A Detailed Comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle.

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Rhodesian Ridgeback Versus Sheepadoodle: Introduction

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

Furthermore, we will let you know which one of the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle 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 Rhodesian Ridgeback and for the Sheepadoodle. 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 Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle.

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

Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Sheepadoodle

Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Sheepadoodle: Overview

Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle are similar in size. The Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle are both large-sized dogs.

Furthermore, 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.

On the other hand, the Sheepadoodle belongs to the Mixed Breed Dogs group. Mixed Breed Dogs are not purebred dogs.

Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Sheepadoodle: Comparison Table

The table below compares the Rhodesian Ridgeback to the Sheepadoodle 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 Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle

FactorRhodesian RidgebackSheepadoodle
Adapts Well To Apartment Living1/54/5
Does NOT Drool5/55/5
Does NOT Bark or Howl5/54/5
Life Span10 to 12 years12 to 15 years
Good For Novice Owners2/54/5
Tolerates Being Alone2/52/5
Easy To Train2/53/5
Height24 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder16 to 22 inches
Tolerates Cold Weather3/54/5
Tolerates Hot Weather3/53/5
Friendly Toward Strangers3/54/5
Potential NOT to Gain Weight3/52/5
Does NOT chew on things3/53/5
Easygoing2/51/5
Kid-Friendly4/55/5
Dog Friendly4/54/5
Does NOT Shed2/55/5
General Health4/54/5
Intelligence4/55/5
NOT Rambunctious2/52/5
Calmness/ Low Vigor2/53/5
Affectionate With Family5/55/5
Easy To Groom5/53/5
Low Prey Drive1/55/5
Tendency NOT to Wander1/54/5
Minimal Exercise Needs1/52/5
Potential For Playfulness5/55/5
Weight70 to 85 pounds60 to 80 pounds
Average Lifespan11.0 years13.5 years
Average Price$1620$1910
Price Range$1250 – $1900$1471 – $2300
Common Health Problems and Recommended Health Tests
  • Autoimmune thyroiditis
  • Cardiac Evaluation
  • Congenital Deafness
  • Elbow Dysplasia
  • Eye Examination. Exams are recommended annually to age 9, annual recertifcation is required
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • No Data

    Next, we added the scores of the factors that can be added together for the Rhodesian Ridgeback 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 Sheepadoodle. 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 Rhodesian Ridgeback is 74 out of 125 while the Better-Pet score for the Sheepadoodle is 91 out of 125.

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

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

    Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Sheepadoodle

    The Most Remarkable Differences Between the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle

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

  • Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not adapt well to apartment living. However, Sheepadoodles adapt well to apartment living.
  • Rhodesian Ridgebacks shed. They are not recommended for people with dog allergies. However, Sheepadoodles do not shed a lot. They are good for people with dog allergies.
  • Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a high prey drive. They do not get along well with other pets. However, Sheepadoodles have a very low prey drive. This means they get along well with other pets.
  • Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a high tendency to wander. They are easily distracted by other animals or objects. However, Sheepadoodles do not have the potential to wander after things that capture their attention. They tend to stay around where you leave them.
  • The Similarities Between the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle

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

  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle do not have the tendency to drool.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle are not very vocal. They have very low tendency to bark and howl.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle do not like to be left alone.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle are not easy to train.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle 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 Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle get along well with kids. They are kid-friendly.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle get along well with other dogs.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle are very healthy. They do not suffer from a lot of health problems compared to other dog breeds
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle are highly intelligent.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle have very high energy levels. They need a lot of exercise time to release their high energy.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle do things with high intensity. They can be very forceful.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle are great family dogs. They are very affectionate with family.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle require a lot of exercise. They are good for owners who like to exercise.
  • Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Sheepadoodle are very playful.
  • Size (Weight and Height) of Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Sheepadoodle

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

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

    On the other hand, Sheepadoodles weigh 60 to 80 pounds when fully grown. Sheepadoodles are 16 to 22 inches when fully grown.

    Lifespan of Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Sheepadoodle

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

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

    Sheepadoodles live longer than Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

    Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Sheepadoodle

    Price of Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Price of Sheepadoodle

    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 a Rhodesian Ridgeback can be as low as $500 and as high as $2850. We obtained this price information by reviewing the prices of 175 Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The average price of the Sheepadoodle puppy is $1910. The price of the Sheepadoodle typically ranges from $1471 – $2300. However, the price of the Sheepadoodle can be as low as $600 and as high as $5500. We obtained this price information by collecting and reviewing the prices of 356 Sheepadoodle puppies listed for sale from various sources.

    The Sheepadoodle is more expensive than the Rhodesian Ridgeback.

