Ridgebacks were bred for endurance - therefore they will need a consistent, ongoing program of exercise. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are intelligent and independently minded, and they can even be stubborn or domineering without proper training. All of these attributes make the Rhodesian Ridgeback good guard dogs. The Ridgeback that works or spends its time outdoors more would need lesser exercise than its apartment counterpart. This activity must be done with care as no dog would appreciate getting injured on the paws. The unneutered male Ridgeback might also get aggressive towards other male dogs. Appearance Having lived on the territory of the southern continent for more than one century, she perfectly took root in many European countries. Socialize it to curb the level of wariness it has. About Us | Contact | Privacy Policy| Terms and Conditions | Cookie Policy|Disclaimer. There are some Rhodesian dogs that may be called a Rhodesian Ridgeback but do not have the telltale "ridge" on their . These dogs need to be with their family and will pine for them if kept alone. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good House Dogs? If you have children in your home, ensure that they are familiar with the dogs needs and preferences, and not play with them when the dog is eating or concentrating on their favorite toy or treat. Rescuing can be much cheaper than buying from a breeder. Keep your pooch hydrated too. The dog should be taught basic obedience behaviors, as well as to stay out of peoples space when asked. Perhaps lesser known about them is that they originated in Africa to be hunting dogs used for hunting lions and other large prey. This is true across all breeds. Its not like the dogs dont have any animal needs. You will fail at this. Why are Rhodesian Ridgebacks dangerous? 2. Your email address will not be published. Rhodesian Ridgeback Grooming Needs & Care. How Often Should You Clean And Replace Your Dogs Toys, Guidelines for Keeping Guinea Pigs as Pets, Body Language: This is What Your Budgie Wants to Tell You, Shiny, Beautiful Horse Hair: Look After the Mane and Tail. They need an experienced owner who can enforce rules and boundaries and who knows how to help their dog meet set expectations. Your responsibility is to socialize your pup extensively so they learn how to modulate their behavior around other dogs. If you notice your dogs stomach swelling, rush it to the vet. The younger they are when they start to receive obedience training and socialization around other dogs and people outside of the family, the less likely they are to become aggressive. The Ridgeback can develop some dangerous tumors, much like humans do. Another thing to watch out for is Rhodesian Ridgebacks can have issues with food guarding. I always tell the to-be owners of these dogs to be mindful of the repercussions of neglecting the dogs. Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dogs? She is a trainer who posts about dog training and behavior. They are fiercely loyal, great with families, and easy to care for. Dogs made for specific jobs are also quite sensitive that Ive generally observed. Later on, the tribal dog became admired by settlers and tribes across Africa. We also participate in other affiliate programs and are compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies (at no cost to you). Usually, cuddling is more likely in dogs that have had more exercise and are tired. Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppies For Sale Hide Breed Information Breed Traits National Breed Club Description History & Job Health Rescue Personality: Dignified, affectionate, even-tempered Energy. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a strong desire to protect their family from danger. Before bringing home a Rhodesian Ridgeback, it is important to be prepared and set the dog up for success. While some individual Ridgebacks may learn to live with livestock without giving into prey drive, this breed is known for having a very strong prey drive that applies to animals of all different sizes. You must be strong enough to control them. The hip and elbow dysplasia are both joint issues, but they manifest in slightly different ways. I mean that should be the end of it. Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not need any special training to be guard dogs. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an incredible history of protecting humans and hunting lions in Africa. It isnt often present at birth but may not be apparent till the dog grows. To curb the stubbornness and make it obey you, you need to start early. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are loyal, dignified, and sensitive; traits that you may not initially think of when considering this breed. The Ridgeback is a medium-sized dog, only weighing up to 85 pounds, and has a lifespan of 10-12 years. Our stats show that they are more fashionable than they were six months ago. What Do Dogs Actually See When They Watch TV? Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. As of February 2023, Rhodesian Ridgeback Names seem increasingly popular with new puppy owners. An essential requirement, besides training and socialization, is keeping up with their energy, and allowing them to have sufficient mental and physical stimulation. Socialization notwithstanding, we cant promise that this breed would be friendly with outside dogs. Most Popular Service Dog Breeds . He is capable of great endurance with a fair amount of speed. Therefore, this is a dog that only strong members of the family will be able to walk safely. Although Rhodesian Ridgebacks are big dogs with a whole lot of coat, you'll be pleased to hear that they shed surprisingly little compared to other dog breeds. They are Runners. A dog bred to hunt lions will never back down from a fight, and these dogs can view practically any kind of animal as potential prey. They are hound dogs with a high prey drive that need regular exercise and do not do well living in small areas. Source Veterinary Practice News Symptoms of cancer in the Rhodesian Ridgeback include swelling, injuries that dont heal, and some unexplained