Rhodesian Bernard vs. Chow Shepherd: Breed Differences and Similarities

Hypoallergenic

Are Rhodesian Bernards or Chow Shepherds hypoallergenic, or neither?

Unfortunately, neither Rhodesian Bernard nor Chow Shepherd are hypoallergenic, which may not make them the best choice for dog lovers who suffer from pet allergies.

Temperament

What are the personalities of Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd dogs?

Dignified
Independent
Happy
Sensitive
Intelligent
Friendly
Loyal
Gentle
Going
Social
Strong
Willed
Quiet
Mischievous

Curious
Aloof
Independent
Protective
Alert
Courageous
Intelligent
Confident
Obedient
Loyal
Watchful
Quiet
Detached

Shedding Level

Do Rhodesian Bernards shed more than Chow Shepherds, or which breed sheds more, Rhodesian Bernards or Chow Shepherds?

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards are moderate shedders, but regular brushing can reduce shedding and maintain coat health.

5 / 5

Chow Shepherds shed a lot of hair each year, so frequent brushing is essential for reducing shedding and maintaining coat health.

Ancestry

What are the origins of Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd breeds?

Rhodesian Ridgeback, Saint Bernard

Chow Chow, German Shepherd

Date of Birth

When were Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd breeds first developed?

Unknown

Eye Color Possibilites

What are the eye colors of Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd dogs?

Brown
Amber

Brown

Nose Color Possibilites

What are the natural nose colors of Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd?

Black
Brown

Black

Coat Color Possibilites

What are the natural colors of the coat for Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd breeds?

Red
Fawn
Black
Brindle

Brown
Black
Red
Gray
Cream
Fawn

Coat Length

What is the typical coat length for Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd breeds?

2 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards have coats that can be either short or medium in length.

4 / 5

Chow Shepherds have longer coats compared to most dogs.

Coat Density

What is the density of the coat of Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd?

3 / 5

5 / 5

Coat Texture

What is the hair texture of Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd?

Straight

Litter Size

What is the usual litter size for Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd?

A Rhodesian Bernard can have a litter of 6-8 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

A Chow Shepherd can have a litter of 6-10 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

Adaptability

4 / 5

The adaptability of Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd dogs is a well-known trait. They are known for being able to adjust well to different living environments and lifestyle changes.

Health Issues

Between Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd, which breed is more prone to health problems?

4 / 5

The Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd breeds are commonly healthy with low vet costs, regular check-ups may not be as necessary but it's important to keep an eye on their health and have them checked by a veterinarian when needed.

Major Concerns

What are the major health concerns for Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd breeds?

Distichiasis
Gastric Torsion
Elbow Dysplasia
Hip Dysplasia
Dermoid Sinus
Heart Conditions
Wobbler's Syndrome

Hip Dysplasia
Degenerative Myelopathy
Myasthenia Gravis

Minor Concerns

What minor health issues should be kept in mind when owning Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd?

Entropion
Deafness
Cataracts
Pyotraumatic Dermatitis
Diabetes
Hypothyroidism
Degenerative Myelopathy

Cataracts

Occasional Tests

What occasional tests are recommended for Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd breeds?

Eye
Hip
Elbow
Hearing
Heart
Thyroid Tests
Blood And Urine Analysis

X-Rays
MRI
Blood Tests
Ophthalmologic Examination

Social Needs

Rhodesian Bernard vs Chow Shepherd social needs comparison

5 / 5

Rhodesian Bernard has very high social needs and requires regular mental and physical stimulation, a job or purpose, and companionship.

3 / 5

Chow Shepherd has average social needs and is less independent than other breeds.

Sleeping Need

Which of the two sleeps the most/least: Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd?

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd breeds are known to have moderate energy levels and normal sleep patterns, typically sleeping around 12-14 hours per day.

Mouthiness

Mouthiness Comparison: Rhodesian Bernard vs Chow Shepherd?

2 / 5

5 / 5

Roaming urge

Rhodesian Bernard vs Labrador: Running away tendency?

