Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed Comparison

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Pyrenean Mastiff - Breed ComparisonPyrenean Mastiff is originated from Spain but Rhodesian Ridgeback is originated from Zimbabwe. Pyrenean Mastiff may grow 13 cm / 6 inches higher than Rhodesian Ridgeback. Pyrenean Mastiff may weigh 59 kg / 131 pounds more than Rhodesian Ridgeback. Both Pyrenean Mastiff and Rhodesian Ridgeback has same life span. Both Pyrenean Mastiff and Rhodesian Ridgeback has almost same litter size. Both Pyrenean Mastiff and Rhodesian Ridgeback requires Low Maintenance.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Hound dog
undefined
Spain
Zimbabwe
Height Male:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
61 - 69 cm
24 - 28 inches
Height Female:
75 - 82 cm
29 - 33 inches
61 - 69 cm
24 - 28 inches
Weight Male:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
27 - 41 kg
59 - 91 pounds
Weight Female:
70 - 100 kg
154 - 221 pounds
27 - 41 kg
59 - 91 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
10 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
6 - 12
7 - 10
Size:
Giant
Large
Other Names:
None
African Lion Dog
Colors Available:
tan, White with large markings of reddish brown, grey or black.
wheaten, tan, Fawn
Coat:
Longish, thick double coat
Short, smooth, glossy
Shedding:
Moderate, Constant
Minimal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Low Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

History

pyrenean mastiffThe Pyrenean Mastiff originates from Spain, descending from ancient livestock guardian-type dogs.

They have always been used as guardians, looking out for livestock and warding off predators.

When you do research you find that there is little information on the exact origins of the dog. It was only in recent years that the dog was taken out of its native region and sent to the USA, but it isn’t recognized by the AKC.

The dog was however recognized by the FCI in 1982.

rhodesian ridgebackKnown as the African Lion Dog, the courageous Rhodesian Ridgeback hails from Rhodesia, now Zimbabwe.

He was bred essentially to be a hunter as well as a home guardian. These dogs were crossed with European dogs, with the original breed standard being drafted by F.R. Barnes By the 1860s, European colonisers had imported certain European dog breeds to the area such as Greyhound, Terriers, Bloodhounds as well as other breeds. These were mixed with the indigenous African dogs.

The Ridgeback Club was also founded. It was in 1955 that the American Kennel Club recognized the dog as a member of the Hound group.

Description

pyrenean mastiff puppy - descriptionThis is a beautiful big dog, strong and muscular. He stands at between 75 and 82cm in height and weighs between 70 and 100kg, males and females.

He has a thick double coat which is fairly long and which also sheds regularly. The coat is essentially white in color with large markings of reddish brown, tan, grey or black.

The Pyrenean Mastiff has a large head with a black nose, small, dark eyes, floppy, medium sized ears and a long tail with lush hair growth.

Temperament:

Large he may be, but the Pyrenean Mastiff is a docile dog that gets on well with children as well as with other pets. He is intelligent but also strong willed and independent, making him a little bit difficult to handle if he chooses to ignore your commands.

Training and socialization will be required if you want him to be obedient and well mannered. He can do well with you as a novice pet owner, so long as you are firm, consistent, kind, patient and fair in your handling of the Pyrenean Mastiff.

Even with socialization, he tends to be wary around strangers and becomes quite protective around his human family.

He is a calm dog that doesn’t require a whole lot of exercise, but he isn’t suited to life on a small property in the city as he needs a lot of space to feel content and at ease.

rhodesian ridgeback puppy - descriptionPerhaps the most noticeable thing with this large, handsome formidable looking dog is the ridge of hair that runs along his back and gives him his name. The rest of the coat is short and smooth and can be a reddish tan color or wheaten shade.

He is a slender, athletic dog with an alert, intelligent face. The ears of the dog are floppy and carried close to the head, being broad and then narrowing to a rounded ear. The tail is long,broad at the base and tapers. He is a large dog that stands at between 61 and 69cm and weighs between 29 and 41kg.

Temperament:

In spite of his athletic build, he isn’t an overly active dog like many other breeds but will require a walk ever day as well as ball- and rope games.

He is a quiet, gentle dog, strong and confident, while also being strong willed and independent. He is tolerant around children, but isn’t the kind of dog that relishes being around little kids who try to climb over him.

He is smart and can be easily trained. Training and socialization turn him into an awesome pet.

Characteristics

pyrenean mastiff dog - characteristicsThese beautiful dogs have always been extraordinary guarding dogs, but he has some other excellent characteristics that make him such a great companion.

He is a loyal, loving dog and easy to train.

You just have to think twice before you take such a large dog into your home, as he doesn’t like to be cooped up in small spaces. He will also eat a lot too.

You want to know that you can provide the Pyrenean Mastiff with all these things. If you have the means to keep such a large pet, then he will make you a splendid canine companion.

rhodesian ridgeback dog - characteristicsYour Ridgeback is a dignified dog who is devoted to his human family, being aloof around strangers.

