Compare breeds
Persian vs Ragdoll
Persian
Long
Ragdoll
Long
Choose the Persian if you want…
- a calmer companion
Choose the Ragdoll if you want…
- a family with children
- a home with other pets
- a dog or cat that learns quickly
- less hair around the house
- less time spent grooming
- an active companion for long walks and play
Side by side
| Trait | Persian | Ragdoll |
|---|---|---|
| Size | Medium | Large |
| Weight | 3–5.5 kg (7–12 lb) | 4.5–9 kg (10–20 lb) |
| Height | 25–38 cm (10–15 in) | 23–28 cm (9–11 in) |
| Life span | 12–17 years | 12–17 years |
| Origin | Persia (Iran) | United States |
| Energy | 1/5 | 2/5 |
| Trainability | 2/5 | 3/5 |
| Good with children | 3/5 | 5/5 |
| Good with other pets | 4/5 | 5/5 |
| Suits a flat | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Shedding | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Grooming needs | 5/5 | 3/5 |
| Barking / vocal | 1/5 | 1/5 |
Quick answers
Which is bigger, the Persian or the Ragdoll?
The Ragdoll — typically about 1.6 times the weight. Persian: 3–5.5 kg (7–12 lb); Ragdoll: 4.5–9 kg (10–20 lb).
Which lives longer, the Persian or the Ragdoll?
Their typical life spans are about the same. Persian: 12–17 years; Ragdoll: 12–17 years.
Is the Persian or the Ragdoll better with children?
The Ragdoll scores higher in our profiles (5 vs 3 out of 5). Always supervise young children with any pet.
Other comparisons
Tailwise is for general information and is reviewed by veterinary professionals, but it is not a substitute for advice from your own vet, who knows your pet. How we check facts