, where function was prioritized over color uniformity.

Accepted colors include: White, black, tan, red, sable, brindle, grizzle, cream, and any combination thereof. Solid colors, parti-colors, and tricolors all appear in the breed. Irish markings (white blaze, collar, legs, and tail tip) are common.

Relevant genetic loci:

• A (Agouti): Controls distribution of black and red pigment (sable, tan points, etc.)
• B (Brown/Liver): Rare in Borzoi but technically possible (produces brown instead of black pigment)
• D (Dilution): Produces blue (dilute black) and fawn/cream (dilute red)
• E (Extension): Controls expression of black pigment
• K (Dominant Black): Produces solid black dogs when present
• S (Spotting): Controls white markings and parti-color patterns

Health-linked color considerations: Dilute colors (blue, fawn) may be associated with coat texture changes, though color dilution alopecia is rare in the breed. There are no color-linked deafness or blindness concerns in Borzoi, unlike in some other breeds with extensive white (the breed does not carry merle or piebald spotting genes associated with those issues).

Complexity tier: Low. Because all colors are acceptable and there are no mandatory color-related health tests, color genetics in Borzoi is straightforward. Breeders can focus on structure, movement, and health rather than complex color inheritance rules.

Breeding color predictions: Most common pairings are relatively predictable (solid to solid typically produces solid or minimal white, parti-color to parti-color increases likelihood of extensive white), but the multiple loci involved mean that color surprises can occur. Color testing is available but not commonly used in Borzoi, as all results are acceptable.

Selecting Breeding Stock

Selecting superior Borzoi breeding stock requires evaluating conformation, health, temperament, and genetic diversity. The breed's hallmark is refined elegance combined with functional coursing structure.

Conformation priorities from the standard:

• Correct sighthound proportions: Body slightly longer than tall with deep chest for heart and lung capacity (depth should reach to the elbow)
• Long, narrow head with refined expression: Proper stop (not pronounced), dark almond-shaped eyes (light or round eyes are serious faults), well-filled foreface
• Well-laid-back shoulders and good rear angulation: Essential for efficient galloping movement and proper reach and drive
• Silky coat texture: Harsh, woolly, or excessively curly coats are incorrect and should be selected against
• Moderate, refined bone structure: Bone should be substantial enough for the dog's size without coarseness or heaviness
• Graceful topline with arched loin and gently sloping croup: Short or steep croups are serious faults

Common structural faults to select against:

• Round or light-colored eyes (compromises correct Borzoi expression)
• Short or steep croup (affects rear drive and silhouette)
• Insufficient depth of chest (compromises stamina and heart/lung capacity)
• Straight stifles or upright shoulders (reduces efficiency of movement)
• Coarse, woolly, or harsh coat texture (incorrect breed type)
• Heavy, unrefined bone structure (detracts from elegance and increases structural stress)

Temperament evaluation: Borzoi should be calm, agreeable, and dignified. The breed characteristically exhibits appropriate reserve with strangers without shyness or aggression. Evaluate potential breeding stock for:

• Confidence without hyperactivity: Borzoi should be poised and self-assured but not overly excitable
• Sociability with other sighthounds: The breed is generally sociable with other Borzoi and sighthounds; extreme dog aggression is uncharacteristic
• Stable reaction to novel stimuli: Avoid breeding dogs with extreme shyness, fear-based aggression, or panic responses
• Appropriate prey drive: All Borzoi retain sighthound instincts, but breeding dogs should demonstrate good recall and handler focus

Coefficient of Inbreeding (COI) targets: The average COI in Borzoi is approximately 8% (5-generation COI). Responsible breeders target COI under 12.5% to maintain genetic diversity while still allowing linebreeding to consolidate desirable traits. Use the Borzoi Club of America pedigree database or online COI calculators to evaluate prospective pairings.

Stud selection criteria:

• All CHIC health clearances completed and published (cardiac, eyes, thyroid, DM DNA)
• Clear or carrier (not affected) for degenerative myelopathy
• Proven conformation quality (preferably with AKC championship or coursing titles)
• Complementary structure to the female (if she is slightly light-boned, select a male with moderate bone; if she has adequate but not excessive angulation, select a male with excellent angulation)
• Temperament that complements or improves the female's temperament
• Pedigree that does not produce excessive inbreeding (target COI under 12.5%)

Stud fee range: $800-$1,500 depending on the stud's show record, health testing, and proven production of quality offspring.

