A Detailed Comparison of the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

by

Quick Links: Table of Contents

Cockalier Versus Rhodesian Ridgeback: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback? Well, you have come to the right place. Because in this article, we will provide you with a detailed comparison of these two dog breeds to help you decide which of the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback better suits you.

We will provide you a detailed discussion and comparison of dog attributes such as intelligence, price, general health, friendliness, etc, for both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback is better suited for new dog owners, for owners with kids, for owners that live in apartments, for owners with dog allergies, etc.

Importantly, we did some analysis and calculation and we obtained a number that we call the Better-Pet Score™ for both the Cockalier and for the Rhodesian Ridgeback. The dog breed with the higher Better-Pet score is the `better` pet. We hope that these Better-Pet Scores will provide you with more insight into deciding which pet to get between the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Our only goal here is to help you make a well-thought-out decision on your next long-term companion, be it the Cockalier or the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Cockalier versus Rhodesian Ridgeback: Overview

A very important difference between the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback is the size difference between the two dog breeds. The Cockalier is a small-sized dog while the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large-sized dog.

Furthermore, the Cockalier belongs to the Mixed Breed Dogs group. Mixed Breed Dogs are not purebred dogs.

On the other hand, the Rhodesian Ridgeback belongs to the Hound Dogs group. Hound Dogs were bred to pursue and hunt warm-blooded animals. Hounds hunt by using their good sight or their good sense of smell. Dogs that belong to the Hound Group have strong prey drives and often will stop at nothing to catch what they are pursuing.

Cockalier versus Rhodesian Ridgeback: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Cockalier to the Rhodesian Ridgeback based on different important factors such as Price, Health, Kid-friendliness, etc.

When a dog breed scores higher for a factor than the other dog breed, the box of the breed that scores higher is shaded green and the box of the breed that scores lower is shaded red. When there is no difference between the breeds for a particular factor then the box is shaded gray for both pets. Also, when the factor is not important in picking a pet, or when the factor cannot be compared between two pets, the box for the factor is shaded gray for both pets

Most of the factors in the table for each dog breed are ranked on a scale of 1 to 5. “1” means “worst”, and “5” means “best”.

However, some factors such as “Price”, “Average Lifespan”, etc. cannot be on a scale of 1 to 5, so they are not on a scale of 1 to 5 in the comparison table.

Later in this article, we will further explain each factor as it applies to the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback

Factor Cockalier Rhodesian Ridgeback
Does NOT Drool 5/5 5/5
Weight 10 to 28 pounds 70 to 85 pounds
Height 12 to 15 inches 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder
Life Span 12 to 15 years 10 to 12 years
Tolerates Being Alone 2/5 2/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 2/5 3/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 2/5 3/5
Does NOT Shed 4/5 2/5
Does NOT chew on things 4/5 3/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 4/5 5/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 4/5 1/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 4/5 2/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 3/5 3/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 3/5 3/5
Low Prey Drive 3/5 1/5
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 4/5 1/5
Good For Novice Owners 4/5 2/5
Easygoing 2/5 2/5
Dog Friendly 4/5 4/5
Easy To Groom 4/5 5/5
General Health 4/5 4/5
Easy To Train 4/5 2/5
Intelligence 4/5 4/5
NOT Rambunctious 2/5 2/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 2/5 1/5
Affectionate With Family 5/5 5/5
Kid-Friendly 5/5 4/5
Potential For Playfulness 5/5 5/5
Average Lifespan 13.5 years 11.0 years
Average Price $1370 $1620
Price Range $938 – $1800 $1250 – $1900
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests No Data
  • Autoimmune thyroiditis
  • Cardiac Evaluation
  • Congenital Deafness
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Examination. Exams are recommended annually to age 9, annual recertifcation is required
  • Hip Dysplasia
    		•

    Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Cockalier in the table (that is, `Ease of Grooming` score + `General Health` score + `Calmness` score + …etc) and we compared it to the corresponding total score for the Rhodesian Ridgeback. We call these total scores the Better-Pet Scores, as we mentioned earlier. We called this score the Better-Pet score because the better dog breed will have a higher score. This is because the pet will the higher score will have minimal needs and be easier to have as a pet.

