Borzoi Colors & Coat Guide

All recognized Borzoi colors, coat types, genetics, and how color can impact pricing and health.

Borzoi Colors Overview

Comes in virtually any color; the flat, silky coat texture is controlled by genes distinct from those producing similar-length coats in other breeds.. Breed standards outline which colors are accepted for conformation showing.

Color inheritance involves multiple genes—including the E (extension), A (agouti), K (dominant black), and B (brown) loci. DNA testing can predict puppy colors and identify carriers of recessive color genes.

Recognized Colors

White Standard

Gold Standard

Red Standard

Brindle

Black

Cream Standard

Sable

Color & Price Impact

Standard colors	Normal pricing ($1000–$2000)
Rare/unusual colors	Premium pricing (+$600–$1000)

Coat Genetics

Color genetics in Borzois involve multiple loci working together. Comes in virtually any color; the flat, silky coat texture is controlled by genes distinct from those producing similar-length coats in other breeds..

Key genetic loci include E (controls whether pigment is expressed), A (pattern distribution), K (solid vs. patterned), and B (black vs. brown base). DNA testing allows breeders to predict litter colors accurately.

Rare vs Standard Colors

Rarity in Borzoi colors typically reflects recessive genetics rather than desirability. The breed offers 7 color varieties, with standard colors including White, Gold, Red, Cream. While unusual colors may be visually striking, they sometimes correlate with health concerns or breeding shortcuts.

A reputable Borzoi breeder will never compromise health testing (for Bloat and other conditions) to produce trendy colors. Be skeptical of breeders who market 'rare' colors at prices well above the $1000–$2000 standard range.

Do Borzoi Colors Change with Age?

As your Borzoi puppy matures toward its adult weight of 60–105 lbs, expect their coat to change too. Most puppies undergo a coat transition between 4 and 12 months that can alter color depth, pattern visibility, and overall appearance. The breed's long and silky coat may require adjusted grooming during this transition..

Controversial Colors

In the Borzoi world, so-called 'rare' colors can be controversial. The breed standard recognizes colors like White, Gold, Red, Cream, and deviations may involve genes associated with health problems. Breeders who focus on color over health may cut corners on testing for Bloat and Osteosarcoma.

Frequently Asked Questions

Standard Borzoi colors include White, Gold, Red, Cream. Comes in virtually any color; the flat, silky coat texture is controlled by genes distinct from those producing similar-length coats in other breeds..

Rarity depends on genetics. Non-standard colors may be less common but should not be prioritized over health and temperament. Comes in virtually any color; the flat, silky coat texture is controlled by genes distinct from those producing similar-length coats in other breeds..

As a Borzoi puppy matures from puppyhood to adulthood (4–12 months), coat color can shift. Comes in virtually any color; the flat, silky coat texture is controlled by genes distinct from those producing similar-length coats in other breeds.. Since the Borzoi comes in 7 recognized color varieties, the extent of change depends on the specific color genetics involved.

In most cases, coat color does not affect health. However, certain color genes (such as merle or extreme white) can carry health implications in some breeds. Comes in virtually any color; the flat, silky coat texture is controlled by genes distinct from those producing similar-length coats in other breeds..

Standard colors like White, Gold, Red, Cream are the most widely available for Borzois. Non-standard colors such as Brindle, Black, Sable may occasionally appear but are less common. Breed experts consistently advise choosing based on health testing and temperament rather than color preference.