Show vs. breeding quality distinctions: Not all Borzoi of breeding quality are competitive in the show ring, and not all show-quality Borzoi should be bred. Breeding quality requires: all CHIC health clearances, correct structure and temperament, and freedom from serious faults. Show quality requires those attributes PLUS exceptional breed type, balance, and presence.

Whelping and Neonatal Care

Natural whelping is recommended and typical for Borzoi. The breed's C-section rate of 8% is remarkably low for a giant breed, reflecting the Borzoi's long, narrow pelvic structure that generally accommodates natural delivery well.

Breed-specific whelping complications:

• Deep chest conformation: Makes late pregnancy physically uncomfortable. Dams may have reduced appetite and mobility in the final 1-2 weeks. Provide multiple small meals and easy access to whelping area.
• Single-puppy litters: Occur in approximately 8% of Borzoi litters and may result in oversized puppies requiring delivery assistance (gentle traction, repositioning). Monitor closely and have veterinary support on standby.
• Large litters (9+ puppies): Can cause uterine inertia due to over-distension of the uterus. Be prepared for potential oxytocin support or emergency C-section if labor stalls.
• Long, narrow pelvic structure: Generally well-suited to natural whelping but requires monitoring to ensure puppies are positioned correctly (not sideways or breech without progression).

Expected birth weights:

Males: 12-16 oz (average 14 oz)

Females: 10-14 oz (average 12 oz)

Borzoi puppies are relatively large at birth due to the breed's giant size, but the long, narrow body type generally facilitates delivery.

Daily weight gain target: 10-15% of birth weight daily in the first 2 weeks. A 14 oz male puppy should gain approximately 1.4-2.1 oz per day, reaching approximately 3.5 lbs by 2 weeks of age.

Fading puppy risk factors: Large litters may result in smaller, weaker puppies who struggle to compete for nursing. Supplemental feeding (tube or bottle) may be necessary for smallest puppies in large litters. Monitor for adequate colostrum intake in the first 12-24 hours.

Dewclaw/tail/ear practices: Dewclaw removal: No. Tail docking: No. Ear cropping: No. Borzoi are shown naturally with all dewclaws intact, full natural tail, and natural ears. Some breeders remove front dewclaws for neatness, but this is not standard practice.

Critical whelping setup: Provide a whelping box at least 4x5 feet for a Borzoi dam, with low rails (pig rails) to prevent accidental crushing of puppies. The deep-chested dam needs room to stretch out comfortably. Temperature control is critical—maintain 85-90°F for newborns in the first week, gradually reducing to 75-80°F by week 3.

Puppy Development Milestones

Borzoi puppies grow rapidly in the first 12 weeks and continue growing until 14-18 months of age, when they reach adult size. The growth curve below shows average weights for males and females from birth through 12 weeks.

Weekly milestones (birth through 8 weeks):

Week 0 (birth): Eyes and ears closed. Puppies rely entirely on warmth, dam, and gravity to find nipples. Males average 14 oz, females average 12 oz.

Week 1: Puppies should double birth weight. Eyes remain closed. Neonatal reflexes (rooting, sucking) are strong.

Week 2: Eyes begin to open (typically days 10-14). Ears open shortly after. Puppies begin to hear and see blurry shapes. Weight approximately 3-3.5 lbs (males) and 2.5-3 lbs (females).

Week 3: Socialization window begins. Puppies begin to walk (wobbly), explore, and interact with littermates. Begin gentle handling. Introduce solid food (gruel) toward end of week. First deworming.

Week 4: Weaning begins. Offer softened puppy food 3-4 times daily. Dam begins to limit nursing sessions. Puppies begin play behavior (pouncing, mouthing). Males approximately 9 lbs, females approximately 7.5 lbs.

Week 5: Weaning accelerates. Puppies should be eating solid food reliably. Fear period may begin (avoid traumatic experiences). Males approximately 12.5 lbs, females approximately 10.5 lbs.

