Havanese vs Rhodesian Ridgeback
A side-by-side comparison to help you find the right breed for your lifestyle.
Havanese
Also known as: Havana Silk Dog, Bichon Havanais, Cuban Bichon
The Havanese is a small, sturdy dog breed known for its friendly and affectionate nature, as well as its distinctive silky coat. Originating from Cuba, this breed is highly sociable and adaptable, making it a popular choice for families and urban dwellers alike.
Extra Small
Medium
14-16 yrs
23-28 cm
3.2-5.9 kg
Rhodesian Ridgeback
Also known as: African Lion Dog, African Lion Hound, Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a distinctive and versatile dog breed originating from Southern Africa, known for its unique ridge of hair that runs along its back in the opposite direction to the rest of its coat. Originally bred for hunting and tracking lions, Ridgebacks are renowned for their strength, loyalty, and protective nature, making them both excellent companions and dependable watchdogs.
Large
High
10-12 yrs
63-69 cm
32-45 kg
Quick Comparison
| Trait | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Energy | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming Needs | ||
| Family Friendly | ||
| Independence |
Key Characteristics
| Good with Kids | ||
| Good with Dogs | ||
| Good with Cats | ||
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Apartment Friendly | ||
| First-Time Owner OK |
| Detail | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Extra Small | Large |
| Energy Level | Medium | High |
| Grooming | High | Low |
| Trainability | Easy | challenging |
| Barking Level | Medium | Low |
| Shedding Level | Low | Medium |
| Chew strength | Light | Hard |
| Housing | Apartment | Yard |
Owner Fit & Decision Guide
Owner Match
| Trait | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Experience Level | Beginner | Advanced |
| First-Time Owner | ||
| Ideal Owner | Someone who works from home or has flexible schedule. Willing to commit to grooming maintenance. Patient with housebreaking challenges. Looking for affectionate companion who wants to be with them 24/7. | Experienced dog owner who understands canine body language and leadership without force. Active lifestyle with secure fenced yard. Can commit to 90+ minutes daily exercise. Financially prepared for potential insurance premiums. |
Havanese Dealbreakers
- Work 8+ hours away from home daily
- Want a dog that lives outside
- Cannot afford professional grooming ($800+/year)
- Want a dog that is instantly potty trained
Rhodesian Ridgeback Dealbreakers
- Apartment living without extensive daily exercise
- Sedentary lifestyle - this is not a walk-around-the-block dog
- Soft or inconsistent owners - they will run your household
- Cannot handle insurance/housing restrictions
Surrender Risk
| Factor | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Risk Level | Low | Medium |
| Primary Reasons | Owner lifestyle change (divorce, moving, death), Housebreaking failure - people underestimate potty training commitment | He got too big and we can't control him, Failed to train during 60lb adolescent phase, now have 90lb unmanageable dog, Jumps on grandma, drags owner on walks |
Temperament & Personality
Behavior Comparison
| Trait | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Prey Drive | ||
| Watchdog Ability | ||
| Stranger Friendly | ||
| Drool Level | ||
| Wanderlust |
Vocalization
| Trait | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Barking Level | Medium | Low |
| Howling Tendency | ||
| Whining Tendency | Medium | Low |
| Separation Vocalization |
Safety & Reliability
| Trait | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Escape Artist | ||
| Dog Park Suitable | ||
| Off-Leash Reliable | ||
| Small Animal Safe | ||
| Leash Reactivity | ||
| Resource Guarding Risk | Low | Low |
Havanese Social Traits
Low
Low - generally loves other dogs
Rhodesian Ridgeback Social Traits
High
High - particularly same-sex aggression, rough play style (body slamming) can offend other breeds
Training
Havanese
- Use their high food drive and social drive for training
- Sensitivity means harsh corrections cause shutdown or submissive urination
- Consistency is key - don't let them get away with bad behavior just because they're small
Rhodesian Ridgeback
- Keep sessions short and varied - they bore easily with repetition
- High food drive is your best tool - use valuable treats
- Never punish them for coming to you - even if they took their time
- Do not expect 'robot' obedience - this is an independent thinker
Havanese Considerations
Bred for centuries solely as companions to Cuban aristocracy - genetically wired to be with humans. Leaving them alone 8+ hours results in destructive chewing, excessive barking, and house soiling.
Notoriously slow to potty train. Small bladders and 'sneaky soiling' means they may not be fully reliable until 6-8 months old, sometimes older. Requires consistent positive reinforcement.
Excellent watchdogs who announce every delivery truck, neighbor, and squirrel. In apartments with thin walls, this requires dedicated training to manage.
