Weimaraner vs Rhodesian Ridgeback Comparison. Which dog is better for you: Weim or African Lion Hound?

Compare the Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback breeds to identify their similarities and differences. Are you trying to decide between a Weim or a African Lion Hound? Read on to determine which breed is the better fit for you

Differences only

Other names

Weim, Grey Ghost, Weimaraner Vorstehhund

African Lion Hound, African Lion Dog

Weight

What is the average weight of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback?

80.0 pounds ( 36 kg )

Height

What is the average height of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback

26.0 inches ( 66 cm )

Weight Gain Potential

Which breed eats more: Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Weimaraner has average obesity risk, needs balanced diet, daily walks, and weight monitoring.

Rhodesian Ridgeback has average risk of obesity, needs daily walks and quality diet to maintain healthy weight.

Hypoallergenic

Are Weimaraners or Rhodesian Ridgebacks hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Weimaraner nor Rhodesian Ridgeback are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs?

Alert
Energetic
Intelligent
Steady
Social
Aloof
Fast
Powerful
Stubborn

Dignified
Loyal
Sensitive
Intelligent
Mischievous
Strong
Willed

Shedding Level

Do Weimaraners shed more than Rhodesian Ridgebacks, or which breed sheds more, Weimaraners or Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

Weimaraners are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks shed very little hair, making them a great choice for those who dislike excess hair in the house.

Watchdog Ability

Which dog breed makes a better watchdog, the Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

The Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, these breeds will alert their owner.

Origin

What is the origin of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback dog breeds?

Germany

South Africa

Ancestry

What are the origins of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback breeds?

Gun Dog, Hunting Dog

african tribal dog, dane, mastiff, bloodhound, pointer, greyhound, terrier

Breed recognition

Which kennel clubs recognize/register Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback?

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

Date of Birth

When were Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback breeds first developed?

1800s

Breed Group

What is the Breed Group of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Sporting (AKC:1943)
Gundogs (UKC)

Hound (AKC:1955)
Sighthounds & pariahs (UKC)

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs?

Hazel
Amber

Brown
Amber

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Blue
Black

Black
Brown

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback breeds?

Gray
Silver

Fawn
Red

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback breeds?

The coat of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs ranges in length from short to medium.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback?

10-12 puppies per pregnancy

Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback, can have a litter of 10-12 puppies each on average. Nonetheless, it's important to keep in mind that litter size can differ significantly between individual dogs. Various factors such as the mother's health, breeding history, and genetics can have an impact on litter size.

Adaptability

Weimaraners are highly adaptable and versatile, making them excellent companions for families and individuals of all lifestyles.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for their adaptability and can adjust well to different environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback, which breed is more prone to health problems?

The Weimaraner is prone to health issues and requires regular check-ups with a vet to identify and treat any problems early.

While the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed is generally healthy, occasional vet check-ups are still necessary to address any health concerns.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback breeds?

Hip Dysplasia
Hypothyroidism

Dermoid Sinus
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Bloat

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Entropion
Elbow Dysplasia
Cherry Eye
Sebaceous Adenitis
Urolithiasis
Bloat
Hemophilia A
Tricuspid Valve Dysplasia
Hypodysmyelinogenesis

Entropion
Deafness
Cataracts
Hypothyroidism
Degenerative Myelopathy

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback breeds?

Eye
Hip
Blood
Liver Ultrasound
Blood And Urine Protein Screens
Skeletal
Skin Scraping
X-Rays
Eye Examination
Physical Examination

Hip
Hearing
Breeder Check For Dermoid Sinus
Skeletal
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Energy

How do the energy levels of Weimaraners and Rhodesian Ridgebacks compare?

Weimaraners thrive on an active lifestyle due to their high-energy nature.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks' high energy levels make them unsuitable for a low-key dog, choose accordingly.

Social Needs

Weimaraner vs Rhodesian Ridgeback social needs comparison

Weimaraner has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

Rhodesian Ridgeback has above average social needs and thrives with interaction with humans and other dogs.

Exercise Needed

Weimaraner vs Rhodesian Ridgeback exercise need comparison.

