Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison

Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Atlas Terrier - Breed ComparisonRhodesian Ridgeback is originated from Zimbabwe but Atlas Terrier is originated from United States. Rhodesian Ridgeback may grow 41 cm / 17 inches higher than Atlas Terrier. Rhodesian Ridgeback may weigh 35 kg / 78 pounds more than Atlas Terrier. Rhodesian Ridgeback may live 3 years less than Atlas Terrier. Both Rhodesian Ridgeback and Atlas Terrier has almost same litter size. Rhodesian Ridgeback requires Low maintenance. But Atlas Terrier requires Moderate maintenance

History

rhodesian ridgeback - historyKnown 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.

atlas terrier - historyThe Atlas Terrier is a rare dog. He was developed in the USA and is a blend of Jack Russell Terriers, Rat Terriers, Border Terriers and Patterdale Terriers. It was in 1990 that Lauren Wolfe developed a breed similar to the Jack Russell, but with a solid colour, and in fact she had two dogs that were solid red in colour. This was as a result of a cross between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Border Terrier.

With the crossing of different terriers, the foundation for the Atlas Terrier was formed. Lauren Wolfe named the breed ‘Atlas Terrier’ because many terriers from various parts of the world were used to develop this specific breed. It was in 2001 that the Atlas Terrier Association was founded.

Description

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.

A Feisty, Fun Breed

atlas terrier puppy - descriptionAtlas Terrier dogs are a small to medium sized dog but with a strong personality. With their two coat varieties – smooth and wire – and coming directly from the Jack Russell Terrier, this feisty dog suits those who want a low maintenance, fun breed who will join them on their walks or jogs. These dogs are brave and loyal and will double as a watch dog and family pet.The breed is accepted for registry and it is classified under the Terrier dog category.

Different Sizes

There are 3 sizes of Atlas Terrier – toy, miniature, and standard. The toy variety is 23 to 28 cm tall at the shoulder and weighs 2.7 to 5.4 kg. All three varieties are the same except for height and weight.

The Coat - Smooth or Wavy?

The coat of this dog is thick and may come in a variety of colours such as brindle or merle. The Atlas Terrier is also found in solid colours and sometimes you will find that they have white markings on the face, feet or chest. Most times the tail of the Atlas Terrier is docked, but if not, the tail curls over the back. The ears of the Atlas Terrier are V-shaped and they fold forward.

Characteristics

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.

atlas terrier dog - characteristicsAtlas Terriers most certainly have a bit of the Jack Russell in them and these dogs are social, outgoing, mischievous and affectionate. They’re just like your regular naughty child and having one of them in your home will mean energy and lots of fun and games.

This is a highly social breed and he won’t like to be left alone every day. Just like a human child, he will need to be stimulated to ward off boredom and to prevent him from becoming destructive.

Learning Abilities

The Atlas Terrier just loves games and if you’re ready for a game, he will be more than ready to take part. He is intelligent and will therefore responds well to training and socialization. When properly socialized, Atlas Terriers get along well with children, and because they’re not an aggressive breed, if they’re properly trained and socialized they will get along with other pets too. Atlas Terriers make excellent pets, but he is a strong willed dog and will require an owner who is firm, but fair.

Health Problems

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.

atlas terrier puppies - health problemsThe selective breeding program of Atlas Terriers has meant that this is a robust, spunky breed free of any major health concerns. While they are a low maintenance breed with longevity on their side, you still have to be a responsible pet owner and see that your Atlas Terrier puppy gets all those must have injections.

Vaccinating your Atlas Terrier Puppy

Tiny puppies are susceptible to infectious diseases and will have to be vaccinated against them from 8 weeks on and then also get an annual booster. The diseases to be vaccinated against include hepatitis, distemper, parvovirus, coronavirus, eptospirosis and parainfluenza. Vaccinations must be kept up to date and it is mandatory for your puppy to be vaccinated against rabies.

Caring The Pet

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.

atlas terrier dogs - caringAs a medium shedder, the Atlas Terrier will require some grooming. Grooming is easy and a brush twice a week with a rubber-bristled brush will remove those loose hairs and give his coat a sheen.

Feeding the Puppy

Always make sure you’re feeding your tiny puppy the right quantities of a food type. Always feed your puppy food which is appropriate to his age. Your 8 week old puppy will require 4 meals a day. A highly active breed such as the Atlas Terrier will require more protein for energy.

Speak to your veterinarian about the perfect diet for your puppy and about wet- or dry foods. There is the choice of feeding your puppy commercial dog food or your own home-prepared meals, but then you want to be sure that your puppy is getting the right balance of minerals and vitamins.

Once your Atlas Terrier is about a year of age, he can go onto one meal a day or a lighter meal in the morning and the evening. Remember to ensure that there is always clean, cool water available for your puppy.

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Terrier dog
Origin:
Zimbabwe
United States
Height Male:
61 - 69 cm
24 - 28 inches
23 - 28 cm
9 - 12 inches
Height Female:
61 - 69 cm
24 - 28 inches
23 - 28 cm
9 - 12 inches
Weight Male:
27 - 41 kg
59 - 91 pounds
2 - 6 kg
4 - 14 pounds
Weight Female:
27 - 41 kg
59 - 91 pounds
2 - 5 kg
4 - 12 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
11 - 17 Years
Litter Size:
7 - 10
4 - 8
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
African Lion Dog
None
Colors Available:
wheaten, tan, Fawn
Several - Brindle, Merle
Coat:
Short, smooth, glossy
Short and dense
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Sweet
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Bloodhound - Breed Comparison
  2. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Greyhound - Breed Comparison
  3. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Francais Blanc et Noir - Breed Comparison
  4. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs American Foxhound - Breed Comparison
  5. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Borzoi - Breed Comparison
  6. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Black and Tan Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  7. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Mountain Cur - Breed Comparison
  8. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Black Mouth Cur - Breed Comparison
  9. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Rajapalayam - Breed Comparison
  10. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs American English Coonhound - Breed Comparison
  11. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Plott Hound - Breed Comparison
  12. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Petit Gascon Saintongeois - Breed Comparison
  13. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Otterhound - Breed Comparison
  14. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Mudhol Hound - Breed Comparison
  15. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Ibizan Hound - Breed Comparison
  16. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Rampur Greyhound - Breed Comparison
  17. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Austrian Black and Tan Hound - Breed Comparison
  18. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Galgo Espanol - Breed Comparison
  19. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Azawakh - Breed Comparison
  20. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hanover Hound - Breed Comparison
  21. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Majestic Tree Hound - Breed Comparison
  22. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Chart Polski - Breed Comparison
  23. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Polish Hunting Dog - Breed Comparison
  24. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Grand Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  25. Rhodesian Ridgeback vs Hortaya Borzaya - Breed Comparison
  26. American Pit Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  27. Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  28. Schnauzer vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  29. Fox Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  30. Bull and Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Bedlington Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  32. Irish Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  33. Fox Terrier (Smooth) vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Kerry Blue Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  35. Austrian Pinscher vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  36. Lakeland Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  37. Atlas Terrier vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  38. Jagdterrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  39. Blue Paul Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  40. Indian Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  41. Irish Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  42. Japanese Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  43. Brazilian Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  44. Old English Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  45. Scoland Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Skye Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  47. Irish Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  48. Soft-Coated Wheaten Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  49. Staffordshire Bull Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  50. Welsh Terrier vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds