Rhodesian Ridgeback breed guide: Care, training, and fun facts
Breed guide overview
About Rhodesian Ridgebacks
Temperament
Exercise
Grooming
Training
Diet
Health
About the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed
Rhodesian Ridgebacks, also known as African Lion Hounds, are a remarkable dog breed with a rich history. Originating from southern Africa, they were originally bred by the indigenous Khoikhoi and San tribes.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks were bred to track and hold lions until the hunters arrived. They were later developed by European settlers in Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe and Zambia) to be versatile hunting dogs capable of tracking and guarding.
One of their distinctive features is the ridge of hair along their back that grows in the opposite direction to the rest of their coat, hence their name. Ridgebacks are strong and muscular, making them well-suited for various tasks.
Weight, height and life expectancy
They stand at an average height of 63-69cm for males and 61-66cm for females, with weights ranging from 29 to 41kg.
They can live for approximately 10 to 12 years.
What is the temperament of a Rhodesian Ridgeback like?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks possess a calm and confident temperament. They are known for their loyalty and affection towards their families. While they can be reserved with strangers, they are generally not aggressive.
Early socialisation is crucial to help them develop proper behaviour and be more comfortable around new people and animals. Ridgebacks have a strong protective instinct, making them excellent watchdogs.
They are good with children, but supervision is necessary, especially when interacting with younger kids due to their size and strength.
Our Rhodesian Ridgeback Community
“Togo is the most gentle dog you would meet. He loves cuddles and running as well as playing fetch with his toys. He loves a good walk in the woods/ park (off leash). He goes out with us to cafes, restaurants, shopping etc. He loves his treats… He loves food in general. He loves being around humans and dogs alike.”
Togo’s owner, Tatjana from Surrey
“He's big, daft, playful and is very friendly. He loves walks where he can sniff everything in sight. He would spend all day sleeping in the sun if he could! He loves tug-of-war with rope toys and likes to hunt for his toy after you hide it. He loves cuddles on the sofa and thinks he is small enough to sit on your lap :)”
Solo’s owner, Bronwyn from Worcestershire
How much exercise does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are an active breed that requires regular exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. They thrive in an environment where they can engage in daily activities. On average, they need at least 2 hours of exercise per day. This can include brisk walks, jogging, playing fetch, or participating in dog sports such as agility or tracking. Adequate exercise helps prevent boredom-related behaviours and promotes their overall well-being.
Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies have specific exercise requirements that need to be carefully managed. Until they reach around 18 to 24 months of age, their growing bodies are more susceptible to injuries. Puppies should engage in shorter and controlled play sessions to avoid overexertion.
Always consult with your veterinarian for personalised advice based on your puppy's specific needs.
Need an extra hand exercising your Rhodesian Ridgeback? Find a local borrower today.
Do Rhodesian Ridgeback need a lot of grooming?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a short and dense coat that requires minimal grooming. Their coat is easy to maintain and naturally repels dirt.
Regular brushing once or twice a week is usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition and remove loose hair. During shedding seasons, more frequent brushing can help manage the amount of hair around your home.
Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. If you can’t manage that often, just do it as often as you can.
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks easy to train?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are intelligent and independent thinkers, which can make training a bit challenging. However, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement techniques, they can be successfully trained.
Start training and socialisation early, as this breed tends to be more stubborn and dominant if not properly guided from a young age. Obedience training, basic commands, and early exposure to various environments are essential.
Keep training sessions interesting and fun to maintain their focus and motivation. Remember, positive reinforcement, such as treats, praise, and play, works best with this breed.
Want to experience spending time with a Rhodesian Ridgeback to decide if this breed is right for you? Borrow a Rhodesian Ridgeback near you.
What do Rhodesian Ridgebacks eat?
A balanced and nutritious diet is important for the health and well-being of Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Feed them high-quality large breed dog food suitable for their age, size, and activity level.
Puppies require a specially formulated large breed puppy food that supports their growth and development. Most puppies should be fed 3-4 times a day until 6 months old when this can be reduced to twice daily.
Follow the feeding guidelines provided by the food manufacturer and consult with your vet for specific dietary recommendations. Avoid overfeeding, as Ridgebacks have a tendency to gain weight if their calorie intake exceeds their energy expenditure.
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks healthy?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are generally a healthy breed, but like any other, they may be prone to certain health conditions. Being aware of these conditions can help you detect any potential problems and seek timely veterinary care. Some health concerns that can affect Rhodesian Ridgebacks include:
Bones and joints
Elbow Dysplasia - this condition is where there is an issue with how the bones fit together at the elbow joint
Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint, which can lead to discomfort and arthritis
Gastrointestinal
Gastric Dilation Volvulus (GDV) - this occurs when the stomach twists and gas and contents get trapped inside. It is a very serious condition and a vet should be contacted immediately!
Hormonal
Hypothyroidism - a condition where your dog does not produce enough thyroid hormone
Neurological
Dermoid Sinus - a congenital condition where a tubular defect develops along the spine, potentially causing infections or neurological problems
Epilepsy - A condition of the brain that causes dogs to have fits
This list is by no means comprehensive. If you have any concerns about the health of your dog or want to discuss further if a Rhodesian Ridgeback is right for you, consult with your vet.
Vet top tip
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are intelligent, independent, and strong-willed, so establishing clear boundaries and building trust early is key. Expose your Ridgeback to various environments, people, and other animals in a controlled and positive way to help them grow into a confident and well-mannered adult.
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Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog's health, contact your local vet.
