English Springer Spaniel vs Rhodesian Ridgeback

Sporting · Medium vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 50–55 lbs for the English Springer Spaniel.
  • The English Springer Spaniel typically lives longer (12–14 years).

Side-by-side traits

TraitEnglish Springer SpanielRhodesian Ridgeback
Group
SportingHound
Size
MediumLarge
Origin
EnglandZimbabwe
Height (male)
19–21"25–27"
Height (female)
18–20"24–26"
Weight (male)
50–55 lbs85 lbs
Weight (female)
40–50 lbs70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–14 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.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Moderate (3/5)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
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
mediumshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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About the English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a friendly, playful, obedient gundog — bred to spring game from cover for the hunter's net or gun. Originally from England, this medium sporting breed typically weighs 50–55 lbs and lives 12–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, playful, obedient.

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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English Springer Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections
  • Phosphofructokinase deficiency

Rhodesian Ridgeback health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Bloat