    The Better-Pet score for the Cockalier is 89 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Rhodesian Ridgeback is 74 out of 125.

    Based on their Better-Pet scores, the Cockalier is a better pet than the Rhodesian Ridgeback. So, you should get the Cockalier!

    Although we have done our best to analyze these two dog breeds in a very unbiased way, however, we will like to let you know that there are some dog attributes that cannot be assigned a number for comparison. We cannot put a number on how cute a dog breed is, for example. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

    Also, the dog breed that best suits you will depend on your peculiar lifestyle, your taste, and your priorities, which we do not know. So, for you to decide on which breed is right for you, read through the rest of the article to further understand both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Below is a list of where the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are most different:

  • Cockaliers do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them. However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.
  • Cockaliers adapt well to apartment living. However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not adapt well to apartment living.

    • The Similarities Between the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback

    The Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are very similar in certain aspects. Below is the list of where the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are most similar:

  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback do not like to be left alone.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback cannot tolerate cold weather. They are vulnerable to the cold.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback cannot tolerate hot weather. They are not suited for hot environments.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are not prone to nip and chew at things.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are not very vocal. They have very low tendency to bark and howl.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are easily disturbed by noise in their environments. They are sensitive to human tone. They will understand the tone of your voice when you try to correct their behaviors with a firm tone.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback get along well with other dogs.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are very easy to groom.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are very healthy. They do not suffer from a lot of health problems compared to other dog breeds
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
  • Both the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are very playful.

    • Size (Weight and Height) of Cockalier versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Now, let us discuss the difference in size between the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

    Cockaliers weigh 10 to 28 pounds when fully grown. Cockaliers are 12 to 15 inches when fully grown.

    On the other hand, Rhodesian Ridgebacks weigh 70 to 85 pounds when fully grown. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder when fully grown.

    Lifespan of Cockalier versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    The lifespan of Cockaliers is between 12 to 15 years. The average lifespan of Cockaliers is 13.5 years.

    The lifespan of Rhodesian Ridgebacks is between 10 to 12 years. The average lifespan of Rhodesian Ridgebacks is 11.0 years.

    Cockaliers live longer than Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

    Price of Cockalier versus Price of Rhodesian Ridgeback

    The average price of the Cockalier puppy is $1370. The price of the Cockalier typically ranges from $938 – $1800. However, the price of a Cockalier can be as low as $600 and as high as $2500. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 87 Cockalier puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is $1620. The price of the Rhodesian Ridgeback typically ranges from $1250 – $1900. However, the price of the Rhodesian Ridgeback can be as low as $500 and as high as $2850. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 175 Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Rhodesian Ridgeback is more expensive than the Cockalier.

    Cockalier Rhodesian Ridgeback
    Average Price $1370 $1620
    Price Range $938 to $1800 $1250 to $1900

    The charts below show the price distribution for the Cockalier and Rhodesian Ridgeback. For different price points, the charts show how many Cockalier puppies or how many Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies are listed for sale at those price points.

    A breakdown of the prices of Cockaliers. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Cockaliers. The typical price range is shaded Green.

    A breakdown of the prices of Rhodesian Ridgebacks

    A breakdown of the prices of Rhodesian Ridgebacks

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Cockalier puppy or the Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy. This includes if health screening tests have been performed on the puppy, if the puppy is from a famous pedigree, the US State where the puppy is bred, etc.

    Nevertheless, when looking to buy a puppy, look at buying a puppy only from well-established breeders that breed puppies primarily for the love of dogs, and secondarily for profit. Do not buy a puppy from a puppy mill. Puppy mills mass-produce puppies in bad living conditions for maximum profit.

    You may also consider adopting a dog instead of buying a dog.

    Tolerates Being Alone: Cockalier versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Cockaliers do not like to be left alone.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not like to be left alone.

    Do Cockaliers shed more than Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Cockaliers do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies.

    Which one drools more, the Cockalier or the Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Cockaliers do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Cockalier or the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Cockaliers are very easy to groom.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very easy to groom.

