Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Chinese Shar-Pei

Hound · Large vs Non-Sporting · Medium

Quick take
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 45–60 lbs for the Chinese Shar-Pei.
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback typically lives longer (10–12 years).
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Chinese Shar-Pei sheds less.
  • The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitRhodesian RidgebackChinese Shar-Pei
Group
HoundNon-Sporting
Size
LargeMedium
Origin
ZimbabweChina
Height (male)
25–27"18–20"
Height (female)
24–26"18–20"
Weight (male)
85 lbs45–60 lbs
Weight (female)
70 lbs45–60 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years8–12 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
Very Low (1/5)Very Low (1/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Low (2/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)Very High (5/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)High (4/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
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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.

About the Chinese Shar-Pei

The Chinese Shar-Pei is a loyal, calm, independent wrinkly Chinese guardian — hippopotamus-faced ancient farm and palace dog. Originally from China, this medium non-sporting breed typically weighs 45–60 lbs and lives 8–12 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, calm, independent.

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Rhodesian Ridgeback health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Bloat

Chinese Shar-Pei health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Eye problems
  • Skin issues
  • Allergies