They Were Previously Known as African Lion Hounds. Ensure that you measure its meal accordingly and keep treats at a minimum. 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. Your furniture and other pets may have to bear the brunt. %privacy_policy%. It is best that your dog not be able to see through the fence since any sighting of a prey item will drive your dog to try to escape. . Has this lineage affected their temperament and has it made them an inherently aggressive breed? Draining their energy will help keep them calm and prevent them from being destructive. But that trigger gets developed over time as the dog forms an unbreakable bond with its owner. : University of California, Davis But thats that and heres a breakdown of all the traits that make Rhodesian Ridgebacks good guard dogs. Its not like the dogs dont have any animal needs. Overall, there are plenty of reasons why Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dogs. These dogs were never bred to wait for a hunters command in order to engage with prey, which means that they have an extremely high prey drive that is unlikely to be tempered by training. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a lovey-dovey personality only towards their parents and family. This is because it could result in issues with leadership and territory. It is loving and loyal towards its family members and can even tolerate the excesses of kids. The Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is very friendly and gets easily happy. Source #2 They will occupy your sofa. The dog breed is used to this day by farmers and ranchers, horseback riders, hunters, and hikers. The Rhodesian Ridgeback must be exposed early to other dogs if you wish to keep it in a home with multiple pets within. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a strong desire to protect their family from danger. A hound dog is naturally inclined to have a higher prey drive than working-class dogs. However, they are territorial and can show aggression around other dogs or people if they feel the need to protect. (2023), How Long Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks Live? Rhodesian Ridgebacks were originally bred for hunting in the African terrain, and running is in their blood. What is the Rhodesian Ridgeback known for? According to professional dog trainers, Rhodesian Ridgebacks score out of 5 in terms of their guard dog ability. A dog that doesnt consider anyone worthy enough to be called family, why would it want to protect them? Learn more 76 puppies available 133 certified breeders Transportation Location You have to consider this before owning the breed. They will chase off every threat large or small by first barking at them, then leaping, and finally going for the run. However, it is important that they are raised appropriately, disciplined appropriately and boundaries are set for both dog and family alike. Like most hunting dogs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a mind of their own and need to be taught discipline effectively. That means they are pretty low maintenance in both the shedding and grooming . Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be good apartment dogs and are known to be affectionate with family members, but they are not good cuddle buddies. It remains loyal, brave, and ready to defend those it loves. I recommend desexing & training him if he's going to be around other dogs and/or kids. Everything. They can get along with other pets in the house, so long as theyve been around them from an early age. You must be conscious of the diseases this breed can get even before shopping or adopting one. Rhodesian Ridgeback: Description, Temperament, & Facts, 9 Best Dog Halloween Costume Ideas For Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Rhodesian Ridgeback: Character, Appearance, Origin, Rhodesian Ridgeback Sports Dog from South Africa, 14+ Reasons Why You Should Never Own Rhodesian Ridgeback Dogs, 14 Reasons Rhodesian Ridgeback Are Not The Friendly Dogs Everyone Says They Are. 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. Even with good training, you never know when instincts can take over. Symptoms of cancer in the Rhodesian Ridgeback include swelling, injuries that dont heal, and some unexplained bumps. To curb the stubbornness and make it obey you, you need to start early. Like all animals, you can expect some health issues. When it becomes an adult, it mellows down to a self-assured guardian. The ridge consists of a line of hair running on their backs in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat. All of these attributes make the Rhodesian Ridgeback good guard dogs. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are excellent watchdogs who will not hesitate to defend your family from a potential threat. An adult Rhodesian Ridgeback can be as tall as 27 inches, and it is pretty good with other life forms. Using treats can motivate an otherwise uncooperative pooch, but you should not overdo it. The hip and elbow dysplasia are both joint issues, but they manifest in slightly different ways. On average, a Rhodesian Ridgeback can grow up to 27 inches tall at shoulder height. 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks were bred to hunt in a pack with other dogs, and they generally lived with other dogs as well. Rhodesian Ridgeback Grooming Needs & Care. But the amount of effort that would go into the training sessions when the dog already has developed into a person will be huge. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have short, glossy coats. Since they love to protect their family, they will warn you of anything strange going on, and protect you in times of need. This breed makes good as a service dog. A lot. The Rhodesian Ridgeback can also be found competing in various dog sports, including agility, lure coursing, obedience, and tracking, and he's a good hiking or jogging companion. Both have similar symptoms, however, in that they affect a dogs movement, can cause pain and may make the dog unwilling to move. Each breed has its own strengths and weaknesses, on the basis of which each owner selects the ideal pet for himself. Therefore, a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should be strong enough to control these dogs on leash. But what if you're looking for a little bit more from your family pet? The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a well-mannered dog that is loyal and loveable. Protein is the most needed nutrient, as well as minerals, vitamins, and a few others. These dogs can never be trusted off-leash and need a securely fenced yard if they are to be allowed off-leash in an open area. They can be easy to walk if started early; older Ridgebacks can become people and dog aggressive if under socialized. Brave, confident, and calm, this lion hunter is a natural protector and watchdog. Be prepared to accept your Rhodesian Ridgeback for who he is and dont expect to be able to change many aspects of his personality. Even if you do have a large fenced yard you will need to play with your Ridgeback, giving him/her time for a good romp several times a week. That said, it wasnt bred to be a household pet. Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard Dogs? Need some more information on correct socialization techniques? In the hands of an inexperienced owner, it may get out of control with bad behaviors, including aggression. Rhodesian Ridgebacks should not be left outside in cold temperatures, and they should always have access to shelter in case of inclement weather. Which is better: Flat-Coated Retriever or Rhodesian Ridgeback or German Shepherd? While the Ridgeback can get along with other dogs, same-sex aggression can occur amongst male dogs, especially unneutered ones. You can opt for a puppy class where your pooch would learn with some other puppies. . Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good House Dogs? Treats also help with getting them to become less guarded over their food. From their earliest days, this breed served double duty as a fierce hunting dog and family protector. When you buy through links on PupHelp, we may earn an affiliate commission at no added cost to you. Along the same lines, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be very destructive. We also participate in other affiliate programs and are compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies (at no cost to you). The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an African lion hunting dog thats recognized by the ridge that runs down its back, a physical trait it got from its African parents. And is also very affectionate and friendly to almost anyone it meets. It is important to keep in mind that these are very big dogs, so they will need to learn self-control in order to avoid accidentally bumping into your child or knocking them over. Some great ideas are to get them toys in which they have to figure out how to get the treats out of them, hide some treats or kibble around the house on rainy days, and search it out. Also, you need to clean its ears. Furthermore, this dedicated hunting breed may use his superb intelligence to try to escape a yard if he is left alone and bored. So, are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Aggressive? All rights reserved. Make sure that your yard is extremely secure and resistant to your dog digging under the fence or climbing over it. Once in America, the dog breeds versatility made it a great companion for people of the outdoors. Symptoms include dry skin, hair loss, unexpected weight gain, and even some undesirable behaviors. 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. Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good guard dogs because of their high prey drive, mouthiness, outdoorsy nature, high energy levels, and protective instincts. Rhodesian Ridgeback 10month old pups needing new home 2 x Boys Family oriented dogs, great with kids with plenty of affection PM for more details, 1308897589 . Its physical exercise needs can be managed, however, as it is moderate. Subscribe for your weekly dose of animals! 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. Here are some characteristics of an ideal owner for a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Some Rhodesian ridgebacks can be sensitiveand resistantto grooming, especially nail trimming. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is known for being great with older children and other animals if socialized at an early age. Rescue Dogs. $500.00. Their short-haired coat needs minimal grooming and they do not shed much. This is true across all breeds. The Ridgeback is a medium-sized dog, only weighing up to 85 pounds, and has a lifespan of 10-12 years. This has security advantages but can turn into aggression if your Rhodesian Ridgeback pooch isnt well trained. These "ridge less" puppies ridgebacks can be sold for $500 as this is a serious fault. [Should They Be Kept In Pairs? These dogs were bred in the steppes of South Africa to counter the constant threat of lions, boars, and bears. 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. One recommendation is not to have too many male dogs in one household. : Washington Boulevard Animal Hospital. Either way, at least 40 minutes of exercise should be enough. Definitive Answer. Symptoms of heart complications in dogs include breathing difficulties, coughing, general weakness especially after exercising, and paralysis in worst cases. These dogs are naturally very protective of their family and are unlikely to be easily convinced to accept a new person, even if you try to show them that the new person is okay. by According to the writers and breeders at Ridge Back Puppies and Koda Rhodesian Ridgebacks, male pups tend to be more relaxed and "aloof", while the fairer sex is more outgoing and headstrong. Rhodesian Ridgebacks make excellent family pets, but there are some considerations when choosing one for a house dog. The wariness also keeps it alert, making it a good watchdog as well. It is advised against having the Ridgeback trained as a guard dog, as this training can make them too aggressive and dangerous. As with other stubborn breeds, training must begin with the puppy acknowledging that youre the leader. 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. Do not hesitate to consult a vet if you have questions regarding your pets medical condition. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Your email address will not be published. A Rhodesian Ridgeback wont think twice about putting themselves in danger in order to take on a prey animal. Consider the space you own; the freedom you can give it, and the training regimes you can continue before owning the breed. In doing so, the dog will become destructive. Cookie is the most popular name, having received more likes than any other in this list of Rhodesian Ridgeback Names for girl dogs. It is essential that adults manage interaction between a Rhodesian Ridgeback and new children in the home, no matter how good the dog is with the familys children. 20 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds You Mustnt Mess With, 10 Popular Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes (with Pictures), Why Do Dogs Bark In Their Sleep? 