Choosing to share your life with a Borzoi—a graceful, long‑limbed sighthound once favored by Russian nobility—means committing to more than daily walks and couch cuddles. From the day you bring your puppy (or rescue) home to the last gentle gray years, costs add up quickly. Use this itemized guide to predict exactly what a Borzoi will cost you now and 10 years down the road, so you can budget responsibly and enjoy every carefree zoomie together.
Quick Snapshot: Total Borzoi Ownership Cost
| Expense Category | First‑Year Range | Annual Range (Years 2+) | Lifetime Estimate* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Purchase / Adoption | $200–$5,000 | — | — |
| Gear & Setup | $450–$1,200 | $100–$250 | $1,350–$3,950 |
| Food & Treats | $250–$700 | $250–$700 | $2,500–$8,400 |
| Grooming | $300–$600 | $300–$600 | $3,000–$7,200 |
| Training | $200–$1,000 | $100–$300 | $1,100–$3,700 |
| Veterinary Care** | $500–$1,200 | $800–$2,400 | $8,500–$26,400 |
| Total | $1,900–$9,700 | $1,550–$4,250 | $12,335–$42,190 |
*Based on a 10‑ to 12‑year lifespan.
**Routine care only—does not include major emergencies.
Up‑Front Costs: Purchase vs. Adoption
- Breeder price: Expect $1,500–$2,500 for a healthy, pet‑quality Borzoi puppy from a reputable breeder. Champion bloodlines, rare colors, or intensive health testing can push prices to $5,000 or more.
- Rescue or shelter fee: Specialized Borzoi rescues typically charge $200–$650, often including spay/neuter and core vaccines. Adoption not only saves money but also gives a deserving hound a second chance.
Budget Tip: Regardless of source, ask for hip, heart, and eye health clearances to avoid wallet‑draining hereditary issues later.
First‑Year Gear & Home Setup
| Item | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
| 48‑in. wire crate | $90 |
| Orthopedic dog bed | $60 |
| Bowls (slow‑feeder recommended) | $30 |
| Martingale collar & 6‑ft leash | $40 |
| Harness for deep chests | $35 |
| Interactive toys & chews | $50–$200 |
| Puppy gates, potty pads, ID tags | $100–$250 |
Many of these supplies last years, so the $450–$1,200 first‑year outlay drops to maintenance‑level costs after you’re fully stocked.
Grooming: Silky Coats Need TLC
Borzoi coats don’t mat as easily as some long‑haired breeds, but weekly brushing and professional baths every 6–8 weeks keep them gleaming.
- DIY supplies: Slicker brush, greyhound comb, nail grinder—$50–$150 per year
- Professional sessions: $35–$75 each; plan on $300–$600 annually
Skipping regular grooming leads to tangles and skin issues that cost more at the vet than the groomer—budget wisely.
Food & Nutrition Costs
A 70‑ to 105‑lb athletic Borzoi eats 5–6 cups of premium kibble daily or the equivalent in raw/fresh food.
- Premium kibble: $250–$450 yearly
- Fresh/freeze‑dried/raw diets: $500–$700 yearly
Factor in joint supplements or fish oil ($80–$150) if recommended by your veterinarian.
Training & Enrichment
Early obedience and consistent positive‑reinforcement prevent a powerful sighthound from dragging you after every squirrel.
- Group puppy class (6 weeks): ≈ $250
- Private session: ≈ $90–$120
- Advanced scent or agility (optional): $150–$300 per course
Allocate $200–$1,000 the first year, plus a smaller annual refresher to keep skills sharp.
Medical & Preventive Care
Routine Vet Bills
| Service | First‑Year Cost |
|---|---|
| 3–4 wellness exams | $195–$680 |
| Core vaccines & boosters | $50–$300 |
| Spay/neuter | $20–$300 |
| Monthly flea/tick & heartworm meds | $60–$180 |
Long‑Term Health Concerns
Borzoi are prone to bloat (GDV), progressive retinal atrophy, and osteosarcoma. An emergency GDV surgery can top $3,000–$6,000. A robust emergency fund or pet insurance policy ($50–$90 monthly) protects both your budget and your dog.
Hidden & Occasional Expenses
- Boarding/Pet‑sitting for vacations: $40–$75 per night
- Professional dog walking: $20–$35 per 30‑min visit
- Licensing & microchipping: $40–$80 initially; $10–$20 renewals
- Replacement furniture/yard repairs: Those powerful tails can clear a coffee table!
Lifetime Cost Projection & Money‑Saving Tips
- Set up an automatic “Borzoi Fund.” Redirect $100–$250 monthly to a high‑yield savings account.
- Buy quality once. Durable beds, stainless bowls, and strong leashes cost more now but last longer.
- Learn basic grooming at home. Even alternating DIY baths can cut yearly grooming bills in half.
- Price‑shop medication. Online pharmacies and manufacturer rebates save 20–40 %.
- Invest in training early. A well‑mannered Borzoi avoids costly property damage and liability issues.
With thoughtful planning, most families spend ≈ $25,000 over their Borzoi’s lifetime—money well spent for a decade of elegant companionship.
Key Takeaways
- Up‑front price: $200–$5,000 depending on adoption vs. breeder
- First‑year total: $1,900–$9,700 (plan for the higher end if you choose premium food and full‑service grooming)
- Annual cost after Year 1: $1,550–$4,250
- Lifetime commitment: Prepare for $12,000–$42,000 and enjoy a healthier, happier hound
Ready to welcome this aristocratic sprinter home? Budget smart, spend wisely, and your Borzoi will repay you in couch cuddles, graceful gallops, and endless love.
