Borzoi Feeding Guide
Published by DosageGuide · Reviewed
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.
An adult Borzoi weighing 60 to 105 lb needs about 1251 to 1904 kcal a day, around 1589 kcal for a neutered dog at a healthy weight with moderate activity. On a dry food of 380 kcal per cup that is 3.3-5 cups daily, roughly 348 to 528 grams, split into two meals; on wet food alone, 5-7.6 cans of 250 kcal; on a raw diet, 19-50 oz of food, about 2-3% of body weight. Weigh the ration rather than measuring it by cup, since kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, count treats inside that total rather than on top of it, and keep them under ten per cent of the calories. A Borzoi that gains or loses weight on these amounts needs a vet's opinion, not simply a different scoop: these figures are a starting point for a healthy dog, and they assume the 9-to-14-year life stage and activity level described below rather than pregnancy, illness or working days.
Two of the conditions this breed is screened for change how it should be fed, and the less common one matters more here because it is the one a general feeding guide never mentions. With bloat, split the daily ration into two or three meals, keep the dog quiet for an hour after eating, and learn the signs, an unproductive retch and a swelling abdomen, because the window to reach a vet is measured in hours. With hypothyroidism, an underactive thyroid slows the metabolism, so a dog on the correct ration can still gain; if weight rises without more food, that is a reason to test rather than to cut the ration further. Neither is a reason to choose a different food off the shelf; both are reasons to weigh the ration rather than estimate it.
A long coat is a continuous protein demand rather than a seasonal one, and a dull, brittle coat is one of the first visible signs of a diet short on protein or on fat. Grooming shows it before a scale does. For a Borzoi, that is the check worth making weekly.
Males and females of this breed differ enough in size that one ration does not fit both: around 83 lb against 72 lb on average, a gap of 15 per cent. Feeding both from the same scoop overfeeds one and underfeeds the other, and the figures on this page should be read against the dog in front of you rather than against the breed average.
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
An adult Borzoi typically needs 1251-1904 calories per day, which translates to approximately 3.3-5 cups of dry kibble daily, split into two meals. However, this is a starting point, your specific dog's needs depend on their exact weight within the 60-105 lb range, activity level, metabolism, and whether they're spayed/neutered (which reduces calorie needs by about 20-30%).
Adult Borzois should be fed twice a day, ideally 12 hours apart (morning and evening). Because this breed is at risk for bloat, splitting food into 2-3 meals is especially important, never feed the entire daily portion in one sitting. Consistent meal times help regulate digestion, blood sugar, and make house training easier.
Look for a food that lists real meat (not meal or by-products) as the first ingredient, contains 22-30% protein, and is formulated for large breeds. Large breed formulas have controlled calcium (1.0-1.5%) and phosphorus levels to support skeletal health. Weigh the food rather than measuring it by cup: kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, so the same cup can hold 80 or 120 grams.
Large breed Borzoi puppies should transition to adult food between 12-15 months of age. The key is not to switch based on size alone, your puppy should be at or near their expected adult height. Transition gradually over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of adult food with decreasing amounts of puppy food. Choose a large-breed adult formula with appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels.
Bloat (GDV) prevention through feeding: divide daily food into 2-3 meals rather than one; use a slow-feeder bowl; avoid vigorous exercise 30-60 minutes before and after meals; keep meal times calm; consider moistening kibble with warm water; and don't let your dog drink excessive water immediately after eating. While no feeding method guarantees bloat prevention, these practices significantly reduce the risk in susceptible breeds like the Borzoi. Discuss prophylactic gastropexy with your vet, especially if you're getting a puppy.
Raw (BARF) diets are an option for Borzois, with proponents citing shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and better digestion. A typical raw diet provides 2-3% of body weight daily, for a Borzoi, that means roughly 19-50 oz per day. The diet should include muscle meat (70%), raw meaty bones (10%), organ meat (10%), and vegetables/fruits (10%). However, raw diets carry risks of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalance if not properly formulated. Consult a veterinary nutritionist before switching.
A healthy adult Borzoi weighs between 60-105 lbs (males: 60-105 lbs, females: 51-92 lbs). Use the body condition score (BCS) method: you should be able to feel ribs with light pressure but not see them, observe a visible waist when viewed from above, and notice an abdominal tuck from the side. If your Borzoi exceeds 121 lbs or you can't feel the ribs, consult your vet about a weight management plan.
Males: 60–105 lbs. 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.. Consult your vet for a personalized assessment. The figures on this page assume a neutered adult at a healthy weight with moderate activity; an intact, working or growing dog needs more, and a dog on restricted exercise needs less.
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.