Lhasa Apso vs Rhodesian Ridgeback

Non-Sporting · Small vs Hound · Large

Quick take
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 12–18 lbs for the Lhasa Apso.
  • The Lhasa Apso typically lives longer (12–15 years).
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Lhasa Apso sheds less.
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitLhasa ApsoRhodesian Ridgeback
Group
Non-SportingHound
Size
SmallLarge
Origin
TibetZimbabwe
Height (male)
10–11"25–27"
Height (female)
10–11"24–26"
Weight (male)
12–18 lbs85 lbs
Weight (female)
12–18 lbs70 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
12–15 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.
Low (2/5)High (4/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Very Low (1/5)Moderate (3/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very High (5/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Very Low (1/5)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)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.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Coat length
longshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
YesNo
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About the Lhasa Apso

The Lhasa Apso is a confident, smart, comical Tibetan monastery sentinel — small but feels like a big dog inside. Originally from Tibet, this small non-sporting breed typically weighs 12–18 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as confident, smart, comical.

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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Lhasa Apso health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Eye disorders
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Skin issues
  • Kidney disease

Rhodesian Ridgeback health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Bloat