Unless you learn to groom yourself, expect $60-100 every 4-6 weeks for professional grooming. That's $700-1,200 annually just for haircuts.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Considerations
Bred to track lions, they have hardwired instincts to chase anything that moves—squirrels, cats, rabbits, small dogs. This drive is NOT trainable out. Off-leash reliability is rare and risky.
Unlike people-pleasers, a Ridgeback asks 'What's in it for me?' They will weigh the pros and cons of your command before deciding whether to obey.
Male Ridgebacks particularly can become intolerant of other male dogs at sexual maturity (18-24 months), making multi-dog households challenging.
Frequently listed alongside Pit Bulls and Rottweilers on insurance company blacklists. Many landlords ban the breed due to size and liability concerns.
Multi-Species Compatibility
| Species | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| With Cats | Excellent - generally great with cats | Risky - best if raised from puppyhood with confident, dog-savvy cat; prey drive makes coexistence challenging |
| Small Mammals | Safe - low prey drive makes them one of safest breeds for rabbits and guinea pigs | Unsafe - will trigger full predatory sequence |
| Birds / Reptiles | Safe - generally lacks drive to harm, though always supervise | Unsafe - hunting instincts activated |
Advanced Behavior
| Trait | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Predatory Sequence Risk | Arrested | Full |
| Biddability | High | Low |
| Noise Sensitivity | Medium | Low |
| Territorial Barking | ||
| Same-Sex Aggression Onset | N/A | 18 months |
Havanese: May 'Eye' and 'Chase' for play but 'Grab-Bite' and 'Kill-Bite' largely absent. Safe with hamsters and birds if supervised. High biddability but can learn bad habits fast (like barking for attention).
Rhodesian Ridgeback: Full predatory sequence: Eye → Stalk → Chase → Grab → Kill. Unlike a Border Collie (arrested at Chase), the Ridgeback completes the sequence. High adaptive intelligence but low biddability - they are problem solvers who can open fridges, gates, and doors.
First Year & Life Stages
First Year Challenges
| Challenge | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Difficulty | ||
| Destructive Phase | 4-12 | 6-18 |
| House Training | Hard | Medium |
| Crate Training | Medium | High |
| Adolescent Regression |
Havanese: Sweet and generally non-destructive compared to larger breeds. Main challenge is housebreaking frustration - their 'tell' (sign they need to go) is subtle. Adolescent regression at 6-10 months coincides with 'blowing coat' phase where grooming becomes a nightmare.
Rhodesian Ridgeback: Ridgeback puppies are rowdy 'land sharks' with razor-sharp teeth. They grow very fast and are physically strong at 6 months but mentally still puppies. Counter-surfers and notorious chewers.
Life Stages Timeline
| Stage | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Puppy Phase | 12 months | 14 months |
| Adolescence | 6-18 | 14-24 |
| Adult Years | 2-9 | 2-8 |
| Senior Onset | ~10 years | ~8 years |
| Peak Energy Age | 1-3 years | 1-3 years |
Size & Physical Characteristics
Physical Stats
| Measurement | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 23-28 cm | 63-69 cm |
| Weight | Not enough data yet | Not enough data yet |
| Size Category | Extra Small | Large |
| Lifespan | 14–16 years | 10–12 years |
| Litter Size | 4-6 | 8-10 |
Havanese Coat
Rhodesian Ridgeback Coat
Lineage & Origin
| Detail | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Original Purpose | Companion dog for Cuban aristocracy - bred to sit on laps, act as bed warmers, and entertain | Track, corner, and bay lions until the hunter arrived; homestead protection in African bush |
| Origin | Cuba, 18th-19th century (descended from Blanquito de la Habana and Bichon Tenerife) | Southern Africa (Zimbabwe/Rhodesia), colonial era |
Breeding Details
| Detail | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| C-Section Rate | Low | Low |
| Whelping Difficulty | Easy | Easy |
| Puppy Mortality Rate | Low | Low |
Physical Risks
| Risk | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Bloat / GDV Risk | Low | High |
| Slippery Floor Risk | Low | Low |
| Min Fence Height | 1m | 1.8m |
| Dig / Escape Risk | Low | Low |
Health & Common Conditions
Havanese Health Issues
Rhodesian Ridgeback Health Issues
Havanese Suggested Tests
- Hip Evaluation (OFA)
- Patella Evaluation
- Ophthalmologist Evaluation (CAER)
- BAER Hearing Test
Rhodesian Ridgeback Suggested Tests
- Hip and Elbow Evaluation (OFA/PennHIP)
- Thyroid Function Test
- Cardiac Evaluation
- Dermoid Sinus Check (palpation at purchase)
- Consider Preventative Gastropexy
Health Risk Overview
| Risk Factor | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Cancer Risk | Low | Low |
| Cardiac Risk | Medium | Low |
| Neurological Risk | Low | Low |
| CCL/ACL Tear Risk | Low | Low |
| Vet Burden Tier | Medium | Medium |
Sensitivities & Allergies
| Sensitivity | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Skin Allergies | ||
| Environmental Allergies | ||
| Stomach Sensitivity | Low | Low |
| Food Allergies |
Health Maintenance
| Care Item | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Nail Growth Rate | Normal | Fast |
| Eye Care Needs | High | Low |
| Anal Gland Issues | Occasional | Rare |
Senior Care & Aging
Havanese Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Cataracts
- Heart murmurs (Mitral Valve Disease)
- Hearing loss
- Arthritis
Generally stay sharp mentally. Ramps for furniture recommended to protect backs and joints in senior years.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Senior Care
Common Senior Issues
- Arthritis
- Joint stiffness
- Hypothyroidism management
Slowing down significantly at 8+ years. Arthritis risks increase.
Grooming & Care
Havanese
high maintenanceRhodesian Ridgeback
low maintenanceLifestyle Compatibility
Havanese Daily Life
Rhodesian Ridgeback Daily Life
Housing & Legal Restrictions
| Restriction | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| BSL Restricted | ||
| Common Rental Ban | ||
| Insurance Blacklist | ||
| Weight Category | Under 25lbs | Over 50lbs |
Climate Tolerance
| Climate | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Tolerance | ||
| Cold Tolerance | ||
| Water Affinity | Medium | Low |
Travel Compatibility
| Activity | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Car Travel | Excellent | Good |
| Camping | ||
| Beach Friendly | ||
| Hiking Rating | ||
| Cabin Flight Eligible | ||
| Hotel Friendly Size |
Niche Suitability
| Role | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Service Dog | Medium | Low |
| Therapy Dog | High | Low |
| Deep Pressure Therapy | ||
| Canicross / Bikejoring | ||
| Apartment Adaptable | ||
| Tactile / Sensory Friendly | ||
| Livestock Guardian | ||
| Medical Alert | Low | Low |
Costs & Expenses
Upfront Costs
| Cost | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase Price | $1,500-3,500+ | $1,800-2,500+ |
| Initial Cost Range | $1,500–$3,500 | $1,800–$2,500 |
| Cost Tier |
Ongoing Costs
| Cost | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Monthly Range | $100–$200 | $150–$250 |
| Yearly Range | $1,500–$2,500 | $1,800–$3,000 |
| Food / Month | $20-40 | $80-110 |
| Insurance / Month | $30-50 | $50-100+ |
| Grooming / Session | $60-100 | $40-60 |
| Vet Routine / Year | $300-500 | $200-500 |
| Monthly Cost Tier |
Havanese Lifetime Cost
$20,000-35,000
Rhodesian Ridgeback Lifetime Cost
$20,000-35,000
Quirks & Fun Facts
Daily Quirks
| Quirk | Havanese | Rhodesian Ridgeback |
|---|---|---|
| Snoring | ||
| Flatulence | Rare | Rare |
| Slobber Level | None | None |
| Smell When Wet | Mild | Mild |
| Zoomies Frequency | Daily | Weekly |
| Counter Surfing | ||
| Digging Tendency | None | Low |
Havanese Quirks
Paper Shredding
Many Havanese love to shred tissues, toilet paper, and napkins - it's a common breed quirk
Perching Like a Cat
Often sit on backs of sofas or look out windows from high vantage points
Run Like Hell (RLH)
The Havanese version of zoomies - they tuck their butts and sprint in circles at high speed
Shadow Dog
Will follow you to the bathroom - they are true velcro dogs
Rhodesian Ridgeback Quirks
Counter Surfing Champions
Tall and food-motivated - can clear a kitchen counter of a roast chicken in seconds
The Ridgeback Lean
Love to lean their full weight against your legs as a sign of affection
Sun Worshippers
Will find the smallest patch of sunlight in the house and sleep in it
30mph Couch Potato
Adult Ridgebacks have a fantastic off-switch indoors after proper exercise
Frequently Asked Questions
Turn your dog into a brand deal.
Pet brands are looking for authentic creators — not celebrities. If you own a Havanese or Rhodesian Ridgeback, you can get free products, gear, and exclusive perks just for sharing your dog's life on Instagram.
No followers minimum · Free to join
Compare with Other Breeds
Compare Havanese with:
Compare Rhodesian Ridgeback with:
Based on comprehensive breed research data.