Anatolian Shepherd vs Rhodesian Ridgeback

Working · Giant vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Anatolian Shepherd is the larger breed at 110–150 lbs (males) vs 85 lbs for the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
  • The Anatolian Shepherd typically lives longer (11–13 years).
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback sheds less.
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAnatolian ShepherdRhodesian Ridgeback
Group
WorkingHound
Size
GiantLarge
Origin
TurkeyZimbabwe
Height (male)
29"25–27"
Height (female)
27"24–26"
Weight (male)
110–150 lbs85 lbs
Weight (female)
80–120 lbs70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
11–13 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Moderate (3/5)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.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Anatolian Shepherd

The Anatolian Shepherd is a loyal, independent, reserved livestock guardian from Turkey — works alone protecting flocks from wolves. Originally from Turkey, this giant working breed typically weighs 110–150 lbs and lives 11–13 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, independent, reserved.

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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Anatolian Shepherd health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Bloat

Rhodesian Ridgeback health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Bloat