Weimaraners need high physical activity and are ideal for active individuals, but not suitable for sedentary lifestyles or small apartments.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks require significant physical activity and suit those with an active lifestyle.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Weimaraners are active and require sufficient sleep to stay healthy.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks sleep less than other breeds but still need adequate sleep for good health.

Drooling Tendency

Which drools more/less, Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Weimaraner drools quite a bit, consider a different breed if drool is unappealing.

Rhodesian Ridgeback minimally drools, ideal for those who dislike drool marks on clothing.

Tendency to Bark

Do Weimaraners or Rhodesian Ridgebacks bark more/less frequently?

The Weimaraner is a vocal breed that frequently barks and howls, and may not be suitable for those seeking a quiet companion.

Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are generally less vocal than other breeds and only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner or communicate.

Territorial

Is the Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback a better guard dog?

While Weimaraner dogs can defend their territory or owners, it's not their primary trait, and they are not ideal guard dogs.

Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs have a strong protective nature and territorial instinct. They are highly vigilant and will fiercely defend their home and family.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Weimaraner vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Roaming urge

Weimaraner vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

Prey Drive

Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

Past times

What are some enjoyable activities and ways to keep Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback entertained?

Walking, Puppy playtime, Running, Sniffing, Hiking, Playing fetch, Chase, Fetch, Walk, Run, Sniff, Catch treats, Digging, Searching, Casual walking, Cuddels, Belly sraching

Fetch, Eating Snacks, Walk, Run, Playing, Tug-of-war, Running, Sniffing, Jumping, Walking, Get massages, Facial kisses, Wandering, Catch treats, Play, Zoomies, Go get it, Everything, Cuddling, Walks, Swimming

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Weimaraners or Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

High

Weimaraners are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Medium

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Tolerance of being left alone

Walks per Week

How many miles should Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback walk each week?

14 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Weimaraner, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

10 miles / week

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Rhodesian Ridgeback, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Weimaraners or Rhodesian Ridgebacks require more exercise?

90 minutes

In general most Weimaraners usually need at least 90 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

60 minutes

In general most Rhodesian Ridgebacks usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Weimaraners or Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback are breeds of dogs that do not require extensive grooming.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs?

Weekly

Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback should be brushed at least once a week. Of course, you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Weimaraners and Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

Slicker Brush
Nail Clipper

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback in cups?

3 cups

For an average 70-90 pound (32 - 41 kg) Weimaraner feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

2.8 cups

For an average 79-85 pound (36 - 39 kg) Rhodesian Ridgeback feed 2.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

$1.70 - $2.00 / day

The average cost of a Weimaraner is somewhere $1.70 - $2.00 per day.

$2.10 - $2.70 / day

The average cost of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

$48 - $63 / month

The average per month expenses of a Weimaraner is between $48 - $63. This makes an average of $576 - $756 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

$55 - $73 / month

The average per month expenses of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Intelligence

Comparing Intelligence: Weimaraners vs Rhodesian Ridgebacks

Weimaraner is a very intelligent and trainable breed.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are average in obedience intelligence but have a high IQ and may cause trouble if left unsupervised.

Sensitivity Level

How do Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback compare in sensitivity?

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Affection Dependance

Which is the more affectionate dog breed: Weimaraner vs Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

The Weimaraner is not suitable for apartments and requires a large yard to thrive. Pent-up energy in small spaces can lead to destructive behavior.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good apartment dogs as long as they get enough exercise and stimulation outside of the apartment.

Child Friendly

Do Weimaraners or Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a friendlier temperament towards children?

Weimaraners are not the best choice for families with kids.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Cat Friendly

Do Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

Weimaraners are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are somewhat cat friendly and can be trained to get along with cats.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Weimaraners are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs interact with other pets?

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Weimaraner or Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Weimaraners are friendly but may bark at strangers, and training is easy due to their intelligence.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are quick to announce strangers and can be standoffish or suspicious.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Weimaraner and Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Weimaraners are very playful, so adopting an older one might be a better option for a more relaxed experience.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a playful breed that needs daily playtime to be happy.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Weimaraners and Rhodesian Ridgebacks compare?

Weimaraners are popular for their ease of training and quick learning ability.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are usually easy to train but require consistency to fully obey commands.