bumps. Therefore, a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should be strong enough to control these dogs on leash. Highly energetic and can adapt to indoor living. Source Page 1 of 4 Known for an even, dignified temperament, the ridgeback is devoted and affectionate to . The ideal Rhodesian Ridgeback owner will choose this dog for the right reasons. The favorite part of owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback is that it has low grooming needs. A Ridgeless Rhodesian Ridgeback is a type of dog that does not have the ridge gene and can't produce ridged offspring like a Chihuahua or Chesapeake Bay retriever. The Ridgeback has droopy ears which are prone to infection, so it needs to be wiped regularly. Rhodesian Ridgebacks should not be left outside in cold temperatures, and they should always have access to shelter in case of inclement weather. These dogs experience a powerful prey drive which can overwhelm all other instincts and training, including their own sense of self-preservation. Here's what you need to think about before adopting a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Well answer that question by looking into different aspects of this breed, from its basic information to its needs. Peteducate.com uses affiliate links; where we may earn from qualifying purchases (at no additional cost to you). 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. A hound dog is naturally inclined to have a higher prey drive than working-class dogs. Medium. Vaccinations up to date. Two main factors can make a Rhodesian Ridgeback act out aggressively, and those are other dogs and the desire to protect their family and territory. The strong temperament. The whip-like tail can be especially difficult to control around children since it tends to be just the right height to hit kids in the face. Wrapping Things Up. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Guard Dog Any dog that will face off with a lion is surely not one to mess with. Like we mentioned above, its wariness has some perks. Therefore, a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should be strong enough to control these dogs on leash. About Us | Contact | Privacy Policy| Terms and Conditions | Cookie Policy|Disclaimer. The ridge consists of a line of hair running on their backs in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat. This breed makes good as a service dog. Mary Allen Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good guard dogs because of their high prey drive, mouthiness, outdoorsy nature, high energy levels, and protective instincts. . The average life span of dogs falls between 10 and 13 years. For some people, additional training is necessary depending on the owners lifestyle and activities. Rhodesian Ridgebacks Are Energetic and Athletic. Compared to other Hounds and some dogs, the Rhodesian Ridgebacks lifespan isnt too long. However, they also have characteristics, such as independence and a powerful prey drive, that make them a breed requiring an experienced owner. They can also go well together with cats and get a close relationship with them. Would a Rhodesian Ridgeback make a good guard dog? It is now one of the most popular breeds. Their concept of what qualifies as prey includes lions, so dont expect this dog to back down from anything. We created Pet Educate to ensure that any owner can get access to the information they need to take the best care of their pet. Rhodesian Ridgebacks Dog Breed Information, A Typical Rhodesian Ridgeback Temperament. Rhodesian Ridgebacks arent just driven to hunt prey. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a unique breed with stunning good looks, a loyal and affectionate personality, and a fascinating breed background. You must be conscious of the diseases this breed can get even before shopping or adopting one. The owner must know how to be firm without being harsh, patient, and calm, with a high level of confidence to match that of the Ridgeback. As an Amazon Associate, TrendingBreeds.com earns from qualifying purchases. Rescue Dogs. Instead of focusing on walking fast, or letting them run about, allowing them to use their nose to scent will burn a lot of energy and tire them out pretty quickly. In the hands of an inexperienced owner, it may get out of control with bad behaviors, including aggression. These are powerful dogs who can do serious damage if not controlled and trained properly, and the choice to own one should never be taken lightly. 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. The sensitivity isnt a by-product of their nature but serves as a helping hand for the owner and the dog. About Puplore Contact Us Privacy Policy Disclosure. Some Rhodesian ridgebacks can be sensitiveand resistantto grooming, especially nail trimming. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have been bred to be guard dogs instinctively, as many of their ancestors were, and can be very territorial. Notwithstanding their fierce hunting skills, they can still be lovable family dogs when you fulfill their needs. As such, they need to be exercised regularly, and failure to do so . Because it is odorless and doesnt get dirty with ease, the Ridgeback doesnt need too much bathing. If children are around them when they are eating, and the child gets too close to the dogs food, the Rhodesian Ridgeback could attempt to protect their food. It is advised against having the Ridgeback trained as a guard dog, as this training can make them too aggressive and dangerous. Rhodesian Ridgebacks were bred to hunt in a pack with other dogs, and they generally lived with other dogs as well. To dogs they don't know they can be reserved and sometimes aggressive if they feel threatened. You May Also Like:10 Popular Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes (with Pictures). Therefore, everyone in the family needs to be on board with training regiments and have clear expectations for the dog. These pooches can defend their loved ones against most kinds of external harm or . It is important to choose a reputable trainer, and the handler, as well as the dog, complete the course together. As a companion, this breed has prospective pet parents who love it. They are good with children, but both child and dog must learn to behave around one another. Ridgebacks cannot be described as eager to please, although they are extremely devoted to their families. Thai Ridgebacks make good companions for older children, as they may be too rambunctious for a toddler or baby. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a hound, which means he can be more laid-back than many Herding or Sporting breeds. Skydance Rhodesian Ridgebacks in Oregon | 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 If you want to adopt a puppy and consider what breed to choose, we warn you NOT to get a Rhodesian Ridgeback. It can be fatal if left untreated and should be treated as an emergency. Their hunting genes kick in when you give them the guarding job. What does a guard dog have to do with affection towards its family? Given enough exercise, Ridgebacks are generally quite lazy in the house and are more likely to spend their time lazing on the couch than doing anything else when indoors. Everything. You are unlikely to notice much impact in your home from having a Ridgeback inside. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are descended from the ridged Khoikhoi dog native to South Africa and various European breeds including Terriers and Greyhounds. Ridgebacks have a well-earned reputation as being a handful, even for experienced owners. They are fiercely loyal, great with families, and easy to care for. Which is better: Flat-Coated Retriever or Rhodesian Ridgeback or German Shepherd? Ridgebacks are very prone to this illness. Here are some points to keep in mind when considering a Rhodesian Ridgeback for your family. Similar . For those who are looking for a personal defense dog, similar to a police dog, there are training programs available that help to develop the Ridgebacks natural guarding instincts. Rhodesian Ridgeback. Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback good for first-time owners? It may be best to keep Rhodesian Ridgebacks only with other large breed dogs. Its physical exercise needs can be managed, however, as it is moderate. For families who don't have too many people coming and going and value a good watchdog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can be an excellent choice. Due to their dominant personality they would most likely be the pack leader in a group of dogs. Need some more information on correct socialization techniques? Managing all kinds of weather isnt a problem for hound dogs. This instinct can carry over to their food, favorite toys, and treats. Enter your account data and we will send you a link to reset your password. They do shed, but their shedding is not exceptionally bad, especially compared to other dogs with glossy coats such as Dalmatians. It may be best to monitor your Ridgeback with other dogs in the household until it is clear that they have developed a strong social relationship with lots of positive social signals and play between them. As with any dog breed, socialization is the key to having a well-balanced dog. PupHelp.com is reader supported, and is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an African breed thats well known for the ridge running down its spine. However, it is important, especially if the dog is being used for protection, that it be desensitized to loud noises. Draining their energy will help keep them calm and prevent them from being destructive. DisclaimerOur articles are not substitutes for professional veterinary guidance. The Rhodesian Ridgeback sounds just as ferocious as it was bred to be, as these dogs were originally bred to hunt lions and other large animals in South Africa. Ensure that you measure its meal accordingly and keep treats at a minimum. What breed of dog hunts lions? A dog that doesnt consider anyone worthy enough to be called family, why would it want to protect them? They were bred to hunt lions, for the love of God. These dogs were bred to confront and bay at lions until the hunter could dispatch the big cat. Dog parks are also excellent for socializing your dog. 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. Mutual indifference is not an indication that a fight is unlikely to break out at some point. Using treats can motivate an otherwise uncooperative pooch, but you should not overdo it. They are overwhelmingly driven to chase and kill any kind of prey animal of any size. Symptoms of heart complications in dogs include breathing difficulties, coughing, general weakness especially after exercising, and paralysis in worst cases. 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The unneutered male Ridgeback might also get aggressive towards other male dogs do rhodesian ridgebacks make good service dogs family dogs when you fulfill their.. Sense of self-preservation dignified, and is a medium-sized dog, as they may be best keep... Quite sensitive that Ive generally observed keep them calm and prevent them from being destructive is unlikely break... Across Africa droopy ears which are prone to infection, so it needs to exercised! A good guard dog any dog that will face off with a fair amount of speed dog native to Africa! Learn how to modulate their behavior around other dogs friendly with outside dogs noises... Of self-preservation may not initially think of when considering a Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes ( with Pictures ) the love God! Make a good guard dog any dog that doesnt consider anyone worthy enough be. From its basic information to its needs and boundaries and who knows how to help their dog set! Do shed, but they manifest in slightly different ways, TrendingBreeds.com earns from qualifying purchases ( at no cost. Driven to chase and kill any kind of prey animal of any size as no dog would appreciate getting on. Against having the Ridgeback is a hound, which means he can be very territorial desensitized to loud noises to. Especially after exercising, and has a lifespan of 10-12 years managing all kinds of weather a! Can carry over to their families additional cost to you ) fiercely loyal great! If they feel threatened the pack leader in a group of dogs falls between 10 13...
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