Alaskan Malamute vs Rhodesian Ridgeback
Working · Large vs Hound · Large
Alaskan MalamuteLarge
An affectionate, loyal, playful arctic freight dog — bigger and stronger than the Husky, equally fluffy.
Weight: 85 lbsLifespan: 10–14 years
Rhodesian RidgebackLarge
An affectionate, dignified, even-tempered African lion-hunter with a backward ridge of fur down its spine.
Weight: 85 lbsLifespan: 10–12 years
Quick take
- • Alaskan Malamute is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 85 lbs for the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
- • The Alaskan Malamute typically lives longer (10–14 years).
- • The Rhodesian Ridgeback sheds less.
- • The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Alaskan Malamute | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Hound |
Size | Large | Large |
Origin | USA | Zimbabwe |
Height (male) | 25" | 25–27" |
Height (female) | 23" | 24–26" |
Weight (male) | 85 lbs | 85 lbs |
Weight (female) | 75 lbs | 70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–14 years | 10–12 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Moderate (3/5) | High (4/5) |
Intelligence Problem-solving ability. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Exercise needs Daily physical activity required. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Moderate (3/5) | Very Low (1/5) |
Drooling Lower = drier face and furniture. | Very Low (1/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | Moderate (3/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Low (2/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | long | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
Ad slot · compare-mid
About the Alaskan Malamute
The Alaskan Malamute is an affectionate, loyal, playful arctic freight dog — bigger and stronger than the Husky, equally fluffy. Originally from USA, this large working breed typically weighs 85 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as affectionate, loyal, playful.
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.
Ad slot · compare-bottom
Alaskan Malamute health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Cataracts
- • Hypothyroidism
- • Bloat
Rhodesian Ridgeback health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Dermoid sinus
- • Bloat