This breed is very common in Africa and is much cheaper. These days, however, they are more than a fierce hunter; they are loyal companions ready to take over your houses coziest nook. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have odorless coats that do not require regular bathing but can get dirty and smelly if they get into the mud. The heart gets weakened. Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be great house dogs, provided that they have a family who makes the appropriate accommodations for them. A Rhodesian Ridgeback wont think twice about putting themselves in danger in order to take on a prey animal. Older dogs can be more difficult to train and behavior problems are a lot harder to fix. These canines have exceptional protective instincts that allow them to efficiently look after their home and family members. Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work. About Us | Contact | Privacy Policy| Terms and Conditions | Cookie Policy|Disclaimer. Therefore, a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should be strong enough to control these dogs on leash. Taking care of a Rhodesian Ridgeback can be much easier if youve had dogs in the past and have this breed in early training and socialization. Be prepared to accept your Rhodesian Ridgeback for who he is and dont expect to be able to change many aspects of his personality. Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not need any special training to be guard dogs. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. As of February 2023, Rhodesian Ridgeback Names seem increasingly popular with new puppy owners. Adoption fee. Ear cleaning also reduces the amount of wax in the ears. The hip and elbow dysplasia are both joint issues, but they manifest in slightly different ways. This dog can also be very vocal and barks or bays when it senses danger. [Should They Be Kept In Pairs? The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a fair-sized dog, built for athleticism. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not particularly malleable dogs. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are highly devoted to their family and cannot be expected to do well if left alone in a yard or kennel for long periods of time. If the only reason that you want a Ridgeback is because you think that its cool to own a dog who was once used to hunt lions, think twice about the decision that youre making. This dog is a power-breed that needs a calm and assertive handler but they are overall easy to train when they are young. It must be high-quality dry dog food with all the right nutrients in place. Ridgebacks cannot be described as eager to please, although they are extremely devoted to their families. This includes Amazon. Weekly brushing and monthly bathing sessions can help decrease the shedding. It is said to be immune to bug bites and can withstand extreme temperatures. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Family Dogs? Similar . It is best that your dog not be able to see through the fence since any sighting of a prey item will drive your dog to try to escape. Please consult a licensed veterinarian for any medical condition or query regarding the health of your pet. When you buy through links on PupHelp, we may earn an affiliate commission at no added cost to you. If your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy decides to disregard house training, it can be somewhat difficult to change his mind, since these dogs tend to be a bit more independent and less eager to please than some other breeds. ]. Dermoid sinus is a tube-like. As a guard dog, therefore, the Rhodesians will give you less of a headache at least when it comes to dealing with temperature-borne health problems. Without proper direction and training throughout life, they can be domineering and very stubborn. 2. But thats that and heres a breakdown of all the traits that make Rhodesian Ridgebacks good guard dogs. It may get to a moment when stubbornness sets in, leading to undesirable traits like chewing everything in sight, excessive digging and barking, urinating where it shouldnt, and even running off when unleashed. Some Ridgebacks will pursue and seize cats and other fleeing creatures. But, are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good family dogs? The favorite part of owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback is that it has low grooming needs. With its strength and imposing stature, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is not one to underestimate. All of these attributes make the Rhodesian Ridgeback good guard dogs. Chef Reader is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. : North Carolina State University So, if Rhodesian Ridgebacks feel that what they perceive to be theirs is in jeopardy, they can become aggressive against what they believe is a threat. Males stand 25 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh around 85 pounds. Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good guard dogs because of their high prey drive, mouthiness, outdoorsy nature, high energy levels, and protective instincts. That said, it wasnt bred to be a household pet. Let us now take a closer look at the breed and to see whether they can in fact be dangerous. Easy to find. 1. Here we answer the most important questions with complete, objective, thorough and extensive research, while also pulling from our combined 250 years of pet ownership experience. