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Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Comparison – Which dog is better Chrysanthemum Dog or African Lion Hound?

"Find similarities and differences between Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback" Compare Shih Tzu and Rhodesian Ridgeback. Which is better: Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback?
 
 
 
Name Shih Tzu Rhodesian Ridgeback
OriginsChina flagChina Zimbabwe flagZimbabwe
Group Companion Dogs Hunting Dogs
Popularity Rank2041
Reviews166
User Ratings

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

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Size and Weight Comparison

Size
Which dog is bigger, Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Is the Shih Tzu bigger than the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed? Is a Shih Tzu smaller than a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Small Large
Weight
Which is heavier, Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback weight comparison:
9–16 pounds (4-7 kg) Male: 80-90 pounds (36-41 kg), Female: 65-75 pounds (29-34 kg)
Average Weight
Which dog has a smaller / higher average weight?
9–16 pounds (5.5 kg) Male: 85 pounds (38.5 kg), Female: 70 pounds (31.5 kg)
Height
Which is taller, Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Is a Shih Tzu taller than a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
8-11 inches (20-28 cm) Male: 25-27 inches (63-69 cm), Female: 24-26 inches (61-66 cm)
Average Height
Which dog has a smaller / higher average height?
9.5 inches (24 cm) Male: 26 inches (66 cm), Female: 25 inches (63.5 cm)

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Price and Availability Comparison

Price
Which is cheaper, Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Which is more expensive? What is the difference in price between Shih Tzu and Rhodesian Ridgeback?
$800-$1200 $900-$1200
Availability
Which is easier to get, Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Very frequent: The Shih Tzu is quite easy to get.
Very frequent: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is quite easy to get.

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Trainability and Intelligence Comparison

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

Temperament
Which one has a better personality? Which is a better family dog, Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback behavior/temperament comparison:
Active
Playful
Happy
Courageous
Intelligent
Friendly
Outgoing
Lively
Gentle
Dignified
Sensitive
Intelligent
Loyal
Strong
Willed
Mischievous
Sensitivity Level
Which dog is more sensitive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Shih Tzu dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed.
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They are a little bit more sensitive than other dog breeds.
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Affection Level
Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?
High: Shih Tzu dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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High: Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are genuinely loyal, soft and gentle, loving, and affectionate dogs toward their handlers.
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Social Needs
Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback social needs comparison:
Shih Tzu dogs need a lot of social interaction.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback 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 Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Shih Tzu dogs tend to escape less than other breeds.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have high wanderlust potential, which means that this breed has a strong desire for exploring the world.
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Prey Drive
Which dog has a higher prey drive? What's the difference between Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback? Which can be better for hunting?
Shih Tzu dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have a high impulse to chase and catch something.
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Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Activity and Playfulness Comparison

Playfulness
Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback playfulness comparison:
Shih Tzus are not the most playful dog breed.
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The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a playful breed.
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Barking
Which dog barks more/less: Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?
A lot: Shih Tzu is a particularly loud breed.
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Low to Average: The Rhodesian Ridgeback rarely barks.
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Apartment Friendly
Which dog is more apartment friendly Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Very house-friendly dog the Shih Tzu breed.
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.

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Adaptability and Independence Comparison

Adaptability
Which dog has a higher adaptability potential? Which is the better dog?
Shih Tzu dogs adapt very well to lifestyle changes and basically all living environments.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
Which dog can be left alone: Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Shih Tzu dogs tend to have separation anxiety when their owners left them alone at home because they bond very closely with them.
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.

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Bite Characteristics Comparison

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

Between 100 and 200 PSI 🔽

Shih Tzu bite force: Weak.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Rhodesian Ridgeback bite force: Ordinary.
Biting Potential
Is a Shih Tzu more dangerous than a Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of biting somebody.

