Borzoi vs Golden Retriever
Discover the differences between Borzoi and Golden Retriever to make the best choice for your situation.
Try different breeds

Borzoi
Graceful and elegant with a gentle nature, the Borzoi is calm indoors yet loves to sprint outdoors. Loyal and sensitive, this breed forms strong bonds with its family.

Golden Retriever
A loving, intelligent breed with an easygoing nature and playful spirit. Known for loyalty and adaptability, making them exceptional companions for families of all kinds.
Quick comparison
Large
34–48 kg
Silky, long
7–10 years
25–41 kg
Moderately active
Large
29–34 kg
Double coat, water-repellent
10–12 years
25–29 kg
High energy
Personality & behavior
Compare the personality traits and behavioral characteristics of both breeds.
Borzoi
Gentle and polite, usually reserved with strangers
Learns quickly, independent problem solver
Moderate energy, enjoys regular exercise
Not very playful, prefers calm activities
Adjusts to change but values routine
Golden Retriever
Very sociable, enjoys people and other dogs
Quick to learn commands and routines
Needs regular activity and mental stimulation
Loves games and interactive activities
Adjusts well to various living environments
Care needs
Exercise, grooming, and daily care requirements
Borzoi
Bloat, cardiac issues
Golden Retriever
Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia
Suitability
How well each breed fits different living situations and families
Borzoi
Challenging for beginners
Sensitive and independent, Borzois may be difficult for new owners to manage
Moderate option
Quiet indoors, but needs space for regular exercise
Good companion
Enjoys daily walks but not overly energetic or demanding
Not ideal
Sensitive and reserved, may not tolerate rough handling from young children
Cautiously compatible
Can coexist with other pets if raised together, but has strong prey drive
Poor fit
Dislikes being left alone for long periods and may develop anxiety
Golden Retriever
Great choice
Friendly, trainable nature makes them easy for new owners to manage
Needs space
Large size and high energy can be challenging in small apartments
Highly suitable
Enjoys regular exercise and outdoor activities with active people
Perfect fit
Gentle temperament and patience make them excellent with young children
Very friendly
Generally sociable and gets along well with other pets
Prone to anxiety
Dislikes being left alone for extended periods and may develop separation issues
Breed strengths
What each breed excels at and their best qualities
Borzoi
- Graceful and elegant physical presence
- Quiet and gentle indoor demeanor
- Loyal and affectionate with family
- Low tendency for excessive barking
- Generally healthy with proper care
Golden Retriever
- Friendly with children and other pets
- Highly trainable and eager to please
- Consistent, gentle temperament in most settings
- Reliable as therapy and assistance dogs
- Strong retrieving and swimming abilities
Challenges & considerations
Potential challenges and considerations for each breed
Borzoi
- Strong prey drive towards small animals
- Sensitive to harsh training methods
- Prone to separation anxiety if left alone
- Requires daily exercise and safe running space
- Heavy seasonal shedding and grooming needs
Golden Retriever
- Prone to obesity without portion control
- High shedding year-round requires regular grooming
- Needs ample daily exercise to prevent boredom
- Can develop separation anxiety when left alone
- Susceptible to certain genetic health conditions
Ready to choose your perfect breed?
Learn more about each breed or compare other breeds to find the perfect match for your lifestyle.
Discover more helpful tools
Make use of our other free tools to get the most out of your pet experience