    Does the Cockalier Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Cockaliers have a moderate prey drive. They can sometimes chase after smaller animals and pets.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a high prey drive. They have the tendency to chase after smaller animals and pets. They do not get along well with other pets.

    Do Cockaliers Bark and Howl? What about Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Cockaliers are not very vocal. They do not tend to bark and howl.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not very vocal. They do not tend to bark and howl.

    Can Cockaliers Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Rhodesian Ridgebacks Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Cockaliers cannot tolerate cold weather. They are vulnerable to the cold.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks can moderately tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Cockalier vs. Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Cockaliers do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects.

    Can Cockaliers Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Rhodesian Ridgebacks Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Cockaliers cannot tolerate hot weather. They are not suited for hot environments.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

    Which Dog Breed is more Dog-Friendly, the Cockalier or the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Cockaliers get along very well with other dogs.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Cockaliers good family dogs? What about Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Cockaliers are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.

    How Kid-friendly are Cockaliers and Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Cockaliers get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

    Is the Cockalier Easier to Train than the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Cockaliers are very easy to train.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not easy to train.

    Is the Cockalier Better for Apartment Owners than the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Cockaliers adapt very well to apartment living.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not adapt well to apartment living.

    Which is Better for New Dog Owners, the Cockalier or the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Cockaliers are very good for new dog owners.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not the best dogs for new dog owners.

    Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Cockalier

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Cockalier that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Cockalier:

  • Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (81 percent match with Cockalier). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel.
  • Cavapoo (80 percent match with Cockalier). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Cavapoo.
  • Shichon (83 percent match with Cockalier). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Shichon.
  • Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier (81 percent match with Cockalier). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier.

    • Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Rhodesian Ridgeback that you can consider on your quest to get the best pet.

    We crunched the numbers and found that the following dog breeds have similar personality and temperament as the Rhodesian Ridgeback:

  • Black Mouth Cur (79 percent match with Rhodesian Ridgeback). Here is our comparison of the Cockalier vs Black Mouth Cur.
  • Bracco Italiano (80 percent match with Rhodesian Ridgeback). Here is our comparison of the Cockalier vs Bracco Italiano.

    • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

    You may also be interested in how the Cockalier and how the Rhodesian Ridgeback compares to other breeds. So, see below the comparison of the Cockalier and of the Rhodesian Ridgeback to other breeds:

    Cockalier Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Cockalier versus Polish Lowland Sheepdog     Cockalier versus Dalmatian     Cockalier versus Pekingese     Cockalier versus Bearded Collie     Cockalier versus Yorkshire Terrier     Cockalier versus Biewer Terrier     Cockalier versus Lagotto Romagnolo     Cockalier versus Dalmatian     Cockalier versus Bergamasco Sheepdog     Cockalier versus Frenchton     Cockalier versus Airedale Terrier     Cockalier versus Frenchton     Cockalier versus Patterdale Terrier     Cockalier versus Lowchen     Cockalier versus Goldendoodle     Cockalier versus Bull Terrier     Cockalier versus Cairn Terrier     Cockalier versus Bedlington Terrier     Cockalier versus Chihuahua     Cockalier versus German Wirehaired Pointer     Cockalier versus German Shorthaired Pointer     Cockalier versus Lhasapoo     Cockalier versus American Eskimo Dog     Cockalier versus Cavapoo     Cockalier versus Irish Wolfhound     

    Rhodesian Ridgeback Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Collie     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Field Spaniel     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Affenpinscher     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus English Setter     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Portuguese Pointer     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus American Staffordshire Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus American Pit Bull Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Belgian Sheepdog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Ibizan Hound     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Cavachon     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Swedish Vallhund     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Beaglier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Airedale Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Border Collie     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Beaglier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Bernese Mountain Dog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Chihuahua     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Gordon Setter     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Pomsky     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Beaglier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Border Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Manchester Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Patterdale Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Akita     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Mountain Cur     

    Conclusion: Cockalier versus Rhodesian Ridgeback. Which One is a Better Pet?

    In summary, there is nothing like a better dog breed or a worse dog breed. The important question to ask is which dog breed better matches your interests and lifestyle. We hope our discussion above will help you in deciding which dog breed between the Cockalier and the Rhodesian Ridgeback better suits you and your family.