A Detailed Comparison of the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

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Japanese Spitz Versus Rhodesian Ridgeback: Introduction

Are you thinking of getting a new pet dog, and you have narrowed down your choices to the Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz or the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

Japanese Spitz versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

Japanese Spitz versus Rhodesian Ridgeback: Overview

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

Furthermore, the Japanese Spitz belongs to the Companion Dogs group. Companion Dogs were bred to be companions for humans. Their main goal in life is to be with people, and they will be very sad if left to themselves for long hours day after day.

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.

Japanese Spitz versus Rhodesian Ridgeback: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback

Factor Japanese Spitz Rhodesian Ridgeback
Does NOT Drool 5/5 5/5
Height 10 to 16 inches 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder
Life Span 10 to 16 years 10 to 12 years
Weight 11 to 20 pounds 70 to 85 pounds
Tolerates Being Alone 2/5 2/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 2/5 3/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 4/5 3/5
Does NOT chew on things 4/5 3/5
Low Prey Drive 4/5 1/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 4/5 1/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 4/5 2/5
Easygoing 3/5 2/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 3/5 3/5
Does NOT Shed 3/5 2/5
General Health 3/5 4/5
NOT Rambunctious 3/5 2/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 3/5 1/5
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 4/5 1/5
Good For Novice Owners 4/5 2/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 4/5 3/5
Affectionate With Family 4/5 5/5
Dog Friendly 4/5 4/5
Easy To Groom 4/5 5/5
Easy To Train 4/5 2/5
Intelligence 4/5 4/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 2/5 5/5
Potential For Playfulness 4/5 5/5
Kid-Friendly 5/5 4/5
Average Lifespan 13.0 years 11.0 years
Average Price $1600 $1620
Price Range $1500 – $2000 $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 Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz is 90 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Rhodesian Ridgeback is 74 out of 125.

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

    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 Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback so that you can make your own well-informed decision on which pet to get.

    Japanese Spitz versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback

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

  • Japanese Spitzs have a very low prey drive. This means they get along well with other pets. However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a high prey drive. They do not get along well with other pets.
  • Japanese Spitzs 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.
  • Japanese Spitzs adapt well to apartment living. However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not adapt well to apartment living.
  • Japanese Spitzs are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl. However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not very vocal. They have very low tendency to bark and howl.
  • The Similarities Between the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback

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

  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback do not like to be left alone.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are not very friendly towards strangers.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are not prone to gaining weight easily.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are not prone to nip and chew at things.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback can tolerate cold weather.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback get along well with other dogs.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are very easy to groom.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are very playful.
  • Both the Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Japanese Spitz versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

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

    Japanese Spitzs weigh 11 to 20 pounds when fully grown. Japanese Spitzs are 10 to 16 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 Japanese Spitz versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    The lifespan of Japanese Spitzs is between 10 to 16 years. The average lifespan of Japanese Spitzs is 13.0 years.

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

    Japanese Spitzs live longer than Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

    Japanese Spitz versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Price of Japanese Spitz versus Price of Rhodesian Ridgeback

    The average price of the Japanese Spitz puppy is $1600. The price of the Japanese Spitz typically ranges from $1500 – $2000. However, the price of a Japanese Spitz can be as low as $800 and as high as $2200. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 5 Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz.

    Japanese Spitz Rhodesian Ridgeback
    Average Price $1600 $1620
    Price Range $1500 to $2000 $1250 to $1900

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

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

    A breakdown of the prices of Japanese Spitzs. 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 Japanese Spitz 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.

    Japanese Spitz versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Tolerates Being Alone: Japanese Spitz versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Japanese Spitzs do not like to be left alone.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not like to be left alone.

    Do Japanese Spitzs shed more than Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Japanese Spitzs shed moderately.

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

    Which one drools more, the Japanese Spitz or the Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Japanese Spitzs do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Which is Easier to Groom, the Japanese Spitz or the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Japanese Spitzs are very easy to groom.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very easy to groom.

    Does the Japanese Spitz Have a Higher Prey Drive than the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Japanese Spitzs have a very low prey drive. This means they get won`t chase after smaller pets. They tend to get along well with other 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 Japanese Spitzs Bark and Howl? What about Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Japanese Spitzs are highly vocal. They have the tendency to bark and howl.

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

    Can Japanese Spitzs Tolerate Cold Weather? And can Rhodesian Ridgebacks Tolerate Cold Weather?

    Japanese Spitzs can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks can moderately tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Japanese Spitz vs. Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Japanese Spitzs 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 Japanese Spitzs Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Rhodesian Ridgebacks Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Japanese Spitzs can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

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

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

    Japanese Spitzs get along very well with other dogs.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Japanese Spitzs good family dogs? What about Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Japanese Spitzs 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 Japanese Spitzs and Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Japanese Spitzs get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.

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

    Is the Japanese Spitz Easier to Train than the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Japanese Spitzs are very easy to train.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not easy to train.

    Is the Japanese Spitz Better for Apartment Owners than the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Japanese Spitzs adapt very well to apartment living.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not adapt well to apartment living.

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

    Japanese Spitzs 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 Japanese Spitz

    Furthermore, there are other dog breeds that are very similar to the Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz:

  • Bergamasco Sheepdog (79 percent match with Japanese Spitz). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Bergamasco Sheepdog.
  • Bordoodle (81 percent match with Japanese Spitz). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Bordoodle.
  • Dutch Shepherd (79 percent match with Japanese Spitz). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Dutch Shepherd.
  • 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 Japanese Spitz vs Black Mouth Cur.
  • Bracco Italiano (80 percent match with Rhodesian Ridgeback). Here is our comparison of the Japanese Spitz vs Bracco Italiano.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

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

    Japanese Spitz Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Japanese Spitz versus Collie     Japanese Spitz versus Azawakh     Japanese Spitz versus German Shepherd Dog     Japanese Spitz versus Saint Berdoodle     Japanese Spitz versus American Pit Bull Terrier     Japanese Spitz versus Central Asian Shepherd Dog     Japanese Spitz versus French Bulldog     Japanese Spitz versus Appenzeller Sennenhunde     Japanese Spitz versus American Staffordshire Terrier     Japanese Spitz versus Pembroke Welsh Corgi     Japanese Spitz versus Irish Water Spaniel     Japanese Spitz versus King Shepherd     Japanese Spitz versus German Pinscher     Japanese Spitz versus Golden Retriever     Japanese Spitz versus Brussels Griffon     Japanese Spitz versus Bluetick Coonhound     Japanese Spitz versus Harrier     Japanese Spitz versus Greyhound     Japanese Spitz versus Cockapoo     Japanese Spitz versus Havanese     Japanese Spitz versus Carolina Dog     Japanese Spitz versus Tibetan Terrier     Japanese Spitz versus Boxerdoodle     Japanese Spitz versus Norfolk Terrier     Japanese Spitz versus American Bulldog     

    Rhodesian Ridgeback Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Akita     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Flat-Coated Retriever     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Portuguese Water Dog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Redbone Coonhound     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Miniature Poodle     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Bergamasco Sheepdog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Black and Tan Coonhound     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Shiloh Shepherd     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Cesky Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Norwegian Buhund     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Treeing Walker Coonhound     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Neapolitan Mastiff     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Dutch Shepherd     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Cockapoo     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Petit Basset Griffon Vendeen     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Shichon     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Appenzeller Sennenhunde     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Cockapoo     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus French Bulldog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Stabyhoun     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Weimaraner     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Whoodle     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Black Russian Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Miniature Schnauzer     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Soft Coated Wheaten Terrier     

    Conclusion: Japanese Spitz 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 Japanese Spitz and the Rhodesian Ridgeback better suits you and your family.