Borzoi vs Irish Wolfhound

Hound · Large vs Hound · Giant

Quick take
  • Irish Wolfhound is the larger breed at 120 lbs (males) vs 75–105 lbs for the Borzoi.
  • The Borzoi typically lives longer (9–14 years).
  • The Irish Wolfhound sheds less.
  • The Irish Wolfhound is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorzoiIrish Wolfhound
Group
HoundHound
Size
LargeGiant
Origin
RussiaIreland
Height (male)
28"32–34"
Height (female)
26"30–32"
Weight (male)
75–105 lbs120 lbs
Weight (female)
60–85 lbs105 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–14 years6–8 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Wolfhound

The Irish Wolfhound is a courageous, dignified, calm gentle giant — the tallest of all dogs, ancient Celtic war and hunting hound. Originally from Ireland, this giant hound breed typically weighs 120 lbs and lives 6–8 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, dignified, calm.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Borzoi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Irish Wolfhound health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bone cancer
  • Heart disease
  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia