Great Dane vs Rhodesian Ridgeback
Working · Giant vs Hound · Large
Great DaneGiant
A friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size.
Weight: 140–175 lbsLifespan: 7–10 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
- • Great Dane is the larger breed at 140–175 lbs (males) vs 85 lbs for the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
- • The Rhodesian Ridgeback typically lives longer (10–12 years).
- • The Rhodesian Ridgeback has higher daily energy needs.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Great Dane | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
Group | Working | Hound |
Size | Giant | Large |
Origin | Germany | Zimbabwe |
Height (male) | 30–32" | 25–27" |
Height (female) | 28–30" | 24–26" |
Weight (male) | 140–175 lbs | 85 lbs |
Weight (female) | 110–140 lbs | 70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 7–10 years | 10–12 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | Moderate (3/5) | 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. | Moderate (3/5) | 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 High (5/5) | 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 | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Protectiveness Watchdog tendencies. | High (4/5) | Very High (5/5) |
Adaptability Apartment / new environment tolerance. | Moderate (3/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Coat length | short | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Great Dane
The Great Dane is a friendly, patient, dependable giant — the 'Apollo of dogs' is sweet-natured despite imposing size. Originally from Germany, this giant working breed typically weighs 140–175 lbs and lives 7–10 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, patient, dependable.
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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Great Dane health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Bloat
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Heart disease
- • Cancer
Rhodesian Ridgeback health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Dermoid sinus
- • Bloat