Airedale Terrier vs Rhodesian Ridgeback

Terrier · Large vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 50–70 lbs for the Airedale Terrier.
  • The Airedale Terrier typically lives longer (11–14 years).
  • The Airedale Terrier sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAiredale TerrierRhodesian Ridgeback
Group
TerrierHound
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
EnglandZimbabwe
Height (male)
23"25–27"
Height (female)
22"24–26"
Weight (male)
50–70 lbs85 lbs
Weight (female)
40–55 lbs70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–14 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
wirehairedshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Airedale Terrier

The Airedale Terrier is a friendly, clever, courageous 'King of Terriers' — the largest of the terrier clan from Yorkshire. Originally from England, this large terrier breed typically weighs 50–70 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, clever, courageous.

About the Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an affectionate, dignified, even-tempered African lion-hunter with a backward ridge of fur down its spine. Originally from Zimbabwe, this large hound breed typically weighs 85 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, dignified, even-tempered.

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Airedale Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Skin issues

Rhodesian Ridgeback health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Bloat