Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed Information & Characteristics

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a breed that has an average risk of becoming obese. Daily walks and a balanced diet of quality dry dog food can help maintain a healthy weight. An active lifestyle and monitoring weight regularly is recommended.

Unfortunately, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is not hypoallergenic, making it not a good choice for a dog lover who suffers from pet allergies.

Dignified
Loyal
Sensitive
Intelligent
Mischievous
Strong
Willed

Rhodesian Ridgeback will shed a negligible amount of hair. Some owners say that they do not shed, but that is not true. But the amount of shedding can be rather light than other dog breeds. If you do not want to deal with the hairs flying around in your home, then this breed is a perfect choice for you.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, this breed will alert their owner.

South Africa

african tribal dog, dane, mastiff, bloodhound, pointer, greyhound, terrier

American Canine Registry
American Kennel Club
America's Pet Registry
Canadian Kennel Club
Dog Registry of America Inc.
Federation Cynologique Internationale
Kennel Club of Great Britain
North American Purebred Registry, Inc.
American Canine Association, Inc.
Australian National Kennel Council
Continental Kennel Club
National Kennel Club
New Zealand Kennel Club
Rhodesian Ridgeback Club Of The US

1800s

Hound (AKC:1955)
Sighthounds & pariahs (UKC)

Brown
Amber

Black
Brown

Fawn
Red

The coat of a Rhodesian Ridgeback dog ranges in length from short to medium.

Straight

A Rhodesian Ridgeback can have a litter of 10-12 puppies on average. However, it's worth noting that the size of the litters can vary greatly. Factors that can influence litter size include the health of the mother, breeding history, and genetics.

The adaptability of Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs is a well-known trait, they are known for being able to adjust well to different living environments and lifestyle changes.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally considered to be healthy. However, like all breeds, they are susceptible to certain health issues and it is important to keep an eye out for them and address them with your veterinarian as needed.

Dermoid Sinus
Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
Bloat

Entropion
Deafness
Cataracts
Hypothyroidism
Degenerative Myelopathy

Hip
Hearing
Breeder Check For Dermoid Sinus
Skeletal
Thyroid Tests
X-Rays
Eye Examination

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for their high energy levels, so if you're looking for a more low-key dog, this breed may not be the best choice.

Rhodesian Ridgeback have above average social needs compared to other breeds.They thrive in environments where they have a lot of interaction with humans and other dogs.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog needs significant physical activity to maintain a healthy lifestyle. They are also well-suited for those who lead an active lifestyle and enjoy activities such as running, hiking, or other outdoor pursuits.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks dogs are tend to sleep less than other breeds, but they still require adequate sleep to maintain good health.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a breed of dog that is characterized by its minimal drooling, making it an ideal choice for people who dislike drool marks on their clothing.

Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs tends to bark less frequently than most other dogs. They tend to be quieter and less vocal than other breeds. They may only bark when necessary, such as to alert their owner of something or to communicate something. They do not bark excessively, and may not bark as much as other dogs in certain situations, such as when they are left alone.

These dogs are known for their strong territorial instinct and protective nature. They will fiercely defend their territory and are highly alert and vigilant against any perceived threat to their home and family.

Fetch, Eating Snacks, Walk, Run, Playing, Tug-of-war, Running, Sniffing, Jumping, Walking, Get massages, Facial kisses, Wandering, Catch treats, Play, Zoomies, Go get it, Everything, Cuddling, Walks, Swimming

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are medium-energy dogs and typically enjoy socializing and playing casual or even sustained games of chase with other dogs. They may also have occasional periods of barking or racing around the house.

There's really no limit to how far you walk your dog as long as they're comfortable. For Rhodesian Ridgeback, it's at least 10 miles / week. Just remember to build distance and stamina gradually over time.

In general most Rhodesian Ridgebacks usually need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily. This can be spread across the day and include all sorts of high-energy activities, like walking, running and playing.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a breed of dog that does not require extensive grooming.

Rhodesian Ridgeback should be brushed at least once a week. Of course you can give them more frequent brushes if you find that they are still shedding a lot

Slicker Brush
Deshedder
Nail Clipper

For an average 79-85 pound (36 - 39 kg) Rhodesian Ridgeback feed 2.8 cups daily. But, keep in mind, the amount you feed is going to be dependent on the quality of the food you are feeding.

The average cost of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is somewhere $2.10 - $2.70 per day.

The average per month expenses of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is between $55 - $73. This makes an average of $660 - $876 per year. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks has average obedience intelligence. But, they're also independent thinkers. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a breed with an exceptionally high IQ and may get into mischief if left to their own devices.

This dog breed is more sensitive than others and easily overwhelmed by new surroundings and people. They need gentle handling and a calm, stable home environment with positive reinforcement training.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are dogs that do well in apartments with sufficient exercise, but they would really appreciate a small yard.

A Rhodesian Ridgebacks typical characteristics indicate that this breed of dog is an ideal companion for kids and makes them family pets. Their gentle and protective nature and calm mentality make them gel along quickly with the younger humans

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are below average friendly toward cats. But with the right training and socialization, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be good with cats,

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are below average dog friendly dogs. Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs may not always get along well with other dogs they have not been raised with,

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are below average friendly around strangers. Keen of eye and sharp of tongue, most Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very quick to announce strangers at the door. Once the visitor comes in, some Rhodesian Ridgebacks will be friendly and outgoing. But many others have the standoffish or suspicious towards strangers.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a playful dog. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Rhodesian Ridgeback is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15-20 minutes, and it will mean the world to them.

Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are usually easy to train, but may require consistency to fully obey commands.