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Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Comparison – Which dog is better African Lion Hound or Hovie?

"Find similarities and differences between Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart" Compare Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart. Which is better: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?
 
 
 
Name Rhodesian Ridgeback Hovawart
OriginsZimbabwe flagZimbabwe Germany flagGermany
Group Hunting Dogs Guard Dogs
Popularity Rank41375
Reviews62
User Ratings

Other Names
What other names do they have?
African Lion Hound
African Lion Dog
Hovie
Breed Type
Which dog is purebred or crossbreed? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart breed type comparison:
Purebred Purebred

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Size and Weight Comparison

Size
Which dog is bigger, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback bigger than the Hovawart breed? Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback smaller than a Hovawart?
Large Large
Giant
Weight
Which is heavier, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart weight comparison:
Male: 80-90 pounds (36-41 kg), Female: 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg) 55 - 90 pounds (25 - 51 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
Male: 85 pounds (38.5 kg), Female: 70 pounds (31.5 kg) 55 - 90 pounds (25 - 51 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback taller than a Hovawart?
Male: 25-27 inches (63-69 cm), Female: 24-26 inches (61-66 cm) 23 - 28 inches (58 - 70 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
Male: 26 inches (66 cm), Female: 25 inches (63.5 cm) 23 - 28 inches (58 - 70 cm)

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Price and Availability Comparison

Price
Which is cheaper, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Which is more expensive? What is the difference in price between Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart?
$900-$1200 $1000-$1200
Availability
Which is easier to get, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?
Very frequent: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is quite easy to get.
Average: The Hovawart is a commonly available dog breed.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

Intelligent Rank
Which dog has more intelligence? Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart smarter? Which is best? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart intelligence:
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it.
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Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it.
See more.
Trainability
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart trainability comparison. What's the difference between Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Hovawart dogs are easy to train.
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Watchdog Ability
Which is the better watchdog: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are average watchdogs.
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Hovawart dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
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Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Which is a better guard dog Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Which dog is most likely to protect its owner? Which is the best dog to use for protection?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs strongly protect their territory.
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Hovawart dogs are extremely protective guard dogs.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Personality and Temperament Comparison

Temperament
Which one has a better personality? Which is a better family dog, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart behavior/temperament comparison:
Dignified
Sensitive
Intelligent
Loyal
Strong
Willed
Mischievous
Active
Devoted
Outright
Tempered
Watchful
Reserved
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
See more.
Hovawart dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
See more.
Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
High: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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Average to High: Hovawart dogs are highly affectionate dogs.
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Social Needs
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart social needs comparison:
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are a social breed.
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Hovawart dogs are a social breed.
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Impulse to Wander or Roam
Which dog has a greater roaming instinct? What's the difference between Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
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Hovawart dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
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Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart? Which can be better for hunting?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something.
See more.
Hovawart dogs have an average prey drive, which means that they don't have a high impulse to chase and catch something like a cat or any other small aminals, but it might happen.
See more.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Playfulness
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart playfulness comparison:
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a playful breed.
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Average: Hovawarts, like any other dog breed, like playing.
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Barking
Which dog barks more/less: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
Low to Average: The Rhodesian Ridgeback rarely barks.
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Low to Average: The Hovawart rarely barks.
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Apartment Friendly
Which dog is more apartment friendly Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?
It is not the best choice if you want to keep them indoors, however, with careful exercise and several walks a day, they will tolerate the indoor environment, so it is possible to keep Rhodesian Ridgeback indoors.
Not an apartment-friendly dog the Hovawart breed.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Adaptability
Which dog has a higher adaptability potential? Which is the better dog?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
Hovawart dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
Which dog can be left alone: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.
Hovawart dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Bite Characteristics Comparison

Bite Force PSI
Which bite is stronger: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Rhodesian Ridgeback bite force: Ordinary.

Above 400 PSI 🔼

Hovawart bite force: The Strongest.
Biting Potential
Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback more dangerous than a Hovawart?