3 / 5

2 / 5

Prey Drive

Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd - which breed has a higher level of prey drive?

3 / 5

Activity Level

Which breed has higher energy, Rhodesian Bernards or Chow Shepherds?

Rhodesian Bernards are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

Chow Shepherds are high-energy dogs. They need mental as well as physical exercise. These dogs require a lot of your involvement and without it they can, and will, become problematic dogs.

Tolerance of being left alone

1 / 5

3 / 5

Walks per Week

How many miles should Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd walk each week?

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Rhodesian Bernard, it's at least 8 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Chow Shepherd, it's at least 14 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

Activity per Day

Do Rhodesian Bernards or Chow Shepherds require more exercise?

In general most Rhodesian Bernards usually need at least 45 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

In general most Chow Shepherds usually need at least 75 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

Grooming

Which breed is easier to maintain in terms of grooming, Rhodesian Bernards or Chow Shepherds?

2 / 5

The Rhodesian Bernard has low grooming needs and is easy to maintain.

4 / 5

Chow Shepherds require significant grooming, including regular trims and professional grooming assistance to maintain their coat. They may also require frequent bathing to keep their coat and skin healthy.

Brushing Frequency

What is the recommended brushing frequency for Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd dogs?

Rhodesian Bernard should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Ideally, Chow Shepherd should be brushed at least 2 or 3 times a week (preferably daily) improve shedding.

Brushing Tools

What brushing tools are used for Rhodesian Bernards and Chow Shepherds?

Pin Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Pin Brush
Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

Cups

How much food should be given to Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd in cups?

For an average 110-130 pound (50 - 59 kg) Rhodesian Bernard feed 3.5 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

For an average 45-90 pound (20 - 41 kg) Chow Shepherd feed 3 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

Daily Cost

Which breed has a higher daily cost, Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd?

The average cost of a Rhodesian Bernard is somewhere $3.90 - $4.20 per day.

The average cost of a Chow Shepherd is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

Monthly Cost

Which breed has a higher monthly cost, Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd?

The average per month expenses of a Rhodesian Bernard is between $112 - $126. This makes an average of $1344 - $1512 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

The average per month expenses of a Chow Shepherd is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Sensitivity Level

How do Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd compare in sensitivity?

5 / 5

This breed is sensitive to its environment and best suited for patient and understanding families with a consistent routine.

4 / 5

This breed is sensitive and requires gentle handling and a calm home environment.

Apartment Friendly

Which breed is more apartment-friendly: Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd?

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards and Chow Shepherds are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

Child Friendly

Do Rhodesian Bernards or Chow Shepherds have a friendlier temperament towards children?

5 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards make excellent family pets for kids due to their gentle, protective nature and calm temperament.

4 / 5

Chow Shepherds are good with kids if socialized and trained from a young age.

Senior-friendly

Which dog is more suitable as a pet for the elderly - Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd?

5 / 5

4 / 5

Cat Friendly

Do Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd breeds have a better compatibility with cats?

4 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards are good with cats, but early training is needed to prevent chasing behavior.

3 / 5

Chow Shepherds are average in their friendliness toward cats and tend to do well with them, especially if raised together.

Dog Friendly

Which breed is more sociable with other dogs: Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd?

4 / 5

Rhodesian Bernards are friendly and active companions, and can be good family pets, though their friendliness towards other dogs may vary.

2 / 5

Chow Shepherds are less friendly towards other dogs, but can improve with socialization.

Pet friendly

How do Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd dogs interact with other pets?

4 / 5

3 / 5

Stranger Friendly

Which breed is more friendly with strangers: Rhodesian Bernard or Chow Shepherd?

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd are average friendly around strangers. They can be wary around strangers and a little standoffish, so early socialization is key to ensure they are comfortable around new people.

Playfulness

Which breed is more playful between Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd?

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd have an average level of playfulness. Like other dogs, they enjoy playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.

Trainability

How do the trainability levels of Rhodesian Bernards and Chow Shepherds compare?

3 / 5

Rhodesian Bernard and Chow Shepherd dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.