Low 🔽

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

Health Issues
Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback health comparison. Which is the healthier: Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?
The Shih Tzu is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback 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: Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback? What are the allergies, genetic diseases and concerns for them? Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback health problems comparison:
Hip Dysplasia
Patellar Luxation
Allergies
Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA)
Umbilical Hernias
Ear Infections
Distichiasis
Portosystemic Liver Shunt
Bladder Stones
Ectopic Cilia
Reverse Sneezing
Dry Eye
Proptosis
Juvenile Renal Dysplasia
Keratitis
Retained Baby Teeth
Snuffles
Hip Dysplasia
Dermoid Sinus
Elbow Dysplasia
Veterinarian Visits
Which one may need more or less veterinary visits: Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Average
The Shih Tzu should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Average
The Rhodesian Ridgeback should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year.
Life Expectancy
Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback lifespan comparison. How long do Shih Tzu and Rhodesian Ridgeback breeds live? Which one has a longer lifespan/life expectancy? What is the age limit of the Shih Tzu and Rhodesian Ridgeback?
10-16 years
The average lifespan of Shih Tzu: 13 years
10-12 years
The average lifespan of Rhodesian Ridgeback: 11 years
Weather and Climate
Which dog is best for hot or cold weather: Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?
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.

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Energy and Activity Comparison

Energy Level
Who has more energy a Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback energy level comparison:
Shih Tzu dogs have a lower energy level than other dogs.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback exercise need comparison. Which dog needs more activity? Which dog needs the most exercise: Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Which dog needs the most walking? Which dog is the laziest?
Shih Tzu dogs exercise need is minimal.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs need quite a lot of exercise.
Sleeping Need
Which one sleeps the least/most: Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Shih Tzu dogs like sleeping so they do sleep a lot.
Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are quite energetic dogs and they don't spend too much time with sleeping.

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Diet and Weight Management Comparison

Average daily food consumption
Which dog eats more: Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Does the Shih Tzu breed eat more than the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed?
Recommended daily amount: 1/2 to 1 cup of high-quality dry food a day. Recommended daily amount: 2 3/4 to 4 3/8 cups of a high-quality daily, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
Which dog breed is more prone to obesity? Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback weight gain potential comparison:
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Shih Tzu's weight, he can easily gain weight.
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Average: The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an average risk for obesity.
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Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Allergies and Grooming Comparison

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat/fur do they have? Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback coat comparison:
Dense Dense
Colors
What are the original Shih Tzu and Rhodesian Ridgeback color? Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback color comparison:
Black
Red
Blue
Silver
Brindle
Liver
Gold
Gray
Red
White
Golden
Wheaten
Copper
Grooming
Which dog is easy to maintain, Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback grooming comparison:
Professional: This breed needs a lot of work to keep in good condition.
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Effortless: The Rhodesian Ridgeback requires minimal grooming.
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Shedding Level
Who sheds more Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? Do Shih Tzu dogs shed more than Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs?
Shih Tzu dogs shed none to minimal.
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Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs shed none to minimal.
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Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
Which dog should be bathed more: Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback?
4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
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4-6 weeks
Average. Experts recommended at least every 4-6 weeks for this family pup.
See more.
Hypoallergenic
Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback hypoallergenic comparison. Which dog is hypoallergenic or not?
Yes See more. No See more.
Stinkiness
Which dog breed smells the least? Which dog smells the most? Which is best, Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Low 🔽

The Shih Tzu has a low chance of bad smell.

Medium

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

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

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback 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.
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Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog.
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Therapy Dog
Which one could be a therapy dog: Shih Tzu or Rhodesian Ridgeback? 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.
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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: Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Not really

Shih Tzu breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
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Not really

Rhodesian Ridgeback breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.
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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.
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Not really

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

Not really

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

Yes

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

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback 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.
See more.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy.
See more.
Litter Size
How many puppies can Shih Tzu and Rhodesian Ridgeback have? Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback litter size comparison:
2-5 puppies 6-8 puppies

Shih Tzu vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Recognition Comparison

AKC Group
Which dog is recognized by the AKC?
Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1969 as a Toy breed. Recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1955 as a Hound breed.
FCI Group
Which dog is recognized by the FCI?
Recognized by FCI in the Companion and Toy Dogs group, in the Tibetan breeds section. Recognized by FCI in the Scent hounds and related breeds group, in the Related breeds 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
United Kennel Club
Canadian Canine Registry
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

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