Persian vs Selkirk Rex

Side-by-side comparison of two popular breeds — temperament, exercise, grooming, lifespan and common health issues. Use it to decide which breed fits your home.

Persian vs Selkirk Rex — at a glance

The Persian (3–5 kg, 12–17 years) and the Selkirk Rex (4–7 kg, 14–17 years) sit in different — or sometimes overlapping — corners of dog ownership. Here's how they really compare for an everyday Irish or UK family.

Selkirk Rex is the significantly higher-energy dog of the two. If you can't commit to 60+ minutes of active exercise daily plus mental stimulation, the Persian is the lower-friction choice.

Both have manageable grooming routines — the Persian demands slightly more, but neither needs daily fuss.

If you have young children, the Selkirk Rex is the clearly more child-friendly choice.

For a first-time owner, the Selkirk Rex is much more forgiving than the Persian.

Insurance premiums for breeds with brachycephalic, joint or cancer predispositions run 20–40% above average — check before you commit. We have a free quote calculator here.

	Persian	Selkirk Rex
Group	Long Hair	Long Hair
Origin	Persia (modern Iran)	United States
Weight	3–5 kg	4–7 kg
Height	25–38 cm	20–25 cm
Lifespan	12–17 years	14–17 years
Energy level
Trainability
Grooming needs
Good with kids
Good with other pets
Hypoallergenic
Watchdog instinct
Novice-owner OK

Persian

Temperament

Quiet, gentle, dignified, low-energy. Persians prefer calm households, attach to one or two people, and are generally undemonstrative.

Exercise

Very low. A few short play sessions a day. They're mostly sedentary indoor cats.

Grooming

Daily brushing is non-negotiable — long fine hair mats within days. Bathe every 4–6 weeks. Wipe facial folds and tear stains daily.

Health

Polycystic kidney disease (DNA test essential). Brachycephalic airway issues. Eye conditions (entropion, tear duct issues). Skin fold dermatitis. Heat sensitivity.

Full Persian profile →