Week 6: Weaning complete or nearly complete. Puppies fully mobile and playful. Begin crate training and socialization to various surfaces, sounds, and people. Males approximately 16 lbs, females approximately 13.5 lbs.

Week 7: First puppy evaluations for structure (stack, gait, proportion). Vet check, first vaccinations. Continue intensive socialization. Males approximately 20 lbs, females approximately 17 lbs.

Week 8: Go-home age for most pet puppies. Puppies should be confident, playful, and well-socialized. Males approximately 24.5 lbs, females approximately 21 lbs.

Week 10-12: Show-prospect puppies may stay with breeder for additional evaluation and socialization.

Socialization window: 3-14 weeks is the critical socialization period for Borzoi puppies. Continue intensive socialization through 16 weeks. Expose puppies to:

• Various surfaces (grass, gravel, tile, carpet, wood)
• Household sounds (vacuum, doorbell, TV, dishwasher)
• Gentle handling by multiple people (men, women, children)
• Other vaccinated, healthy dogs
• Car rides
• Crate training

Fear periods: The first fear period typically occurs around 5-6 weeks. A second fear period may occur around 6-9 months. Avoid traumatic experiences during these times, but continue gentle, positive socialization.

Structural evaluation timing: Initial evaluation at 7-8 weeks (proportion, angulation, head type, expression, movement). Re-evaluate at 10-12 weeks for show prospects. Final evaluation at 6-9 months as the puppy matures (Borzoi go through significant growth spurts and awkward stages before developing mature balance).

Adult size achievement: Borzoi reach adult height around 12-14 months but continue to fill out (chest depth, muscle development) until 18-24 months. Do not over-exercise or jump young Borzoi—their rapid growth makes them vulnerable to growth plate injuries.

Breeding Economics

Breeding Borzoi is a substantial financial investment. Below is a realistic breakdown of costs and revenue for an average litter of 6 puppies with natural whelping.

Costs per litter:

Health testing (dam): $455 (CHIC requirements: cardiac echo, eyes, thyroid, DM DNA). This is a one-time expense amortized across the dam's breeding career (maximum 4 litters = approximately $114 per litter).

Stud fee: $1,000 (average). Some breeders use pick-of-litter arrangements instead of cash stud fees.

Progesterone testing: $200 (4-6 tests at $40-50 each to determine optimal breeding timing).

Prenatal veterinary care: $300 (confirmation ultrasound at 28 days, radiograph at 55+ days for puppy count, routine monitoring).

Whelping (natural): $200 (whelping supplies, emergency vet fund for after-hours support if needed). Whelping (C-section): $1,500 if emergency surgical delivery is required (8% of Borzoi litters).

Puppy veterinary costs: $75 per puppy x 6 puppies = $450 (first vet check, first vaccines, deworming, microchips).

Food and supplies: $400 (premium large-breed puppy food, dam's increased nutrition during pregnancy and lactation, whelping supplies, bedding, toys).

AKC registration: $200 (litter registration plus individual puppy registrations for 6 puppies).

Total cost (natural whelping): $3,205

Total cost (C-section): $4,505

Revenue per litter:

Average puppy price (pet quality with limited registration): $2,000

Average puppy price (show quality with full registration): $3,000

Typical litter composition: 4 pet-quality puppies, 2 show-prospect puppies.

Average litter revenue: $12,000 (4 x $2,000 + 2 x $3,000)

Net per litter (natural whelping): $12,000 - $3,205 = $8,795

Net per litter (C-section): $12,000 - $4,505 = $7,495

Important economic considerations:

• These figures assume an average litter of 6 puppies. Single-puppy litters (8% occurrence) drastically reduce revenue.
• Health testing costs are amortized across multiple litters—the first litter bears a higher proportion of testing costs.
• Marketing costs, travel to shows for the dam/sire, and opportunity costs (time, facility maintenance) are not included in this calculation.
• Puppy prices vary significantly by region, breeder reputation, and titles on the parents.
• Show-quality puppies often go to show homes on co-ownership agreements (shared ownership between breeder and buyer), which may affect revenue structure.
• Emergency whelping complications beyond routine C-sections can add thousands in veterinary costs.

