Compare breeds
British Shorthair vs Russian Blue
British Shorthair
Short
Russian Blue
Short
Choose the British Shorthair if you want…
- a family with children
- a home with other pets
- a quieter companion
- a calmer companion
Choose the Russian Blue if you want…
- a dog or cat that learns quickly
- less hair around the house
- an active companion for long walks and play
Side by side
| Trait | British Shorthair | Russian Blue |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Medium |
| Weight | 4–8 kg (9–18 lb) | 3–5.5 kg (7–12 lb) |
| Height | 30–36 cm (12–14 in) | 23–28 cm (9–11 in) |
| Life span | 12–17 years | 15–20 years |
| Origin | United Kingdom | Russia |
| Energy | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Trainability | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with children | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 3/5 |
| Suits a flat | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 3/5 | 2/5 |
| Grooming needs | 1/5 | 1/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 1/5 | 2/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the British Shorthair or the Russian Blue?
The British Shorthair — typically about 1.4 times the weight. British Shorthair: 4–8 kg (9–18 lb); Russian Blue: 3–5.5 kg (7–12 lb).
Which lives longer, the British Shorthair or the Russian Blue?
The Russian Blue, on average. British Shorthair: 12–17 years; Russian Blue: 15–20 years.
Is the British Shorthair or the Russian Blue better with children?
The British Shorthair scores higher in our profiles (4 vs 3 out of 5). Always supervise young children with any pet.
Other comparisons
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts