A Detailed Comparison of the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

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Kooikerhondje Versus Rhodesian Ridgeback: Introduction

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

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

Kooikerhondje versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

Kooikerhondje versus Rhodesian Ridgeback: Overview

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

Furthermore, the Kooikerhondje belongs to the Sporting Dogs group. Sporting Dogs were bred to help hunters catch and retrieve feathered game. Some sporting dog breeds such as Retrievers, which were built for swimming, were bred to hunt waterfowl in water. Whereas sporting dog breeds like setters, spaniels, and pointing breeds were bred to hunt quail, pheasant, and other game birds nest on grasslands. Many Sporting Group breeds have thick, water-repellent coats that protect them from harsh hunting conditions.

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.

Kooikerhondje versus Rhodesian Ridgeback: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Kooikerhondje 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 Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback

Factor Kooikerhondje Rhodesian Ridgeback
Does NOT Drool 5/5 5/5
Easy To Train 1/5 2/5
Life Span 12 to 14 years 10 to 12 years
Height 14 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder 24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder
Tolerates Being Alone 2/5 2/5
Kid-Friendly 2/5 4/5
Dog Friendly 2/5 4/5
Friendly Toward Strangers 2/5 3/5
Easy To Groom 2/5 5/5
Weight 20 to 25 pounds 70 to 85 pounds
Good For Novice Owners 3/5 2/5
Tolerates Hot Weather 3/5 3/5
Affectionate With Family 3/5 5/5
Does NOT Shed 3/5 2/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight 3/5 3/5
Does NOT chew on things 3/5 3/5
Low Prey Drive 3/5 1/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl 3/5 5/5
Tendency NOT to Wander 3/5 1/5
Adapts Well To Apartment Living 4/5 1/5
Easygoing 2/5 2/5
Tolerates Cold Weather 4/5 3/5
Intelligence 4/5 4/5
NOT Rambunctious 2/5 2/5
Potential For Playfulness 4/5 5/5
General Health 5/5 4/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor 1/5 2/5
Minimal Exercise Needs 1/5 1/5
Average Lifespan 13.0 years 11.0 years
Price Range No Data $1250 – $1900
Average Price No Data $1620
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 Kooikerhondje 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 Kooikerhondje is 70 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Rhodesian Ridgeback is 74 out of 125.

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

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

    Kooikerhondje versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback

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

  • Kooikerhondjes require a lot of grooming and are not very easy to groom. However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very easy to groom.
  • Kooikerhondjes adapt well to apartment living. However, Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not adapt well to apartment living.
  • The Similarities Between the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback

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

  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are not easy to train.
  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback do not like to be left alone.
  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are not very friendly towards strangers.
  • Both the Kooikerhondje 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 Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback can tolerate cold weather.
  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are very playful.
  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback are very healthy. They do not suffer from a lot of health problems compared to other dog breeds
  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback do things with high intensity. They can be very forceful.
  • Both the Kooikerhondje and the Rhodesian Ridgeback require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Kooikerhondje versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

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

    Kooikerhondjes weigh 20 to 25 pounds when fully grown. Kooikerhondjes are 14 to 16 inches tall at the shoulder 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 Kooikerhondje versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    The lifespan of Kooikerhondjes is between 12 to 14 years. The average lifespan of Kooikerhondjes 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.

    Kooikerhondjes live longer than Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

    Kooikerhondje versus Rhodesian Ridgeback
    Kooikerhondje versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Tolerates Being Alone: Kooikerhondje versus Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Kooikerhondjes do not like to be left alone.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not like to be left alone.

    Do Kooikerhondjes shed more than Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Kooikerhondjes shed moderately.

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

    Which one drools more, the Kooikerhondje or the Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Kooikerhondjes do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do have a very low tendency to drool.

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

    Kooikerhondjes require a lot of grooming and they are not very easy to groom.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very easy to groom.

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

    Kooikerhondjes 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 Kooikerhondjes Bark and Howl? What about Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Kooikerhondjes bark and howl, but not very much.

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

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

    Kooikerhondjes can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks can moderately tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Kooikerhondje vs. Rhodesian Ridgeback

    Kooikerhondjes have a moderate tendency to wander. This means that they sometimes get distracted by other animals or objects.

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

    Can Kooikerhondjes Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Rhodesian Ridgebacks Tolerate Hot Weather?

    Kooikerhondjes 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 Kooikerhondje or the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Kooikerhondjes do not get along well with other dogs.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Kooikerhondjes good family dogs? What about Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Kooikerhondjes are good family dogs. They are affectionate with family.

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

    How Kid-friendly are Kooikerhondjes and Rhodesian Ridgebacks?

    Kooikerhondjes do not get along well with kids. They are not kid-friendly.

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

    Is the Kooikerhondje Easier to Train than the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

    Kooikerhondjes are not easy to train.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not easy to train.

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

    Kooikerhondjes adapt very well to apartment living.

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not adapt well to apartment living.

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

    Kooikerhondjes are OK for new dog owners.

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

    Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Kooikerhondje

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

  • Lakeland Terrier (75 percent match with Kooikerhondje). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Lakeland Terrier.
  • Lhasapoo (75 percent match with Kooikerhondje). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Lhasapoo.
  • 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 Kooikerhondje vs Black Mouth Cur.
  • Bracco Italiano (80 percent match with Rhodesian Ridgeback). Here is our comparison of the Kooikerhondje vs Bracco Italiano.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

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

    Kooikerhondje Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Kooikerhondje versus Norwegian Lundehund     Kooikerhondje versus American Staffordshire Terrier     Kooikerhondje versus King Shepherd     Kooikerhondje versus Lancashire Heeler     Kooikerhondje versus Scottish Deerhound     Kooikerhondje versus Carolina Dog     Kooikerhondje versus Cavapoo     Kooikerhondje versus Coton de Tulear     Kooikerhondje versus Belgian Malinois     Kooikerhondje versus Schipperke     Kooikerhondje versus Havanese     Kooikerhondje versus Dutch Shepherd     Kooikerhondje versus Westiepoo     Kooikerhondje versus Portuguese Pointer     Kooikerhondje versus Boxer     Kooikerhondje versus Leonberger     Kooikerhondje versus Pomchi     Kooikerhondje versus Bordoodle     Kooikerhondje versus Cavachon     Kooikerhondje versus Shihpoo     Kooikerhondje versus Alaskan Malamute     Kooikerhondje versus Labrador Retriever     Kooikerhondje versus Kai Ken     Kooikerhondje versus American Bulldog     

    Rhodesian Ridgeback Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Golden Retriever     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Lakeland Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Icelandic Sheepdog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Patterdale Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Goldador     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Pointer     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Brittany     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Lakeland Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Caucasian Shepherd Dog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Canaan Dog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Lhasa Apso     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Maremma Sheepdog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Saint Bernard     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Maltese     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Norwegian Buhund     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Swedish Vallhund     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Miniature Schnauzer     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Norwegian Lundehund     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Akita     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Glen of Imaal Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Boston Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Scottish Deerhound     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Chorkie     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus English Setter     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Shih Tzu     

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