Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Doberman Pinscher

Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a gentle, affectionate, caring and dignified temperament. They are independent-minded, but are very loving and loyal toward their two-legged friends and family. Rhodesians rarely show any aggression toward humans. They are generally compatible with other dogs, too, especially if they’ve been in the same household from an early age. However, they have been known to rise to a challenge and stand their ground in a doggy disagreement, particularly with those of the same gender.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog breed has low biting tendencies as adults, although as a puppy, they can be quite nippy. Overall, they’re incredibly smart and intuitive. Ridgebacks assimilate information easily with a strong leader (that’s you!) and can be protective of children and other pack members (human or animal), making them ideal guard dogs with a strong bite force. They bark to alert people of danger and threatening situations, but they do not bite or attack unless provoked.

Because they were bred to hunt lions, they have a strong prey drive toward smaller animals that aren’t their own species. In other words: Cats aren’t going to be your Rhodesian’s BFF—rather, these dogs will likely chase them down.

Rhodesians are extremely friendly with people once they get to know them; they can be reserved with strangers. This dog breed is also highly perceptive and sensitive to peoples’ energies. They can be great with kids, but early interactions with them from puppyhood is important. As with most powerful breeds, and dogs in general, you should supervise playtime around toddlers and young children. Rhodesians will be more protective of softer personalities, particularly children and the elderly.

Since they require regular exercise and, because of their prey drive, can be overly curious at times, this breed may frustrate a first-time dog parent. They’re better suited for an active parent who has experience training dogs.

Dobermans are highly intelligent, athletic and alert—all things that make them great guard dogs, which is what they were bred to do. And Dobies take their job as guard dog extraordinaire very seriously. This drive, along with their imposing physical appearance, has earned them a reputation of being notoriously protective. But when the pup parent provides the proper training, socialization and structure, these dogs are also a loving member of the family.

You’ll soon discover that, along with their formidable presence, Dobermans possess a deep devotion to their people. In fact, they bond so deeply with their humans and are so dedicated to their families, these affectionate dogs are sometimes referred to as “Velcro dogs.”

In addition to their work as guard dogs, Dobermans have a long history as police and military dogs, dating back to the early 20th century. Dobermans even assisted U.S. Marines during World War II.