Bouvier des Flandres vs Whippet

Herding · Large vs Hound · Medium

Quick take
  • Bouvier des Flandres is the larger breed at 70–110 lbs (males) vs 25–40 lbs for the Whippet.
  • The Whippet typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Bouvier des Flandres is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitBouvier des FlandresWhippet
Group
HerdingHound
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
BelgiumEngland
Height (male)
24.5–27.5"19–22"
Height (female)
23.5–26.5"18–21"
Weight (male)
70–110 lbs25–40 lbs
Weight (female)
70–110 lbs25–40 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years12–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Moderate (3/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Low (2/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Bouvier des Flandres

The Bouvier des Flandres is a courageous, strong-willed, devoted Belgian cattle drover — bearded farm guardian and WWI ambulance dog. Originally from Belgium, this large herding breed typically weighs 70–110 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as courageous, strong-willed, devoted.

About the Whippet

The Whippet is an affectionate, playful, calm small sighthound — looks like a mini Greyhound, sprints like one too. Originally from England, this medium hound breed typically weighs 25–40 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, playful, calm.

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Bouvier des Flandres health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye disorders
  • Bloat

Whippet health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Heart disease
  • Eye conditions
  • Anesthesia sensitivity