• Hungarian Language
  • English Language

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
Reviews72
User Ratings

Common Names & Aliases
Compare different names used for Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart. What other names are these breeds known by?
African Lion Hound
African Lion Dog
Hovie
Breed Classification
Compare breed classifications between a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Hovawart. Learn about their genetic backgrounds.
Purebred Purebred

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Size and Weight Comparison

Size Classification
Which is bigger: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare size differences between these breeds.
Large Large
Giant
Weight Statistics
Compare weight ranges between a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Hovawart. Which breed is heavier?
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 Range
Compare puppy prices between a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Hovawart. Which breed costs more?
$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

Intelligence Rating
Which is smarter: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare intelligence rankings and learning abilities.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it.
See more.
Average: It takes patience to teach this breed any tricks or commands, but the effort is worth it.
See more.
Training Difficulty
Which is easier to train: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare training requirements.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are quite easy to train.
See more.
Hovawart dogs are easy to train.
See more.
Watchdog Rating
Which makes a better watchdog: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare alertness levels.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are average watchdogs.
See more.
Hovawart dogs are one of the best watchdogs.
See more.
Territorial Protection
Which is more protective: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare territorial behaviors.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs strongly protect their territory.
See more.
Hovawart dogs are extremely protective guard dogs.
See more.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Personality and Temperament Comparison

Personality Traits
Compare personalities of a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Hovawart. How do their temperaments differ?
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.
See more.
Average to High: Hovawart dogs are highly affectionate dogs.
See more.
Social Needs
Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart social needs comparison:
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are a social breed.
See more.
Hovawart dogs are a social breed.
See more.
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.
See more.
Hovawart dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
See more.
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

Barking Frequency
Which breed barks more: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare vocalization tendencies.
Low to Average: The Rhodesian Ridgeback rarely barks.
See more.
Low to Average: The Hovawart rarely barks.
See more.
Playful Nature
Which breed is more playful: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare play drive and energy.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a playful breed.
See more.
Average: Hovawarts, like any other dog breed, like playing.
See more.
Apartment Adaptability
Which is better for apartments: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare living space needs.
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

Lifestyle Adaptability
Which adapts better to changes: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare adaptability levels.
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.
Alone Time Tolerance
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 Risk Assessment
Which has lower bite risk: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare biting tendencies.

Low 🔽

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

The Hovawart has a low chance of biting somebody.
Mouthing Tendency
Which is more mouthy: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare mouthing behaviors.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people.
See more.
Hovawart dogs have a low tendency to nip, chew, play-bite, or herd people.
See more.
Bite Strength Rating
Which has a stronger bite: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare bite force PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Rhodesian Ridgeback bite force: Ordinary.

Above 400 PSI 🔼

Hovawart bite force: The Strongest.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Health and Lifespan Comparison

Average Lifespan
Which lives longer: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare average lifespans.
10-12 years
The average lifespan of Rhodesian Ridgeback: 11 years
10-14 years
The average lifespan of Hovawart: 12 years
Climate Tolerance
Which handles weather better: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare climate tolerances.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur.
See more.
Health Concerns
Compare common health issues between a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Hovawart. Which breed is healthier?
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.
Vet Care Frequency
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.
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

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Rating
Which breed is more energetic: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare activity levels.
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

Obesity Tendency
Which gains weight easier: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare obesity risks.
Average: The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an average risk for obesity.
See more.
Average: The Hovawart has an average risk for obesity.
See more.
Food Consumption
Which eats more: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare daily food needs.
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.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Allergy Friendliness
Which is more hypoallergenic: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare allergy friendliness.
No See more. No See more.
Coat Colors
What color variations exist for Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart? Compare breed colors.
Gray
Red
White
Golden
Wheaten
Copper
Black
Blonde
Golden
Grooming Requirements
Which needs more grooming: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare maintenance needs.
Effortless: The Rhodesian Ridgeback requires minimal grooming.
See more.
Easy to groom: The Hovawart doesn't require a lot of grooming.
See more.
Drooling Tendency
Which drools more: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare drooling amounts.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a perfect example of a very low drooling tendency.
See more.
The Hovawart is a perfect example of a low drooling tendency.
See more.
Stinkiness Rating
Which has less odor: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare natural smell levels.

Medium

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an average chance of bad smell.

Medium

The Hovawart has an average chance of bad smell.
Coat Characteristics
How do coats differ between a Rhodesian Ridgeback and a Hovawart? Compare fur types.
Dense Silky
Bathing Needs
Which needs more baths: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare bathing frequencies.
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.
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.
See more.
Hovawart dogs shed moderately.
See more.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Good With Comparison

Child Compatibility
Which is better with children: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare kid-friendliness.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are very kid-friendly dogs.
Hovawart dogs are kid-friendly dogs.
Pet Compatibility
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.
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 Capability
Which makes a better service dog: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare service capabilities.

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 Work Suitability
Which is better for therapy work: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare therapy capabilities.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog.
See more.
Scent Detection Ability
Which is better at detection work: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare scenting abilities.

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 & Rescue Potential
Which is better for search and rescue: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare SAR abilities.

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.
Maritime Work Ability
Which is better on boats: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare maritime abilities.

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.
Draft Work Capability
Which is better at pulling: a Rhodesian Ridgeback or a Hovawart? Compare draft work capabilities.

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.
Military Service Background
Compare military history between Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart. Which has stronger military background?

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

Puppy Litter Size
Compare litter sizes between Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart. Which has larger litters?
6-8 puppies 6-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
Compare pregnancy duration between Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart breeds.
60-64 days See more. 60-64 days See more.
Breeding Frequency
Compare breeding frequencies between Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart. Which needs longer recovery?

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart Recognition Comparison

AKC Classification
Compare AKC classifications of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart. Which groups do they belong to?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1955 as a Hound breed. Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
Compare FCI classifications of Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart. Which groups are they in?
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.
Kennel Club Recognition
Compare kennel club recognition between Rhodesian Ridgeback and Hovawart. Which is more widely recognized?
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

Rate This Comparsion - Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hovawart

Reviews