Responsible Borzoi breeding is rarely a profit-generating enterprise when all costs (including breeder time, show expenses to prove the dam, and facility maintenance) are factored in. Most breeders break even or operate at a loss, breeding for the love of the breed and to produce sound, typey puppies for preservation.

Breeder Resources

National parent club: Borzoi Club of America – Provides breeder education, health survey data, pedigree database, and CHIC requirements. The BCOA hosts national specialties and regional supported entries where breeders can network and evaluate breeding stock.

AKC breeder programs:

• AKC Breeder of Merit: Recognizes breeders who demonstrate a commitment to health testing, breed standards, and ethical practices. Requires CHIC health testing on all breeding stock.
• AKC Bred with H.E.A.R.T.: Emphasizes Health, Education, Accountability, Responsibility, and Tradition. Excellent credential for marketing puppy buyers.

Recommended books:

• The Complete Borzoi by Lorraine Groshans – Comprehensive breed history, standard interpretation, and breeding guidance.
• Borzoi: Russian Wolfhound by Nellie Martin – Historical perspective on the breed's Russian origins and development in the West.
• The Borzoi Handbook by G.S. Lowe – Practical care, training, and breeding information.

Online communities:

• Borzoi Club of America members forum (access through BCOA membership)
• Borzoi breed groups on Facebook (Borzoi Breed Discussion, Borzoi Owners & Lovers)
• National Borzoi Rescue Foundation – While primarily focused on rescue, NBRF provides education on the realities of Borzoi ownership that can help breeders educate puppy buyers.

Sighthound-specific organizations: Consider joining the American Sighthound Field Association (ASFA) or National Open Field Coursing Association (NOFCA) to evaluate your breeding stock's functional coursing ability—the original purpose of the breed.

Important mentorship: New breeders should seek a mentor through the BCOA. Experienced breeders can provide guidance on whelping Borzoi-specific challenges, evaluating puppies, and navigating the deep-chested giant breed's unique health landscape, particularly bloat prevention education for puppy buyers.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many puppies do Borzoi typically have?

Borzoi average 6 puppies per litter, with a range of 1 to 11 puppies. Single-puppy litters are relatively common (occurring in approximately 8% of litters), and large litters of 9+ puppies also occur occasionally. Litter size can vary significantly even within the same female's reproductive career.

Do Borzoi need C-sections?

The C-section rate for Borzoi is approximately 8%, which is remarkably low for a giant breed. Natural whelping is typical and recommended, as the breed's long, narrow pelvic structure is generally well-suited to natural delivery. However, single-puppy litters may produce oversized puppies requiring assistance, and very large litters can cause uterine inertia necessitating surgical intervention. Breeders should have emergency veterinary support on standby but can expect natural whelping in the vast majority of cases.

What health tests are required for breeding Borzoi?

The CHIC requirements for Borzoi are: (1) Eye Examination (CAER) performed annually, (2) Cardiac Evaluation via echocardiogram, (3) Thyroid Panel (full panel including TgAA), and (4) Degenerative Myelopathy DNA Test. Total estimated cost is approximately $455 for initial testing, plus $35 annually to recertify the eye exam. Additionally, many responsible breeders perform hip evaluations (OFA or PennHIP) even though it is not a CHIC requirement.

How much does it cost to breed Borzoi?

The total cost for breeding a Borzoi litter averages $3,205 for natural whelping or $4,505 for C-section delivery. Major expenses include health testing ($455 amortized), stud fee ($1,000), progesterone testing ($200), prenatal vet care ($300), whelping costs ($200-$1,500), puppy vet care ($450 for 6 puppies), food ($400), and registration ($200). These figures do not include the breeder's time, show expenses to prove the dam, or facility costs.

At what age can you breed a Borzoi?

Females should be bred at 2-3 years of age (second or third heat), after completing all required health testing. Borzoi cannot complete cardiac evaluation until 24 months of age (OFA minimum), so breeding before 2 years is not responsible. Males should be 2+ years with proven health testing before being used at stud. Borzoi mature slowly—rushing breeding before structural and reproductive maturity is achieved increases health risks and reduces the likelihood of producing quality puppies.

How much do Borzoi puppies cost?