Low 🔽

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Hovawart has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthiness
Which is the better dog? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart mouthiness comparison:
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
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Hovawart dogs have a low tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Health and Lifespan Comparison

Health Issues
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart health comparison. Which is the healthier: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
The Hovawart is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Health Problems
Which one has more or less genetic/health problems: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart health problems comparison:
Hip Dysplasia
Dermoid Sinus
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Underactive Thyroid
Veterinarian Visits
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
Average
The Rhodesian Ridgeback should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Average
The Hovawart should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Life Expectancy
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart lifespan comparison. How long do Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart breeds live? Which one has a longer lifespan/life expectancy? What is the age limit of the Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart?
10-12 years
The average lifespan of Rhodesian Ridgeback: 11 years
10-14 years
The average lifespan of Hovawart: 12 years
Weather and Climate
Which dog is best for hot or cold weather: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
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Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Level
Who has more energy a Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart energy level comparison:
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds.
Hovawart dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs need quite a lot of exercise.
Hovawart dogs have an average exercise need.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping.
Hovawart dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Average daily food consumption
Which dog eats more: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Does the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed eat more than the Hovawart breed?
Recommended daily amount: 2 3/4 to 4 3/8 cups of a high-quality daily, divided into two meals. 3 to 4 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
Which dog breed is more prone to obesity? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart weight gain potential comparison:
Average: The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an average risk for obesity.
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Average: The Hovawart has an average risk for obesity.
See more.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat/fur do they have? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart coat comparison:
Dense Silky
Colors
What are the original Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart color? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart color comparison:
Gray
Red
White
Golden
Wheaten
Copper
Black
Blonde
Golden
Grooming
Which dog is easy to maintain, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart grooming comparison:
Effortless: The Rhodesian Ridgeback requires minimal grooming.
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Easy to groom: The Hovawart doesn't require a lot of grooming.
See more.
Shedding Level
Who sheds more Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs shed more than Hovawart dogs?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs shed none to minimal.
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Hovawart dogs shed moderately.
See more.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
Which dog should be bathed more: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
2-3 weeks
Frequent. This breed has high-maintenance hair and may require a bath every 2-3 weeks.
See more.
Hypoallergenic
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart hypoallergenic comparison. Which dog is hypoallergenic or not?
No See more. No See more.
Stinkiness
Which dog breed smells the least? Which dog smells the most? Which is best, Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?

Medium

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an average chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Hovawart has an average chance of bad smell.
Drooling Tendency
Which dog drools the most? Which dog drools the least? What's the difference between Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
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The Hovawart is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Good With Comparison

Pet Friendly
Which dog breeds get along well with other animals/pets?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs usually don’t get on well with other pets.
Hovawart dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Which dog is more stranger friendly Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Which dog is more friendly?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Hovawart dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Child Friendly
Which dog is more child/kid friendly Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Hovawart dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
Which dog is more cat friendly Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are not the most cat-friendly dogs.
Hovawart dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Which dog is more dog friendly Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Can a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Hovawart be friends? Do Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs get along with Hovawart dogs?
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are not the most dog-friendly dogs.
Hovawart dogs are dog-friendly dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Which dog is best for first time owners: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?
Yes
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Yes
Hovawart dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Which one fits better in the office?
No
Rhodesian Ridgeback is not the best dog breed for office environment.
No
Hovawart is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Which dog is good for elderly people?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are one of the best breeds for elderly people.
Hovawarts are usually recommended for elderly people.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart As a Working Dog Comparison

Service Dog
Which one could be a service dog?

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
See more.
Therapy Dog
Which one could be a therapy dog: Rhodesian Ridgeback or Hovawart? Which is better for autism?

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
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Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.
Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Which one could be a detection/sniffer dog?

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases.
Search and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Which one could be a search and rescue dog?

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog.
Boat and Sailor Dog
Which one could be a boat dog: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart?

Not really

Rhodesian Ridgeback breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.

Not really

Hovawart breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
See more.
Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Which one could be a cart pulling or drafting dog?

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.

Yes

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling.
See more.
Fighting Dog / Military Dog

Yes

In history, this breed was unfortunately used for combat dogs.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Reproducibility Comparison

Gestation Length 60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Litter Frequency

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
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Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.
Litter Size
How many puppies can Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart have? Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart litter size comparison:
6-8 puppies 6-8 puppies

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Recognition Comparison

AKC Group
Which dog is recognized by the AKC?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1955 as a Hound breed. Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Which dog is recognized by the FCI?
Recognized by FCI in the Scent hounds and related breeds group, in the Related breeds section. Recognized by FCI in the Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs group, in the Molossian type section.
Breed Recognition
What other organizations and kennel clubs recognize these dog breeds?
American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
Rhodesian Ridgeback Club Of The US
American Canine Registry
America's Pet Registry
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
Foundation Stock Service

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