Borzoi vs Shetland Sheepdog

Hound · Large vs Herding · Small

Quick take
  • Borzoi is the larger breed at 75–105 lbs (males) vs 15–25 lbs for the Shetland Sheepdog.
  • The Shetland Sheepdog typically lives longer (12–14 years).
  • The Shetland Sheepdog has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Shetland Sheepdog is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorzoiShetland Sheepdog
Group
HoundHerding
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
RussiaScotland
Height (male)
28"13–16"
Height (female)
26"13–16"
Weight (male)
75–105 lbs15–25 lbs
Weight (female)
60–85 lbs15–25 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–14 years12–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Very High (5/5)
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)High (4/5)
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)Very High (5/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longlong
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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 Shetland Sheepdog

The Shetland Sheepdog is a bright, playful, energetic miniature Collie from the windswept Shetland Islands — keenly intelligent. Originally from Scotland, this small herding breed typically weighs 15–25 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as bright, playful, energetic.

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Borzoi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Shetland Sheepdog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Collie eye anomaly
  • MDR1 gene mutation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism