Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Shih Tzu
Compare Rhodesian Ridgeback and Shih Tzu side by side and get a clear picture of what sets the breeds apart. Explore differences in size, weight, temperament, activity level, and other key traits to more easily decide which breed best fits your lifestyle and circumstances.
Characteristic
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Shih Tzu
Breed type
Purebred
Purebred
Height
61 – 69 cm
23 – 27 cm
Weight
31 – 36 kg
5 – 8 kg
Life expectancy
9 – 15 years
10 – 16 years
Child friendly
3/5
4/5
Energy level
5/5
2/5
Intelligence
3/5
2/5
Trainability
3/5
4/5
Health
3/5
4/5
Grooming needs
2/5
4/5
Shedding
2/5
2/5
Barking level
2/5
3/5
Aggressiveness
3/5
1/5
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Characteristics
Rhodesian Ridgeback
High energy
Low grooming
Quiet
Large
Shih Tzu
Great with kids
Easy to train
Small
Summary
About Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful, athletic African hunting dog with a distinctive ridge of reverse-growing hair. Loyal and affectionate with family but reserved with strangers, it needs ample daily exercise, consistent positive training, and suits active, experienced owners.
About Shih Tzu
Small, sturdy companion dog from Tibetan and Chinese palaces, 4.5–8 kg with a long, flowing coat and chrysanthemum-like face. Affectionate, cheerful, and confident, it suits many homes. Needs moderate exercise, intensive grooming, and patient, reward-based training.
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