Borzoi vs Whippet: Breed Comparison & Guide

Borzois and Whippets are both sighthounds, known for their speed and hunting by sight. Borzois hail from Russia, bred to chase wolves in the open plains. They have long, silky coats and a noble demeanor. Whippets started in England, racing after rabbits and rats for sport. They boast a short, smooth coat and a friendly disposition.

These breeds share some traits but differ greatly in others. This section digs into their distinct characteristics. It sets up a thorough comparison of their looks, personality, and care requirements.

The goal is to guide future pet parents on which dog might fit their home best.

Visual Differences of Borzoi & Whippet

Borzois are big dogs, as tall as 32 inches and weighing up to 105 pounds. Whippets are smaller, with a height of 18 to 22 inches and a weight of 25 to 40 pounds. You can easily see the size difference between them.

Borzois have long, silky fur in many colors, which keeps them warm in the cold. Whippets have short, smooth fur that is easy to care for. Both are built for speed, with Borzois having a bigger curve in their back and Whippets looking more balanced. They were both bred to be fast hunters.

A Quick Overview – Borzoi vs Whippet

Breed History of Borzoi & Whippet

Borzois and Whippets both boast a rich heritage. Borzois, once known as Russian Wolfhounds, have a noble past. They were the favored companions of Russian aristocracy for hunting wolves.

Their coats come in many colors like white, black, cream, and red. Some even sport striking patterns that make them stand out. The luxurious silky fur of Borzois requires regular grooming to maintain its elegance.

Whippets have a history rooted in England where they raced and hunted small game.

Their coat colors are also varied, including fawn, black, white, blue, and brindle. Unique hues such as blue brindle draw attention to these graceful dogs. With their short and smooth coat, Whippets are easier to groom than their Borzoi counterparts.

Appearance of Borzoi & Whippet

Borzois and Whippets share a slender grace, but they differ in size and demeanor. The Borzoi boasts an average height taller than most dogs, making them stand out in any environment. Their long, silky coats demand regular grooming to stay beautiful.

Whippets are smaller, with a sleek coat that’s easy to maintain – a plus for busy owners.

People often search for a dog that fits their living conditions. The Borzoi needs space to match its large size. They might not suit an office environment or a small apartment. Whippets, being more compact, adapt well to various living situations.

Both breeds have gentle hearts. They show affection and sensitivity towards their family. Yet, the Borzoi can be reserved around strangers. It may take time for them to warm up to somebody new. In contrast, Whippets often greet people with enthusiasm.

When children or other pets are part of the family, both breeds can fit right in with proper socialization. Supervision is key, especially during the early stages of bringing your new friend home. This ensures everyone gets along well.

A physical check at the vet is important every year for these breeds. It helps catch any potential health issues early on.

For those sensitive to smells, neither breed tends to have a bad smell. This makes them an attractive choice for owners who prefer a fresher-smelling companion.

Coat & Colors

The Borzoi boasts a luxurious, silky coat that can challenge even the most patient owners. It requires regular grooming to maintain its elegance. They come in various colors and patterns, from solid hues to brindles and everything in between. Borzois have a majestic presence that reflects their aristocratic heritage.

Whippets wear a short coat, which is much easier to care for. Their fur doesn’t tangle or mat like the Borzoi’s might. Whippet colors range widely too, allowing for many beautiful shades and combinations. This breed’s sleek appearance complements its lightning-fast speed on the race track.

Training these breeds requires understanding their personalities. The Borzoi’s independent nature means they may not always follow commands right away. They need an owner who is gentle but firm. On the other hand, Whippets often show an eagerness to please. Their training usually goes smoothly because they love making their owners happy.

For both breeds, positive reinforcement works wonders. Treats and praises encourage good behavior without forcing it. Short, fun training sessions keep them interested and willing to learn more.

Temperament

Borzois and Whippets share a love for running. They need lots of exercise. Their long legs make them fast. Borzois were once wolf hunters in Russia. They have great speed and stamina. Whippets are sprinters too. They were racing dogs in England.

Both breeds do well in sports that match their skills. Borzois excel at lure coursing. This sport lets them chase a fast-moving lure across a field. It’s perfect for their hunting instincts and love of the chase. Whippets shine in agility training. They jump and weave through obstacles with grace.

It’s important to give these dogs safe places to play off-leash. They both have strong prey drives. Without a secure area, they might run after small animals.

Their temperaments are friendly but different. Borzois are calm indoors but need space to stretch outside. Whippets are more affectionate and can be good therapy dogs.

Despite their thin coats, Borzois handle cold weather better than Whippets due to their Russian heritage. Whippets prefer warmer temperatures.

Owners should know these dogs live long lives with proper care. A healthy lifestyle is key for their wellbeing.

They’re not typical service dogs but can be trained for specific tasks if needed.

Remember, a happy dog needs mental and physical challenges every day.

Trainability

Whippets are known for their effortless trainability. They learn quickly due to their sharp minds. Their short coats mean they need minimal grooming. A quick brush now and then keeps them tidy.

Borzois, on the other hand, have luxurious long hair. This means they need regular brushing. It prevents mats and tangles in their fur. Both dogs need nail care, teeth cleaning, and ear checks to stay healthy.