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is known for being great with older children and other animals if socialized at an early age. Rhodesian Ridgeback Grooming Needs & Care. Because Rhodesian Ridgebacks are brave and tenacious dogs, they are unlikely to back down from a fight. Older and very active dogs have developed problems with their hip and elbow joints. During the 17th century, the Khoikhoi tribe of Southern Africa developed a dog breed that could protect them from the dangers they faced every day. They cannot be let to get away with everything they want. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are built for warm temperatures and hot climates and will not tolerate the cold. Rhodesian ridgebacks are extremely tolerant dogs and excellent companions. If you are looking for a dog who can range freely with your livestock, this breed is probably not the best choice. Therefore, if you are looking for your first dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is probably not a good choice. And is also very affectionate and friendly to almost anyone it meets. Before bringing home a Rhodesian Ridgeback, it is important to be prepared and set the dog up for success. However, they also have characteristics, such as independence and a powerful prey drive, that make them a breed requiring an experienced owner. The Ridgeback can develop some dangerous tumors, much like humans do. Brave, confident, and calm, this lion hunter is a natural protector and watchdog. One recommendation is not to have too many male dogs in one household. The Ridgeback is a medium-sized dog, only weighing up to 85 pounds, and has a lifespan of 10-12 years. (2023), How Long Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks Live? Ridgebacks are generally good with all animals they are raised with. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a lovey-dovey personality only towards their parents and family. What Can Make Rhodesian Ridgebacks Aggressive? March 31, 2021, 11:12 amupdated December 2, 2021, 9:04 am. Rough handling will not be accepted by the Rhodesian Ridgeback. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an independent dog with a dominant character. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is ready to defend its family with all it has. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are well known for being excellent family dogs. However, they also have a reputation for being strong-willed, challenging to train, and aloof with strangers. You don't want a poorly socialized, untrained 95 pound muscular dog. You have to consider this before owning the breed. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a cross between a Khoikhoi and the Greyhounds and Terriers brought to Africa by Dutch colonists. In a nutshell, yes, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good family dog. As an Amazon Associate, TrendingBreeds.com earns from qualifying purchases. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large dog, the males can weigh between 80 and 90lbs while the females will weigh somewhere in the range of 65 and 78lbs. But the amount of effort that would go into the training sessions when the dog already has developed into a person will be huge. Its intelligence will come to good use here as it wont take time to learn simple commands. Therefore, if you are considering a Rhodesian Ridgeback, you better make space on your couch. Their concept of what qualifies as prey includes lions, so dont expect this dog to back down from anything. These dogs were bred in the steppes of South Africa to counter the constant threat of lions, boars, and bears. Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be good apartment dogs and are known to be affectionate with family members, but they are not good cuddle buddies. The wariness also keeps it alert, making it a good watchdog as well. This brings up a lot of questions that beg for answers. However, before owning them, know that they require a lot of exercise. A ridgeless Rhodesian ridgeback is a dog that does not have the gene that causes the growth of a ridge of hair along its back. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large dog breed from South Africa that used to be used for hunting. Though chewing and nipping are two dominant behaviors in this breed, these dogs have a low chance of biting. Today's Rhodesian Ridgebacks continue to have a strong desire to chase prey and can show more independence than other dogs. Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally make great family dogs, as they are tolerant and even-tempered. Given a good walk or play session, a mature Ridgeback is usually happy to loll around an apartment or condo all day, breeder Denise Flaim says, but count on hijinks from a puppy. However, they can be aggressive with other dogs that they come across and who are unfamiliar to them. It is essential that adults manage interaction between a Rhodesian Ridgeback and new children in the home, no matter how good the dog is with the familys children. Usually, cuddling is more likely in dogs that have had more exercise and are tired. Furthermore, the Rhodesian puppy needs basic obedience training. Considering that Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally weigh around 70 to 85 pounds and are powerfully muscled, it takes a great deal of strength in order to contain them when they decide they would like to run. He's smart but sometimes stubborn, with a moderate energy level and an easy-care coat. It occurs when the skin and the nervous system dont separate well when the embryo is developing. Because these dogs are powerful and courageous, any mishandling can result in a disaster. They need an experienced owner who can enforce rules and boundaries and who knows how to help their dog meet set expectations. $500.00. Rhodesian ridgebacks may well be born with their ridge, but they're certainly not born with a name, so let's get stuck into our lists of the most popular Rhodesian ridgeback names. They are known to be very loyal and protective of their families. He is capable of great endurance with a fair amount of speed. The powerful whip-like tail can easily clear ornaments off of coffee and end tables, so it is best to organize your home with your Ridgeback in mind. These "ridge less" puppies ridgebacks can be sold for $500 as this is a serious fault. All rights reserved. In addition to being used for hunting . Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have ridges . Rhodesian Ridgebacks have their own minds, and they are more likely to make a decision on their own than look to you for direction in any given circumstance. If they are raised together, many Rhodesian Ridgebacks will do well with cats, but these dogs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks: The Good and the Bad (2023), Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Dangerous? Due to their dominant personality they would most likely be the pack leader in a group of dogs. Treats also help with getting them to become less guarded over their food. I always tell the to-be owners of these dogs to be mindful of the repercussions of neglecting the dogs. Someone Who Values a Guard Dog However, it is important, especially if the dog is being used for protection, that it be desensitized to loud noises. Socialization should also start when the Rhodesian is a puppy. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dignified hunting dog who is well known for being brave and tenacious on the hunt and affectionate and loving at home. Wrapping Things Up. Some great ideas are to get them toys in which they have to figure out how to get the treats out of them, hide some treats or kibble around the house on rainy days, and search it out. It is loving and loyal towards its family members and can even tolerate the excesses of kids. Their short-haired coat needs minimal grooming and they do not shed much. Learn more about Bouncer today. The loyal Rhodesian Ridgeback can be a wonderful choice for a household with children if they are supervised and both dog and child are taught proper interaction. Both have similar symptoms, however, in that they affect a dogs movement, can cause pain and may make the dog unwilling to move. Because it is odorless and doesnt get dirty with ease, the Ridgeback doesnt need too much bathing. Here is what you need to know about ideal living situations for a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Are Rhodesian ridgebacks aggressive? An essential requirement, besides training and socialization, is keeping up with their energy, and allowing them to have sufficient mental and physical stimulation. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Guard Dog Any dog that will face off with a lion is surely not one to mess with. Teach it how to Stop, Sit, Drop an object from its mouth, and even stop attacking someone on command. Rhodesian Ridgeback. Hound dog breeds are often born and raised in packs, having to fend for themselves, so it becomes instinctive to want to protect what is theirs and not lose it to another pack member. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a strong desire to protect their family from danger. The breed is even used for dog shows, agility courses, and is becoming a valued family pet. DisclaimerOur articles are not substitutes for professional veterinary guidance. Rescue Dogs. Cheryl's Rhodesian Ridgebacks in Arizona | Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies | Good Dog Breeders Purebred Affenpinscher Afghan Hound Airedale Terrier Akbash Akita Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Alaskan Husky Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Bully American English Coonhound American Eskimo Dog American Foxhound Symptoms of heart complications in dogs include breathing difficulties, coughing, general weakness especially after exercising, and paralysis in worst cases. In addition, instilling confidence, and the ability to discern friend from foe is of the utmost importance. These days, he's less likely to hunt lions and more likely to hunt a soft spot on the sofa after going jogging with you. This instinct can carry over to their food, favorite toys, and treats. Overall, there are plenty of reasons why Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dogs. When Rhodesian Ridgebacks are young, feeding them by hand at times will help them to associate you with something good. Early socialization is key and it's better to start as soon as possible to avoid possible aggression toward other dogs and strangers. Your furniture and other pets may have to bear the brunt. Anything that threatens them is a vicious enemy and the dog fights it with all its might. Here you'll find all collections you've created before. Regular brushing can help remove the dead hair on its skin. These dogs are highly energetic and often have more energy than their people, so let your dog run and play off the lead with other dogs. These are dogs who need to be with their families. I am currently the trainer/behavior consultant for DoggoMag LLC for the past two years. As an Amazon Associate, TrendingBreeds.com earns from qualifying purchases. Not training your puppy early can have big consequences. It isnt all bad news though. However, the grown-up dog isnt friendly to everyone. The Rhodesian Ridgeback may seem laid-back, but it is a force to be reckoned with. 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