Rhodesian Ridgeback

The mighty Rhodesian ridgeback is an unmistakable hound dog, identifiable for the ridge of striping fur along the spine. The breed originated in Africa, descending from a cross of Greyhounds, Mastiffs, and Bloodhounds with the native African Khoikhoi dog. Over generations, the dogs were raised for tracking and baying — but not killing — lions while on the hunt. The resulting ridgeback hounds inherited a resilience to local bugs and pests and the brains to outsmart their predators. 

These days, Rhodesian ridgebacks are lovable family members, albeit with a strong prey drive and impressive independence. These powerful athlete dogs come in a limited variety of wheat-like colors, from beige and flax to muted russet red. Ridgebacks are sometimes strong-willed, bred as they are to work as a teammate on the hunt. As such, they require a firm but loving hand in training from the time they’re puppies. With firm training and affection, ridgebacks become faithful, caring family members who will gladly cuddle with those they trust.

3 Pros and Cons of Owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback

Size and Weight

Female Rhodesian ridgebacks sport medium heights, with averages between 24 and 26 inches, while males reach about an inch taller. Male Rhodesian Ridgebacks typically weigh between 80 and 90 pounds, while females usually weigh between 65 and 75 pounds at maturity.

Common Health Issues

While ridgebacks are generally healthy, responsible breeders should check their stock for hip and elbow dysplasia, thyroid health, and potential eye issues. Rhodesian ridgebacks can inherit these joint or hormonal issues, so proper testing is necessary for preventative health.

Ridgebacks can also be born with a dermoid sinus, a tube-like tract under the skin along the spine that is present at birth and can lead to infections if not treated; breeders can usually feel for this defect.

Temperament

Rhodesian ridgebacks are affectionate, gentle dogs to their family, though they often are independent and single-minded. While rarely aggressive, these dogs have a strong prey drive and will chase animals if they perceive them as prey. Most of the time, they’re compatible with other dogs, especially when raised together from an early age. In doggy disagreements, they’ll stand their ground and won’t back down from a fight, particularly with dogs of the same gender. As such, you should supervise your dog when introducing it to new friends.

Ridgebacks can also be highly effective guard dogs, barking to alert their people of dangerous or suspicious situations, but, like all dogs, they may bite or attack if they feel threatened or provoked.

How To Take Care of a Rhodesian Ridgeback 

These strong-willed dogs require clear, firm leadership to raise them into happy, securely attached animals. With minimal grooming, plenty of exercise, and socialization, your Rhodesian ridgeback will be a constant, loyal companion for the rest of your days together.

The Best Dog Food

The Rhodesian ridgeback’s muscular mass and moderate energy levels demand high-quality dog food that keeps your pup in healthy, happy shape. These dogs do best with a recipe with clean ingredients and formulations well-suited to the appropriate age in your dog’s life cycle, whether puppy or senior. 

A high-protein diet with real animal meat will help your pup build and maintain muscle mass, while omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins help support healthy joints, skin, and fur.

Ridgebacks are known to pack on the pounds, so it’s essential to keep an eye on your pup’s food intake to manage weight levels. Some are notorious for sneaking and stealing their human’s food off the counter — best not to leave your ridgeback alone with your dinner. 

While treats are handy for training as positive reinforcement, overindulging can cause obesity in your Rhodesian ridgeback. Be sure to use goodies sparingly; breaking a larger piece into smaller pieces is just as effective.

Maintenance And Grooming

The Rhodesian ridgeback sheds mildly with generally low-key grooming needs. A weekly brushing will keep the coat clean and remove loose hair or dirt, and an occasional bath will keep your pup stink-free. Regularly trim down your dog’s nails if they’re not worn down naturally, as too-long nails can make your pup uncomfortable and cause walking issues. 

Training

Due to their prey drive, ridgebacks should be kept on a leash at all times unless in a safely enclosed area. These dogs are devoted companions, thriving on quality time with their families. However, trainers must guide the Ridgeback’s strong will and independence from an early age with a firm hand. Early training, socialization, and even puppy classes will use positive reinforcement to help your dog grow into a well-mannered, at-ease companion.

Exercise

The athletic Rhodesian ridgeback requires moderate levels of exercise, though they adapt well to various living environments so long as they’re provided with regular walks and play sessions. They love to run and thrive on physical activity to keep them happy and healthy. Rhodesian ridgebacks excel at dog sports such as agility, tracking, and lure coursing.

Puppies

Puppy ridgebacks require lots of patience and a consistent, positive-reinforcement training schedule to avoid them developing into domineering, bossy dogs. The breed can be nippy as a puppy, so early training them to prevent biting is essential. Rhodesian ridgebacks are highly intelligent and can easily understand direction from their owners; if they’ve established themselves as the strong leader of the pack, that is. Early socialization, particularly with children and other family members, can help them become at ease with new situations and comfortable meeting new people.

Rhodesian Ridgeback And Children

Rhodesian ridgebacks adore children and are great family dogs. These dogs are ideal companions for kids who love the great outdoors and will happily accompany children on hikes or camping trips. However, they can be somewhat too rambunctious for toddlers and may accidentally step on or crush a small child if not supervised.

Dogs similar to the Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is closely related to other larger prey-driven dogs, including the Boerboel, Great Dane, and Thai Ridgeback.

• Boerboel: Both the Rhodesian Ridgeback and Boerboel originated in southern Africa and share some ancestry from European dogs brought by settlers.
• Great Dane: The Great Dane is another hunting breed with a strong prey drive and plenty of independence.
• Thai Ridgeback: These dogs share similar “ridge” markings along the spine with Rhodesian ridgebacks.