What do rhodesian ridgeback dogs look like

Although he may give the impression of a big, lazy hound, the Rhodesian ridgeback can be a threatening presence. This dog was bred to hunt and be a family protector.

The ridgeback is easily trained and has above-average tractability. Because of their innate abilities as guardians, ridgebacks should not be trained as protection dogs.

Their natural protective instinct should be subjected to elementary obedience training for control. Rhodesian ridgebacks are extremely tolerant dogs and excellent companions. Ridgebacks are gregarious animals, enjoying the company of other dogs; but families should be cautious about having several male dogs in one household, because this can lead to dominance struggles.

These dogs can be good with cats if brought up with them. They are good with children, but both child and dog must learn to behave around one another. Because of their size, younger and more excitable ridgebacks may knock over small children by accident. Ridgebacks are protective of children and other household members. These are excellent natural watchdogs and family protectors, but they do need to know that the caregiver is in charge.

Ridgebacks are not barkers, but they will be an alert watchdog to anything unusual. Athletic dogs, they can be climbers and you may find their natural curiosity taking over when there is something interesting on the other side of the fence! Not natural diggers, they may, however, create some cool summer "caverns" in your backyard if left unsupervised. Rhodesian ridgebacks are extremely clean dogs with little odor and minimal shedding.

They can be termed an "easy keeper" when it comes to food, but you may have to monitor caloric intake to keep them from overeating and becoming obese. The breed's history dates back to the 16th century when the first Europeans explored the interior on the Cape of Good Hope.

Here they discovered the Hottentot tribes living with a semi-domesticated dog that had hair along his spine — growing backwards. This is what we now refer to as the "ridge. The Rhodesian ridgeback was bred by the Boer farmers to meet their needs for a hunting dog in the wilds of Africa. They needed dogs that could flush game, pull down larger wounded game and guard their farms from prowlers and wild animals at night.

The farmers also needed a dog that could withstand the rigors of the African bush, handle the drastic changes in temperature from the heat of the day to the freezing night temperatures, be short-coated to avoid ticks in the brush, and that could go 24 hours without water.

This dog also had to be companion and protector to his wife and children. In a group of breeders in Zimbabwe set up a standard for the Rhodesian ridgeback that is virtually unchanged to this day. Several outstanding specimens were brought to the United States in the early s and, by , the Rhodesian ridgeback was the th breed admitted to the American Kennel Club.

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By Jan Reisen Mar 09, 3 Minutes. Mar 09, 3 Minutes. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a unique South African dog, a product of several breeds. Originally bred to pursue lions, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are superb hunters. An athletic breed, Ridgebacks loves to run. Rhodesian Ridgebacks only come in one color, wheaten. They make excellent family guardians. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is highly intelligent with a strong-willed, independent streak.

As a rule, the breed is not known as barkers. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are worthy competitors in various dog sports, including conformation. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dearly devoted companion. Selecting a Puppy How do you know what breed is right for your family? How do you find a reputable breeder? It's important to begin training your Rhodesian ridgeback immediately—as soon as you bring him home—using a positive-reinforcement method.

Enrolling in a puppy class can be a great way to add socialization—and distractions—to your training routine. As with any breed, it's important to properly socialize your Rhodesian ridgeback puppy from a young age.

Exposing your dog to various sights, sounds, people, and animals will help him grow up to be a well-adjusted and confident adult. Rhodesian ridgebacks are extremely loyal to those they love. They are patient and kind with kids , but smaller children run the risk of being knocked over if your ridgeback gets too rambunctious.

It's important to teach children how to properly interact with dogs and always supervise them when playing with any dog. When well trained and cared for, Rhodesian ridgebacks are incredibly faithful and affectionate with their owner, but they will usually tend to be aloof toward strangers. Rhodesian ridgebacks can be "too much hound" for a lot of people to handle. Bred to hunt, they have a very high prey drive and should always be kept on leash or in a secure fenced-in area.

These pups were bred to out-maneuver the kings of the jungle, so running after them if they get loose likely won't go well for you. Because they're so quick on their paws, it's important all owners get their ridgeback microchipped. Though considered a high-energy breed , the Rhodesian ridgeback is fairly adaptable to most living situations—including apartments —so long as they get out enough for a moderate amount of exercise. They make great hiking and running partners , but they are just as satisfied with a long walk followed by a rigorous play session with their owners.

They are extremely faithful and rely on a strong companion bond. The ideal home for a Rhodesian ridgeback has a large, physically fenced-in yard where he would be the only pet. Though they can be brought up to get along with other dogs, small animals—such as cats—will most likely be seen as prey.

Their strong personalities and independent will can test even the most experienced dog owners, and Rhodesians need mental stimulation to be happy. Their best partner: an experienced owner looking for an active companion to join them through their daily lives. It's important to consider your lifestyle before committing to any dog. Talk to a Rhodesian ridgeback breeder or rescue group about expectations to see if a Rhodesian ridgeback is a good fit for you.

Due to a genetic fault, not all Rhodesian ridgeback puppies are born with the breed's signature ridge. But they're still adorable! Rhodesian ridgebacks are low maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their short coats require simple weekly brushing to remove loose dead hair and keep a healthy shine, but they won't need more than an occasional bath. Some Rhodesian ridgebacks can be sensitive—and resistant—to grooming, especially nail trimming.

It's important to start weekly grooming practices at a young age, which will help your dog become comfortable when handled. Nails should be trimmed if you can hear them tapping against the floor. If your Rhodesian ridgebacks resists nail clippers, a nail grinder may have better results.

Regular brushing is also a good time to check for things like coat sheen dull hair can mean a lack of nutrients in his diet , nail length, and ear and dental health. Ear canals should be pale pink with very little—and fairly odorless—wax. Be sure to look for any signs of movement mites!

And while regular at-home care is important to your Rhodesian ridgeback's health, this doesn't replace a visit to the veterinarian. Always reach out to your vet with any concerns.

Rhodesian ridgebacks are intelligent and independent thinkers, which, unchecked, can lead to a domineering personality. It's important to begin obedience training as early as possible to establish a workable relationship. I've had some clients get a breed I normally wouldn't have suggested.