Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog vs Rhodesian Ridgeback

Herding · Medium vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 35–50 lbs for the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog.
  • The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog has higher daily energy needs.

Side-by-side traits

TraitAustralian Stumpy Tail Cattle DogRhodesian Ridgeback
Group
HerdingHound
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
AustraliaZimbabwe
Height (male)
18–20"25–27"
Height (female)
17–19"24–26"
Weight (male)
35–50 lbs85 lbs
Weight (female)
35–50 lbs70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 years10–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)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
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog

The Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog is an alert, hardy, watchful Australian drover — cousin to the Cattle Dog with a naturally bobbed tail. Originally from Australia, this medium herding breed typically weighs 35–50 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as alert, hardy, watchful.

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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Australian Stumpy Tail Cattle Dog health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Deafness
  • Eye disorders

Rhodesian Ridgeback health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Bloat