Borzoi vs Shiba Inu

Hound · Large vs Non-Sporting · Small

Quick take
  • Borzoi is the larger breed at 75–105 lbs (males) vs 23 lbs for the Shiba Inu.
  • The Shiba Inu typically lives longer (13–16 years).
  • The Shiba Inu has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Borzoi is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBorzoiShiba Inu
Group
HoundNon-Sporting
Size
LargeSmall
Origin
RussiaJapan
Height (male)
28"14.5–16.5"
Height (female)
26"13.5–15.5"
Weight (male)
75–105 lbs23 lbs
Weight (female)
60–85 lbs17 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
9–14 years13–16 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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)High (4/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
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)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longmedium
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 Shiba Inu

The Shiba Inu is an alert, active, attentive small Spitz — Japan's most popular national dog and the original 'doge' meme. Originally from Japan, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 23 lbs and lives 13–16 years. Breeders describe them as alert, active, attentive.

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Borzoi health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Heart disease
  • Anesthesia sensitivity

Shiba Inu health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Patellar luxation
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Allergies