These breeds have different energy levels. Whippets have a moderate chance of being lively. They enjoy a good run but also love relaxing at home. Borzois possess a higher wanderlust potential. They might chase after interesting scents if given the chance.

Both breeds show a low drooling tendency. This is good news for owners who prefer a cleaner house.

When it comes to training, remember each dog’s personality from the “Temperament” section. Whippets respond well to positive methods. Borzois do too, but they can be more independent.

Keep sessions short and fun for both breeds. This will help them learn without getting bored or stressed.

Exercise

Borzois and Whippets both need regular exercise to stay healthy. They love to run and play, which helps them burn off energy. Borzois, with their long legs and strong bodies, may need more space to move around. They often enjoy long walks or a good run in a fenced area. Whippets are smaller but still full of life. They can do well with short bursts of activity followed by rest.

For both breeds, it’s important to watch their weight. Keeping them at a healthy size means less stress on their bodies and hearts. A vet can help figure out the best food for each dog, especially big Borzois. They might eat more because of their size, but they shouldn’t get too heavy.

It’s smart to talk with a vet about your dog’s diet. This is extra true for Borzois because they’re bigger. The right food gives them the energy they need without adding extra pounds. Whippets are easier in this way since they’re smaller and don’t eat as much.

Both dogs like being inside the house where it’s warm when it’s cold outside. Their coats aren’t made for chilly weather, so they should spend most time indoors during winter.

Remembering what we learned about how smart these dogs are, feeding them right also keeps their minds sharp. Good food can help them learn better when training.

Grooming

Borzois and Whippets both need grooming, but their needs differ. Borzois have long, silky coats that require regular brushing to prevent tangles. They might need a bath every few months unless they get dirty. Their long hair can trap dirt and debris, so it’s important to keep them clean. Whippets have short, smooth coats with minimal grooming needs. A quick brush once a week is usually enough to remove loose hair.

Both breeds need their nails trimmed regularly to avoid discomfort and potential health issues. Check their ears weekly for signs of infection or wax buildup and clean as necessary. Dental hygiene is also crucial; brushing their teeth several times a week prevents gum disease.

These grooming routines offer protection against skin problems and enhance the dogs’ overall well-being. Aligning grooming with your lifestyle ensures your pet stays happy and healthy.

Feeding

Borzoi and Whippet breeds have unique dietary needs due to their different health concerns. Borzois may face issues like bloat, a dangerous stomach condition. They need meals that are easy to digest and served in smaller portions throughout the day to prevent this. On the other hand, Whippets can develop heart conditions. Their diet should include nutrients that support cardiac health.

Regular check-ups with the vet help catch these problems early. They also guide owners on the right food choices for their pets. For both breeds, preventive care through diet is crucial. It helps avoid serious health issues and keeps them healthy and happy.

Prospective owners should research the health history of puppy parents before bringing a dog home. This step is vital in understanding potential future health problems. Reputable breeders will provide this information and help you prepare for your pet’s needs.

Remember, proper feeding goes beyond just what’s in the bowl. It includes understanding each breed’s specific health risks and how to combat them with nutrition and care. By doing so, you can ensure your furry friend leads a long, healthy life.

Puppy Prices

Buying a puppy is an exciting step. You’ll want to think about the cost. Borzois and Whippets have different prices. Borzois often cost more than Whippets due to their size and rarity. On average, a Borzoi puppy might set you back between $1,000 and $2,500. Whippets are usually less expensive, with prices ranging from $800 to $1,500.

Remember, these are average dogs with unique needs. They’re not just friendly dogs; they require time and care. They can be great companions for the right person or family. It’s important to consider your lifestyle before choosing one of these breeds.

Borzois need lots of space to run and can weigh up to 105 pounds. Whippets are smaller, averaging around 20-40 pounds in weight. Both breeds make average watchdogs but excel in companionship.

If possible, try to meet both breeds in person. This will help you see which dog fits better in your home. Some may prefer the elegance of a Borzoi while others might find a Whippet’s playful nature more appealing.

Don’t forget about rescue dogs too! Adopting from a shelter is often cheaper than buying a puppy. Plus, it gives a loving home to a dog that really needs one.

Health Conditions and Concerns

Borzoi and Whippet breeds face different health problems. Borzois may suffer from heart issues and eye conditions. Whippets might get heart problems too, but less often. Both can have joint issues, like hip dysplasia.

Whippets are sensitive to cold due to their short coats. They need warm clothes in chilly weather. Borzois have longer fur, which helps them stay warm. But in hot climates, they could overheat.

Lifestyle changes can prevent obesity in these dogs. Regular exercise is key for them. It keeps their muscles strong and their weight down.

Both breeds usually live 12-14 years, which is a good life expectancy for dogs. Owners should watch for signs of aging, like slowing down or getting tired more easily.

Elderly people might prefer Whippets because they’re smaller and easier to handle than Borzois. But both breeds are at average risk for common canine health issues.

Remember, the cost of a puppy includes future vet care for these health factors.

Final Thoughts

In the end, Borzois are big, calm dogs that look and act like royalty, while Whippets are fast, fun, and love to play. If you’re thinking about getting one, think about how much room you have at home and how active you are. Borzois need more space and like slow walks. Whippets are great if you want a lively buddy for fun or sports. Both types of dogs make great friends, but knowing what they need will make you both happier together.