Pet-quality Borzoi puppies with limited AKC registration average $2,000. Show-quality puppies with full registration average $3,000. Prices vary by region, breeder reputation, titles on the parents, and whether the puppy is sold on a co-ownership agreement. Borzoi are a relatively rare breed (ranked 101st in AKC popularity), and responsible breeders produce limited litters, which supports higher pricing than more common breeds.

What are the most common health problems in Borzoi?

The most critical health concerns in Borzoi are: (1) Bloat/GDV (15% prevalence)—the #1 killer of Borzoi, a life-threatening emergency; (2) Degenerative Myelopathy (12% prevalence)—a progressive neurological disease that is DNA-testable and manageable through breeding decisions; (3) Dilated Cardiomyopathy (8% prevalence)—heart muscle weakness requiring cardiac screening; (4) Hypothyroidism (10% prevalence)—easily managed with medication but requiring thyroid panel screening; and (5) Multifocal Retinopathy (12% prevalence)—an eye condition requiring annual CAER exams. Bloat prevention education for puppy buyers is critical.

Is breeding Borzoi profitable?

Breeding Borzoi is rarely profitable when all costs are considered. An average litter of 6 puppies generates approximately $12,000 in revenue, with costs of $3,205-$4,505 depending on whelping method, yielding a net of approximately $7,500-$8,800 per litter. However, this does not account for health testing amortization, show expenses to prove breeding stock, marketing costs, facility maintenance, or the breeder's time (easily 200+ hours per litter from breeding through puppy placement). Single-puppy litters (8% occurrence) drastically reduce revenue. Most Borzoi breeders break even or operate at a loss, breeding for preservation rather than profit.

What makes Borzoi different from other sighthounds to breed?

Borzoi differ from other sighthounds in several critical ways: (1) Size—at 75-105 lbs, Borzoi are giant dogs requiring different whelping protocols than smaller sighthounds like Whippets; (2) Bloat risk—the deep chest creates a 15% bloat prevalence, higher than most sighthounds; (3) Coat—the silky, flowing coat requires different grooming than smooth sighthounds and must be evaluated in breeding stock (harsh or woolly texture is incorrect); (4) Temperament—Borzoi are notably calmer and more dignified than many high-energy sighthounds, which affects puppy buyer suitability; and (5) Single-puppy litters—occur more frequently in Borzoi than in many other sighthound breeds.

Do Borzoi require special anesthesia protocols?

Yes. Like all sighthounds, Borzoi have lower body fat percentages and different drug metabolism than non-sighthound breeds, making them sensitive to certain anesthetic agents, particularly barbiturates. Breeders must educate puppy buyers to always inform their veterinarian that Borzoi are sighthounds requiring sighthound-safe anesthesia protocols. Propofol and isoflurane/sevoflurane gas anesthetics are generally safe; barbiturates (thiopental) and some pre-anesthetic sedatives may cause prolonged recovery or complications. This is critical for spay/neuter procedures and any surgical interventions.

What is the significance of the name change from Russian Wolfhound to Borzoi?

The breed was officially renamed from "Russian Wolfhound" to "Borzoi" in 1936 by the AKC. "Borzoi" is the Russian word for "swift" (borzyi = swift), which better captures the breed's essence as a fast, agile sighthound rather than emphasizing the specific quarry (wolves). The name change also helped distance the breed from its aristocratic Russian origins following the Russian Revolution, when anti-Russian sentiment affected the breed's popularity in the West. Today, "Borzoi" is the only recognized name, though older literature may reference "Russian Wolfhounds."

How does the Borzoi's deep chest affect breeding decisions?

The Borzoi's deep chest—essential for heart and lung capacity in a coursing sighthound—creates three major breeding considerations: (1) Bloat risk—15% prevalence makes bloat the #1 killer of Borzoi, requiring breeder education of puppy buyers about prevention (meal management, avoiding exercise after eating, monitoring for symptoms); (2) Late pregnancy discomfort—the deep chest leaves less room for the gravid uterus, potentially causing reduced appetite and mobility in the final weeks; and (3) Cardiac screening priority—DCM screening via echocardiogram is mandatory for CHIC because the large heart in a deep chest can develop structural and functional problems. Breeders must select for proper chest depth (to the elbow) while understanding the associated health management requirements.