Borzoi vs Irish Water Spaniel

Hound · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Borzoi is the larger breed at 75–105 lbs (males) vs 55–68 lbs for the Irish Water Spaniel.
  • The Irish Water Spaniel typically lives longer (12–13 years).
  • The Irish Water Spaniel has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Irish Water Spaniel sheds less.
  • The Irish Water Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorzoiIrish Water Spaniel
Group
HoundSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
RussiaIreland
Height (male)
28"22–24"
Height (female)
26"21–23"
Weight (male)
75–105 lbs55–68 lbs
Weight (female)
60–85 lbs45–58 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–14 years12–13 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Borzoi

The Borzoi is a regal, affectionate, quiet Russian wolfhound — aristocratic sighthound with the long elegant snout. Originally from Russia, this large hound breed typically weighs 75–105 lbs and lives 9–14 years. Breeders describe them as regal, affectionate, quiet.

About the Irish Water Spaniel

The Irish Water Spaniel is a playful, hardworking, brave water retriever — Ireland's sporting clown with a famous rat-tail. Originally from Ireland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 55–68 lbs and lives 12–13 years. Breeders describe them as playful, hardworking, brave.

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Borzoi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Irish Water Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Hypothyroidism