Great Dane vs Borzoi
Decision Helper
Quick Decision Guide
Great Dane might be better if you:
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
Borzoi might be better if you:
- Lead an active lifestyle
- Prefer low-maintenance grooming
- Live in an apartment or prefer quiet dogs
Find Your Match
Quick Match Quiz
Question 1 of 7
What best describes your lifestyle?
Breed Overview
Great Dane
The Great Dane is a giant breed known for its impressive size, gentle demeanor, and regal appearance. Typically standing between 28 to 34 inches tall at the shoulder and weighing between 110 to 175 pounds, they are one of the tallest dog breeds. Despite their imposing stature, Great Danes are known for their friendly and affectionate nature, often forming strong bonds with their families. They are generally good with children and can be sociable with other pets if properly socialized. Their short coat is low-maintenance, but they do require regular exercise to maintain their health. Great Danes are often referred to as 'gentle giants' due to their calm and loving disposition, but they also possess a protective instinct, making them excellent watchdogs.
Borzoi
The Borzoi, also known as the Russian Wolfhound, is a large, elegant breed with a long, narrow head, and a distinctive silky coat that can come in various colors and patterns. They are known for their grace and speed, resembling a sighthound. Borzois are generally gentle, affectionate, and loyal, making them great companions. They are intelligent but can be independent, often requiring patient training. Their calm demeanor and gentle nature make them well-suited for families, though they can be reserved around strangers. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are important to keep them happy and healthy.
Key Statistics
Life Expectancy
Height (Male)
Weight (Male)
Breed Characteristics
Good with Children
Good with children
Good with children
Good with Other Dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Generally friendly with other dogs
Shedding
Moderate shedding level
Moderate shedding level
Grooming Needs
Low grooming needs
Low grooming needs
Trainability
Moderately trainable
Can be challenging to train
Energy Level
Very energetic breed
Very energetic breed
Barking Tendency
Moderate barking tendency
Minimal barking tendency
Care Requirements
Care Requirements
Great Dane
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Regular grooming to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Feeding
Provide high-quality dog food suited for large breeds.
Health Care
Regular grooming to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Borzoi
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Brush coat at least once a week to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suitable for large breeds to maintain healthy weight.
Health Care
Provide a balanced diet suitable for large breeds to maintain healthy weight.
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Exercise Needs
Regular exercise needed
Grooming
Regular grooming to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Grooming
Brush coat at least once a week to prevent matting and remove loose hair.
Feeding
Provide high-quality dog food suited for large breeds.
Feeding
Provide a balanced diet suitable for large breeds to maintain healthy weight.
Health Care
Regular grooming to manage shedding and maintain coat health.
Health Care
Provide a balanced diet suitable for large breeds to maintain healthy weight.
Additional Care Notes
Great Dane
- •Regularly check ears and trim nails as needed.
Borzoi
Training & Exercise
Training & Exercise Guide
Great Dane
Great Danes require early socialization and obedience training to manage their size and strength. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash manners should be taught using positive reinforcement techniques. Consistency and patience are key, as well as ensuring that training sessions are short and engaging to maintain their attention.
Training Challenges
- •Instinct to jump on people due to their size, which can be intimidating
- •Stubbornness, requiring patience and consistent reinforcement
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
- •Difficulty with leash training due to their strength
- •Socialization challenges with smaller dogs or pets due to size disparity
Borzoi
Borzoi dogs require a gentle yet firm approach to basic training. Start with essential commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Utilize positive reinforcement techniques, rewarding good behavior with treats and praise. Socialization is crucial, so expose them to various environments, people, and other animals to ensure they develop into well-rounded companions.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness during training sessions
- •High prey drive leading to distractions
- •Sensitivity to harsh training methods
- •Difficulty in maintaining focus for extended periods
- •Socialization issues with unfamiliar dogs
Great Dane
Great Danes require early socialization and obedience training to manage their size and strength. Basic commands such as sit, stay, come, and leash manners should be taught using positive reinforcement techniques. Consistency and patience are key, as well as ensuring that training sessions are short and engaging to maintain their attention.
Training Challenges
- •Instinct to jump on people due to their size, which can be intimidating
- •Stubbornness, requiring patience and consistent reinforcement
- •Separation anxiety if left alone for long periods
- •Difficulty with leash training due to their strength
- •Socialization challenges with smaller dogs or pets due to size disparity
Borzoi
Borzoi dogs require a gentle yet firm approach to basic training. Start with essential commands such as sit, stay, come, and heel. Utilize positive reinforcement techniques, rewarding good behavior with treats and praise. Socialization is crucial, so expose them to various environments, people, and other animals to ensure they develop into well-rounded companions.
Training Challenges
- •Stubbornness during training sessions
- •High prey drive leading to distractions
- •Sensitivity to harsh training methods
- •Difficulty in maintaining focus for extended periods
- •Socialization issues with unfamiliar dogs
Training Resources
Great Dane Training Guide
Borzoi Training Guide
Find Breeders
Find Great Dane Breeders
Find Borzoi Breeders
Local Search Tips
When looking for a reputable breeder in your area, consider these approaches:
- 1.
Contact local veterinarians for breeder recommendations - They often know reputable breeders who prioritize health testing and proper care.
- 2.
Join breed-specific clubs in your area - These communities can provide valuable connections and insights about responsible breeders.
- 3.
Attend local dog shows to meet breeders - This gives you the opportunity to see their dogs and discuss breeding practices in person.