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    Rhodesian Ridgeback Sheepadoodle
    Average Price $1620 $1910
    Price Range $1250 to $1900 $1471 to $2300

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

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

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

    A breakdown of the prices of Sheepadoodles

    A breakdown of the prices of Sheepadoodles

    Note that a lot of factors determine how much you can expect to pay for the Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy or the Sheepadoodle 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.

    Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Sheepadoodle

    Tolerates Being Alone: Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Sheepadoodle

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not like to be left alone.

    Sheepadoodles do not like to be left alone.

    Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks shed more than Sheepadoodles?

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

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

    Which one drools more, the Rhodesian Ridgeback or the Sheepadoodle

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do have a very low tendency to drool.

    Sheepadoodles do have a very low tendency to drool.

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

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very easy to groom.

    Sheepadoodles are moderately easy to groom.

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

    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.

    Sheepadoodles 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.

    Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks Bark and Howl? What about Sheepadoodles?

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

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

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

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks can moderately tolerate cold weather.

    Sheepadoodles can very well tolerate cold weather.

    Wanderlust Potential: Rhodesian Ridgeback vs. Sheepadoodle

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

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

    Can Rhodesian Ridgebacks Tolerate Hot Weather? Can Sheepadoodles Tolerate Hot Weather?

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

    Sheepadoodles can tolerate hot weather as long as the weather is not too hot.

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

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks get along very well with other dogs.

    Sheepadoodles get along very well with other dogs.

    Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good family dogs? What about Sheepadoodles?

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

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

    How Kid-friendly are Rhodesian Ridgebacks and Sheepadoodles?

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

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

    Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback Easier to Train than the Sheepadoodle?

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not easy to train.

    Sheepadoodles are fairly easy to train.

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

    Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not adapt well to apartment living.

    Sheepadoodles adapt very well to apartment living.

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

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

    Sheepadoodles are very good for new dog owners.

    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 Sheepadoodle vs Black Mouth Cur.
  • Bracco Italiano (80 percent match with Rhodesian Ridgeback). Here is our comparison of the Sheepadoodle vs Bracco Italiano.
  • Other Dog Breeds That are Similar to the Sheepadoodle

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

  • Standard Poodle (77 percent match with Sheepadoodle). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Standard Poodle.
  • Portuguese Water Dog (78 percent match with Sheepadoodle). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Portuguese Water Dog.
  • Schnoodle (77 percent match with Sheepadoodle). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Schnoodle.
  • Bernedoodle (79 percent match with Sheepadoodle). Here is our comparison of the Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Bernedoodle.
  • Other Breed Comparisons that Might Interest You

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

    Rhodesian Ridgeback Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Brittany     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Spinone Italiano     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus West Highland White Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Pomeranian     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Clumber Spaniel     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Bedlington Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Whoodle     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Dalmatian     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Standard Schnauzer     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Braque du Bourbonnais     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Tibetan Spaniel     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Entlebucher Mountain Dog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Catahoula Leopard Dog     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Shihpoo     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Saint Bernard     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Spinone Italiano     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Barbet     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Chorkie     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Miniature Pinscher     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Stabyhoun     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Tibetan Terrier     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Cocker Spaniel     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Flat-Coated Retriever     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Cavapoo     Rhodesian Ridgeback versus Akbash     

    Sheepadoodle Versus Other Dog Breeds

    Sheepadoodle versus Treeing Walker Coonhound     Sheepadoodle versus American Water Spaniel     Sheepadoodle versus Irish Wolfhound     Sheepadoodle versus American Foxhound     Sheepadoodle versus Spanish Mastiff     Sheepadoodle versus American Pit Bull Terrier     Sheepadoodle versus Lagotto Romagnolo     Sheepadoodle versus Field Spaniel     Sheepadoodle versus Portuguese Water Dog     Sheepadoodle versus German Longhaired Pointer     Sheepadoodle versus Glen of Imaal Terrier     Sheepadoodle versus Pyrenean Shepherd     Sheepadoodle versus German Wirehaired Pointer     Sheepadoodle versus Boykin Spaniel     Sheepadoodle versus Dogue de Bordeaux     Sheepadoodle versus Shetland Sheepdog     Sheepadoodle versus Shih Tzu     Sheepadoodle versus Bernese Mountain Dog     Sheepadoodle versus Lhasapoo     Sheepadoodle versus Bordoodle     Sheepadoodle versus Berger Picard     Sheepadoodle versus Puli     Sheepadoodle versus Wirehaired Pointing Griffon     Sheepadoodle versus Bernedoodle     Sheepadoodle versus Greyhound     

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