Bernese Mountain Dog vs Rhodesian Ridgeback
Breed Compatibility
87% Compatible
Energy Level
Bernese Mountain Dog: Energetic0.8
Rhodesian Ridgeback: Regular Exercise0.6
Moderately Compatible
Trainability
Bernese Mountain Dog: Easy Training0.8
Rhodesian Ridgeback: Independent0.4
Moderately Compatible
Grooming Needs
Bernese Mountain Dog: 2-3 Times a Week Brushing0.6
Rhodesian Ridgeback: Weekly Brushing0.4
Very Compatible
Cost Category
Premium
Premium
Very Compatible
Compatibility with Others
Good with Children
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Rhodesian Ridgeback5/5
Good with Other Dogs
Bernese Mountain Dog5/5
Rhodesian Ridgeback3/5
Good with Strangers
Bernese Mountain Dog4/5
Rhodesian Ridgeback3/5
Living Requirements
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
Health & Care Comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation issue
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint development problem
Cancer: Higher than average risk
Bloat: Gastric torsion risk
Von Willebrand's Disease: Blood clotting
Progressive Retinal Atrophy: Vision loss
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Hip Dysplasia: Joint malformation
Dermoid Sinus: Skin condition
Elbow Dysplasia: Joint issues
Thyroid Problems: Hormone imbalance
Eye Issues: Various conditions
Heart Problems: Cardiac concerns
Pros & Cons Comparison
Bernese Mountain Dog
Pros
Gentle and patient with children
Loyal family companion
Good working dog capabilities
Excellent guard dog instincts
Cons
Short lifespan
Heavy shedding
Heat sensitivity
Significant grooming needs
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Pros
Loyal and protective
Low grooming needs
Athletic and enduring
Good with families
Cons
Strong prey drive
Independent nature
Needs extensive exercise
Can be stubborn
Bernese Mountain Dog Fun Fact
Despite their size, Bernese Mountain Dogs were historically known as 'cheese dogs' for helping transport dairy products.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Fun Fact
The distinctive ridge on their back contains hair growing in the opposite direction to their coat.
Heritage & Purpose
Bernese Mountain Dog
Origin:
Swiss farmers in the canton of Bern relied on these dogs for drafting, droving cattle, and guarding property during the 1800s. Their versatile working abilities made them invaluable.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Origin:
Developed in southern Africa during the 1800s to hunt lions and other big game. These dogs protected homesteads and tracked large predators across vast territories.
Special Considerations
Bernese Mountain Dog
Regular brushing needed to manage heavy shedding. Exercise must be moderated in warm weather. Joint health supplements recommended throughout life.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Ridge requires specific grooming attention. High prey drive necessitates secure fencing. Early socialization and consistent training essential for balanced temperament.
Related Comparisons
Same Group
Bernese Mountain Dog vs Boxer →Similar Size
Bernese Mountain Dog vs Borzoi →