He is a territorial dog and takes his job as guard dog seriously. He is confident and independent, and with his good looks, his loyalty and devotion, he is guaranteed to make you a most splendid pet and companion.

Health Problems

pyrenean mastiff puppies - health problemsThis is a fairly healthy dog breed, particularly when you consider what a big dog he is. There are always some health concerns to watch for so that you can take steps to get your pet well again.

Dental Disease:

There is tartar build-up on the teeth and this can lead to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Rotting teeth can cause pain, but more worrisome they can cause damage to the heart and kidneys as well as the dog's joints. The vet or professional pet groomers can keep your pet’s teeth clean. They can advise you on how to take care of your large pet’s teeth.

Bacterial and Viral Infections:

Diseases such as rabies and parvo can be prevented by means of vaccine.

Obesity:

You can’t afford for a big dog like this to become obese. It’s a serious disease and can put pressure on your dog’s joints and also cause back pain and digestive disorders.

Parasites:

Your dog can be infected with all kinds of worms and bugs such as ticks d and fleas as well as mites. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you. Your vet can talk about preventive medication.

Bloat:

Gastric Dilatation and Volvulus, commonly referred to as bloat often occurs in dogs with deep chests.

The stomach twists and fills with gas,and blood to the stomach is cut off. Left unattended to, your dog can die, sometimes within half an hour. His stomach is hard and swollen, requiring immediate veterinary attention.

rhodesian ridgeback puppies - health problemsRhodesian Ridgebacks are generally healthy, robust dogs, but like with all breeds, they can also have their share of some of the common dog illnesses there are.

If you’re buying a puppy, make sure it comes from a good breeder.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a hereditary disease which can become worse because of environmental factors such as rapid growth. The thighbone doesn’t fit properly into the hip joint.

It is sad when you see such a strong dog succumbing to hip dysplasia as it can cause a lot of pain and also make your dog lame. Arthritis can also occur.

Bloat:

For such a life threatening illness with a dog, it is wise to familiarize yourself with an emergency vet in your area. A dog with bloat needs to be rushed to the vet as soon as possible.

That is why it is better to feed your pet smaller meals daily rather than one big meal. Bloat is an ailment where there is rapid accumulation of gas in the stomach.

Dogs with deep chests are at a greater risk of bloat. Typical symptoms of bloat include restlessness, a swollen, hard stomach and trying to vomit.

Canine bloat or gastric dilatation and volvulus is a killer with dogs, with the gas accumulation causing the stomach to twist.

Caring The Pet

Spay or Neuter:

pyrenean mastiff dogs - caringHave your pet spayed or neutered if you don’t want puppies. Spaying or neutering also decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers.

Diet:

Nothing but a top quality diet is good enough for your pet. Commercially manufactured dog foods are a convenient means to feed your pet, and there are some excellent brands.

Look out for the ones for extra large dogs and avoid the ones with low quality ingredients. The dry kibble you give your big pet can be made more tasty when you add some homemade food to it about twice a week.

Dogs thrive on simplicity, so boiled chicken, sweet potatoes, brown rice or pasta, carrots and spinach will be wonderful for him when you chop the food up and add it into the dry kibble. Its such a tasty, wholesome treat for your pet.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will contribute to your pet’s heath. Make sure he is never without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Grooming:

Brush his coat at least twice a week. Check inside his ears for redness which could indicate an ear infection.

He’s an intelligent pet with lots of energy, so you will need to keep his mind and body active by ensuring he enjoys walks every day. He isn’t a dog that requires running with you on your jogs or cycles.

Grooming:

rhodesian ridgeback dogs - caringThe Rhodesian Ridgeback only sheds a little so you can keep him looking good with a brush twice a week.The shiny coat can be maintained by wiping him down with a damp cloth. Look out for any unusual lumps you might find.

He has floppy ears so during your grooming session check inside his ears and make sure they aren’t red. You can suspect an ear infection when you see your Ridgeback shaking his head or scratching his ears.

Check inside your Ridgeback’s mouth too as dogs can’t tell you when they’ve got a rotten tooth that is causing terrible pain and also poisoning their entire system.

Trim his nails too if they don’t wear down naturally.

Diet:

Your large Rhodesian Ridgeback will need good food from you if you want to have less visits to the vet because of illness.

If you have a puppy feed him 4 bowls of food a day, but once your dog is one year of age he can have two bowls of food. Two bowls are better than one as with one bowl, your dog becomes ravenous and gobble his food down. This can lead to bloat.

It is always convenient to feed him one of the top quality commercially manufactured dog foods but he will also need some tasty home-made food too. Boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots are a healthy choice for your pet – plain and simple dog food, just like dogs want.

They don’t want exotic, spicy foods that humans eat as it upsets their stomach. Chop this home-made food up ad put it into his dry kibble twice a week for a treat. Also try to give him a bit of raw meat occasionally. Never leave him without a constant source of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Pyrenean Mastiff vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Pyrenean Mastiff vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Pyrenean Mastiff vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Pyrenean Mastiff vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Pyrenean Mastiff vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Pyrenean Mastiff vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Pyrenean Mastiff vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison