Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Weimaraner

Hound · Large vs Sporting · Large

Quick take
  • Rhodesian Ridgeback is the larger breed at 85 lbs (males) vs 70–90 lbs for the Weimaraner.
  • The Weimaraner typically lives longer (11–14 years).
  • The Weimaraner has higher daily energy needs.
  • The Weimaraner sheds less.

Side-by-side traits

TraitRhodesian RidgebackWeimaraner
Group
HoundSporting
Size
LargeLarge
Origin
ZimbabweGermany
Height (male)
25–27"25–27"
Height (female)
24–26"23–25"
Weight (male)
85 lbs70–90 lbs
Weight (female)
70 lbs55–75 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–12 years11–14 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
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)Low (2/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with kids
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Coat length
shortshort
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoNo
Ad slot · compare-mid

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 Weimaraner

The Weimaraner is a friendly, fearless, obedient gundog with a striking silver-grey coat — the 'grey ghost' from Germany. Originally from Germany, this large sporting breed typically weighs 70–90 lbs and lives 11–14 years. Breeders describe them as friendly, fearless, obedient.

Ad slot · compare-bottom

Rhodesian Ridgeback health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Hip dysplasia
  • Elbow dysplasia
  • Dermoid sinus
  • Bloat

Weimaraner health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Bloat
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Von Willebrand's disease