Norwegian Elkhound vs Rhodesian Ridgeback
Hound · Medium vs Hound · Large
Norwegian ElkhoundMedium
A friendly, dignified, confident Viking elk-hunting Spitz — Norway's national breed for over 6,000 years.
Weight: 55 lbsLifespan: 12–15 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 55 lbs for the Norwegian Elkhound.
- • The Norwegian Elkhound typically lives longer (12–15 years).
- • The Rhodesian Ridgeback sheds less.
- • The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally more trainable.
Side-by-side traits
| Trait | Norwegian Elkhound | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
Group | Hound | Hound |
Size | Medium | Large |
Origin | Norway | Zimbabwe |
Height (male) | 19.5–20.5" | 25–27" |
Height (female) | 18–19" | 24–26" |
Weight (male) | 55 lbs | 85 lbs |
Weight (female) | 48 lbs | 70 lbs |
Lifespan Average expected lifespan. | 12–15 years | 10–12 years |
Energy level Daily activity needs. | High (4/5) | 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. | High (4/5) | High (4/5) |
Shedding Lower = less hair around your home. | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Grooming effort Brushing, bathing, professional grooming. | Low (2/5) | 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 | Very High (5/5) | High (4/5) |
Good with other dogs | High (4/5) | Moderate (3/5) |
Good with strangers | Moderate (3/5) | 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 | medium | short |
Hypoallergenic Lower-shedding, less dander. | No | No |
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About the Norwegian Elkhound
The Norwegian Elkhound is a friendly, dignified, confident Viking elk-hunting Spitz — Norway's national breed for over 6,000 years. Originally from Norway, this medium hound breed typically weighs 55 lbs and lives 12–15 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, dignified, confident.
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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Norwegian Elkhound health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Progressive retinal atrophy
- • Hypothyroidism
Rhodesian Ridgeback health
Common health concerns reported in this breed:
- • Hip dysplasia
- • Elbow dysplasia
- • Dermoid sinus
- • Bloat