Borzoi Feeding Guide
How much to feed your Borzoi — daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
Originally bred in Russia, the Borzoi has become one of the world's most recognizable large breeds, sitting at #102 in AKC popularity. A graceful Russian aristocrat among dogs whose serene elegance belies a prey drive that can ignite from zero to 40 mph in seconds. The Borzoi is a member of the Hound Group — dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their tendency toward weight gain during less active periods. An adult Borzoi needs between 1251 and 1904 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
Feed an adult Borzoi approximately 0.9–2.1 cups of quality kibble daily, split into two meals. Males (60–105 lbs) may need slightly more than females (51–92 lbs). Males weigh 75 to 105 pounds and females 55 to 85 pounds; despite their height, they are lean and should never appear bulky.. With moderate energy (3/5), portions at the middle of guidelines usually suffice.
Daily Calorie Needs for Borzoi
Adult
1251-1904
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1621
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
1001-1523
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different — consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Borzois
The Borzoi has a moderate energy level, making portion control straightforward but still important. Feed 3.3-5 cups of quality kibble daily, divided into two meals. A standard adult maintenance formula with balanced macronutrients works well. Monitor weight monthly, as moderate-energy breeds can gradually gain weight if portions aren't adjusted for actual activity.
Bloat Prevention for Borzois
Borzois are predisposed to Bloat (commonly known as bloat), one of the most serious emergencies in veterinary medicine. The stomach fills with gas and can twist on itself, cutting off blood supply. How you feed your Borzoi directly impacts this risk. Deep-chested breeds like the Borzoi are anatomically more susceptible, but proper feeding practices significantly reduce the odds.
Essential Feeding Practices
- Divide daily food into 2-3 smaller meals instead of one large feeding
- Use a slow-feeder bowl to prevent gulping air while eating
- Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 30-60 minutes before and after meals
- Keep your dog calm during and after mealtimes — excitement increases air swallowing
- Consider moistening kibble with warm water to reduce expansion in the stomach
- Avoid elevated bowls if your vet hasn't specifically recommended them
Borzoi Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
1.7-2.5 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
1.7-2.5 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Borzoi
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 3.3-5 cups | 1251-1904 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 5-7.6 cans | 1251-1904 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 19-50 oz | 1251-1904 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 3.3-5 cups
- Calories
- 1251-1904 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 5-7.6 cans
- Calories
- 1251-1904 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 19-50 oz
- Calories
- 1251-1904 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Borzois
Moderate daily exercise (30-45 minutes of walks and play) keeps the Borzoi fit and helps regulate appetite. Most Borzois do well on a consistent daily portion without needing exercise-day adjustments. If your dog gets significantly more activity on weekends (long hikes, beach trips), you can add a small handful of kibble to their evening meal on those days.
Coat & Skin Nutrition
The Borzoi's Long and Silky requires nutritional support from the inside out. Long-coated breeds need consistent nutritional support to maintain coat health, prevent matting, and reduce breakage. A diet deficient in essential fatty acids, biotin, or zinc will show in the coat quality within weeks — look for dullness, excessive shedding, or dry, flaky skin as early warning signs.
Key Nutrients for Coat Health
Thyroid Health & Diet
Hypothyroidism is a recognized concern in Borzois, affecting metabolism, weight, coat quality, and energy level. A Borzoi with untreated hypothyroidism may gain weight despite eating normal portions, develop a thin or dull coat, and become lethargic. If your Borzoi shows these signs, a simple blood test can confirm the diagnosis. While thyroid medication (levothyroxine) is the primary treatment, dietary support matters: ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet, maintain strict portion control to prevent weight gain, and consider a weight-management formula if your dog is on thyroid medication but still struggling with weight.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Feeding one large meal per day
Borzois are at risk for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening emergency. Always split daily food into 2-3 smaller meals and avoid exercise immediately after eating. Consider an elevated bowl and a slow-feeder.
Blaming laziness for weight gain without checking thyroid
Borzois are predisposed to hypothyroidism, which slows metabolism and causes weight gain even on normal portions. If your Borzoi is gaining weight despite measured feeding, ask your vet for a thyroid panel before simply cutting food.
Switching foods abruptly without a transition period
Any diet change — brand, flavor, or formula — should happen gradually over 7-10 days. Mix increasing amounts of the new food with decreasing amounts of the old. Abrupt switches cause digestive upset (diarrhea, vomiting, gas) in most dogs, Borzois included.
Not accounting for treats in the daily calorie budget
Treats should never exceed 10% of your Borzoi's daily calorie intake. A single dental chew can contain 70-90 calories — significant for a dog that only needs 1238 calories per day. Subtract treat calories from meal portions.
Borzoi-Specific Feeding Tips
Tip 1
Tip 2
Tip 3
Tip 4
Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Borzois, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Meal Frequency
Feed 2-3 smaller meals per day instead of one large meal. Use a slow-feeder bowl. Avoid exercise 30 minutes before and after meals.
Antioxidants
Include foods rich in antioxidants (vitamins C and E, beta-carotene, lutein). Blueberries and carrots make excellent treats.
Iodine & Selenium
Ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet. Weight management is important as hypothyroidism can cause weight gain.
Borzoi Ideal Weight
Assessing your Borzoi's body condition (healthy range: 60–105 lbs): Rib check: Run your hands along the ribcage—you should feel individual ribs under a slight fat layer. Overhead view: A defined waist should be visible between ribs and hips. Side profile: The abdomen should tuck upward behind the last rib. Overweight Borzois face higher risks of Bloat, joint problems, and shortened lifespan.
Male Borzoi
60-105 lbs
27-48 kg
Female Borzoi
51-92 lbs
23-42 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.