Golden Retriever vs Rhodesian Ridgeback
Sporting · Large vs Hound · Large
Golden RetrieverLarge
A friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat.
Weight: 65–75 lbsLifespan: 10–12 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
- • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 65–75 lbs for the Golden Retriever.
- • The Golden Retriever has higher daily energy needs.
- • The Rhodesian Ridgeback sheds less.
- • The Golden Retriever is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Golden Retriever | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
Group | Sporting | Hound |
Size | Large | Large |
Origin | Scotland | Zimbabwe |
Height (male) | 23–24" | 25–27" |
Height (female) | 21.5–22.5" | 24–26" |
Weight (male) | 65–75 lbs | 85 lbs |
Weight (female) | 55–65 lbs | 70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 10–12 years | 10–12 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Trainability How quickly the breed learns commands. | Very High (5/5) | 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. | 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. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Barking How vocal the breed is. | Low (2/5) | Low (2/5) |
Good with kids | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | Very High (5/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Very High (5/5) | 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 | medium | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a friendly, intelligent, devoted gundog — the all-American family dog with a golden coat. Originally from Scotland, this large sporting breed typically weighs 65–75 lbs and lives 10–12 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, intelligent, devoted.
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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Golden Retriever health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Cancer
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Skin conditions
Rhodesian Ridgeback health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Dermoid sinus
- • Bloat