Like other large dog breeds, it is recommended that the Ridgeback gets regular exercise of at least one hour per day. Males stand 25 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh around 85 pounds. The Rhodesian ridgeback is a strong, muscular, balanced and athletic dog. He's smart but sometimes stubborn, with a moderate energy level and an easy-care coat. 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. Good With Small Kids?. 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. Thai Ridgebacks make good companions for older children, as they may be too rambunctious for a toddler or baby. Sep. Oct. Nov. Dec. Jan. As of February 2023, Rhodesian Ridgeback Names seem increasingly popular with new puppy owners. The unneutered male Ridgeback might also get aggressive towards other male dogs. These dogs are fearless and utterly devoted to protecting their families. Although I recommend that you train the pup from 4 months onwards, training it later in adult life bears fruit, too. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a lovey-dovey personality only towards their parents and family. Regular brushing can help remove the dead hair on its skin. Brave, confident, and calm, this lion hunter is a natural protector and watchdog. Females stand 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh around 70 pounds. 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. They are intelligent, stubborn, loyal, affectionate, fiercely independent, and fantastic with children making them a great family dog that is fun to have around. This type of dog is often bred by people who are . It is advised against having the Ridgeback trained as a guard dog, as this training can make them too aggressive and dangerous. This is especially true with the Ridgeback as they can become overly cautious of strangers and other animals. 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. You have to consider this before owning the breed. Once you return home from work or running your errands, your dog should be allowed to come inside with you, or you should go outside to spend time with your dog. It is now one of the most popular breeds. Source #3 They can sleep over 12 hours a day! In addition, Ridgebacks can be dominant or aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex. This involves taking it to new places, introducing it to people and also animals. The following has everything that you need to know about the Ridgeback, including information about the breeds personality and characteristics that an ideal owner must have. Therefore, everyone in the family needs to be on board with training regiments and have clear expectations for the dog. Ranchers and hunters often have to train Rhodesian Ridgebacks not to be gun shy, which animals to track, and to stay with a horse out on the trail. Any dog that will face off with a lion is surely not one to mess with. While they are known to have a mind of their own, they are an even-tempered gentle breed, especially around their families. From their earliest days, this breed served double duty as a fierce hunting dog and family protector. Bloating is a fatal illness that usually affects dogs of bigger sizes. And the American Kennel Club recognized the Rhodesian Ridgeback and admitted it into the registry in 1955. The prey drive in the Rhodesian Ridgeback is powerful, and they can end up mistaking smaller animals, including pets such as cats and rabbits, for prey and end up going after them. Any dog with the temperament and size to back it up has the potential to be a good guard dog. Once properly socialized and trained in obedience, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can differentiate between threats and guests. When walking your Rhodesian Ridgeback, its always best to have them on a leash to prevent them from taking off after smaller animals that they may see running and mistaking them for prey to go after. You are supposed to provide it ample space where it can exercise its guarding behavior or everything hound. Along the same lines, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be very destructive. As with any dog breed, socialization is the key to having a well-balanced dog. Easy to find. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a short, dense, smooth single coat. While thoroughly researched and meticulously checked, the content on Pet Educate does not constitute, nor should replace any pet medical advice. Finally, give it good dental care to prevent tooth problems and an excess of tartar. Ridgebacks were bred for endurance - therefore they will need a consistent, ongoing program of exercise. Answer: Yes! ]. Learn more about Bouncer today. Symptoms include an opening on the skin that is vulnerable to infection. 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. Here's what you need to think about before adopting a Rhodesian Ridgeback. : Washington Boulevard Animal Hospital. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known to be loyal and intelligent. I am currently the trainer/behavior consultant for DoggoMag LLC for the past two years. In a nutshell, yes, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good family dog. Their athleticism and activeness when combined with an enormous urge to protect their families make them take on the most ferocious animals you could see. As an Amazon Associate, TrendingBreeds.com earns from qualifying purchases. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has many wonderful and individual traits. Therefore, if you are considering a Rhodesian Ridgeback, you better make space on your couch. Different factors can cause heart complications in dogs, but the result is the same. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has great traits like loyalty, bravery, and an even temper. No wonder they were bred to contain bigger predators. In a nutshell, yes, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good family dog. Source #2 They will occupy your sofa. They can also have problems with obesity if overfed and under-exercised. They Were Previously Known as African Lion Hounds. This is a dog who wont think twice about fighting off a bear or cougar, and they arent afraid to take on human assailants either. Its physical exercise needs can be managed, however, as it is moderate. There was a time when Rhodesian Ridgebacks were hunting lions and other huge animals to keep them off the human settlement. They may need plenty of water and resources to thrive. So, are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Aggressive? 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. A dog that doesnt consider anyone worthy enough to be called family, why would it want to protect them? If you want to adopt a puppy and consider what breed to choose, we warn you NOT to get a Rhodesian Ridgeback. About Puplore Contact Us Privacy Policy Disclosure. Bloating occurs when the dogs stomach swells up as a result of food and other fluids that fill it. The breed has an excessive amount of energy, and like all dogs with enthusiasm, it is crucial to address it correctly, or the dog will start to act out. Source Page 1 of 4 Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not need any special training to be guard dogs. Therefore, it is best not to leave your Rhodesian Ridgeback outside for significant periods. #1 They will never let you drive a car. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good house dogs? Dog parks are excellent for Rhodesian Ridgebacks because you'll know that your dog can safely burn off some of his boundless energy. Their hound genes kick in when theres a threat to their owners. Make sure to have everything in order and ready for the new arrival to make the transition into a new environment as stress-free as possible. When Rhodesian Ridgebacks are young, feeding them by hand at times will help them to associate you with something good. They are known to be very loyal and protective of their families. Have you ever heard of a dog that was bred to hunt the king of the jungle? Once in America, the dog breeds versatility made it a great companion for people of the outdoors. Therefore, a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should be strong enough to control these dogs on leash. This dog can also be very vocal and barks or bays when it senses danger. They need an experienced owner who can enforce rules and boundaries and who knows how to help their dog meet set expectations. Most Popular Service Dog Breeds . Consider the space you own; the freedom you can give it, and the training regimes you can continue before owning the breed. Otherwise, these dogs tend to keep themselves quite clean. 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. Recommended:20 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds You Mustnt Mess With. See more. There are many ways you can help your Rhodesian Ridgeback from becoming dangerous or having aggression issues. First-timers, laid-back owners, and people who want a friendly pooch would fare better with a different breed. It isnt often present at birth but may not be apparent till the dog grows. A few rare health conditions found in Rhodesian Ridgebacks include deafness, eye and skin problems, and hypothyroidism. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a fair-sized dog, built for athleticism. But, are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good family dogs? The surgery . 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. Size. Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dogs? Rescue Dogs. 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. Weekly brushing and monthly bathing sessions can help decrease the shedding. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are hunting dogs with predatory instincts. This is what would make it a dignified guardian, not an aggressive terror. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are excellent watchdogs who will not hesitate to defend your family from a potential threat. Similar . Do not expect your Rhodesian Ridgeback to show self-control when on leash if they see something they want to chase. 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. Otherwise, they will need long walks for at least 30 - 45 minutes . Furthermore, they were expected to chase down prey like antelopes over huge distances and kill them for their master. . The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally easy to care for. It is a family dog, good with children and tolerant of other pets but what more should a family know before taking it in? Symptoms include dry skin, hair loss, unexpected weight gain, and even some undesirable behaviors. Someone Who Values a Guard Dog They are certainly not suited for novice owners just because of that. Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback Right For You? Many other dogs do not. Of the outdoors and even some undesirable behaviors self-control when on leash if they see something they want to a! 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