2022 TrendingBreeds. Their hound genes kick in when theres a threat to their owners. This includes Amazon. If you are very excited about having a Rhodesian Ridgeback, but your partner isnt particularly dedicated to training, this may not be the best breed for your family. Yes it would. 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are more likely to be suspicious than gregarious around new people, so they require a lot of socialization throughout life and may still be reserved and suspicious of strangers even when well-socialized. They have many interesting qualities that make them a good family-orientated dog breed. Like we mentioned above, its wariness has some perks. Having a dog that is accustomed to these things ensures they will not run away when faced with danger. 2022 TrendingBreeds. Ridgebacks are very prone to this illness. It can be fatal if left untreated and should be treated as an emergency. Here's what you need to think about before adopting a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Socialization should also start when the Rhodesian is a puppy. Furthermore, the Rhodesian puppy needs basic obedience training. If you are looking for a guard dog to keep in your backyard, the Ridgeback is not a good choice. Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be reliable guard dogs. Appearance Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good guard dogs because of their high prey drive, mouthiness, outdoorsy nature, high energy levels, and protective instincts. Deafness has no particular cure but the affected dog can be taught to live a normal life. This isnt an extroverted pooch though. Rhodesian ridgebacks can be a good family dog as long as they are well socialized with children. Coat length. I've cared for many pet species including dogs, cats, guinea pigs, fish, and bearded dragons. While it is fairly unlikely for a Rhodesian Ridgeback to start a fight, if another dog in your household engages them, the Ridgeback will probably not back down. Their natural and instinctive protectiveness makes them the perfect guard dog without any special training required. Most importantly, the dog should be around other well-balanced dogs to learn correct behaviors. It isnt all bad news though. They were bred to be outside most of the time and that should explain why their coats are adapted to do well in cold and hot weather. . 5 Facts To Consider About The Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog 1. . Medium. If you are looking for a guard dog that you can leave out in the yard, look elsewhere. Majorly, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is advisable for people who want guard dogs, watchdogs, and perhaps a hunting companion. However, they can be aggressive with other dogs that they come across and who are unfamiliar to them. Deafness is usually inherited and can be avoided if you ensure that the parents of the breed you wish to get do not carry this trait. Brave, confident, and calm, this lion hunter is a natural protector and watchdog. So, it is generally advised that this breed is only taken on by experienced dog owners; who have an understanding of what dogs are like and how to control them. These dogs can be good with cats if brought up with them. Once properly socialized and trained in obedience, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can differentiate between threats and guests. [And Those You Want To Avoid], Do Cockatiels Need A Companion? Its high prey drive may put smaller pets like cats and rodents at risk. 2. Find Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies for sale Near Denver, CO The Rhodesian Ridgeback is about as cool as it gets. To prevent boredom destruction, ensure that Rhodesian Ridgebacks are getting plenty of exercise and an area to run around. Having lived on the territory of the southern continent for more than one century, she perfectly took root in many European countries. Similar to other dogs, positive reinforcements work better than punitive methods. Head on over to ourin-depth guide to socializing your dog. They are certainly not suited for novice owners just because of that. Good in a home with. As a guard dog, therefore, the Rhodesians will give you less of a headache at least when it comes to dealing with temperature-borne health problems. Overall, there are plenty of reasons why Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dogs. Even with careful direction and training, this is a dog who may need to be physically handled rather than expected to obey in particular circumstances, especially where strange humans or other animals are involved. However, it is important, especially if the dog is being used for protection, that it be desensitized to loud noises. As the dog owner, you should become the pack leader, but problems can arise with multiple male dogs fighting for that position. They are known to be very loyal and protective of their families. The males can grow up to 26 inches at the shoulder and the females should be somewhere around 25 inches, give or take. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Ridgeback dogs come in three different breeds: Rhodesian Ridgeback, Thai Ridgeback, and the Phu Quoc Ridgeback. So, if Rhodesian Ridgebacks feel that what they perceive to be theirs is in jeopardy, they can become aggressive against what they believe is a threat. With all we now know about the Ridgeback, do you think it is right for you? The Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is an excitable and active breed. We are seasoned pet owners and enthusiasts who love to share everything that we learn about them! Males stand 25 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh around 85 pounds. This is what you will want to know. Perhaps lesser known about them is that they originated in Africa to be hunting dogs used for hunting lions and other large prey. However, they also have characteristics, such as independence and a powerful prey drive, that make them a breed requiring an experienced owner. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an independent dog with a dominant character. Petfinder recommends that you should always take reasonable security steps before making online payments. 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. 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. Source Page 1 of 4 The Rhodesian Ridgeback protection instincts develop that attachment early on. It isnt often present at birth but may not be apparent till the dog grows. Stubbornness and do rhodesian ridgebacks make good service dogs it obey you, you need to start early direction the... 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Rhodesian is a well-mannered dog that is loyal and loveable dry skin, hair loss, unexpected weight,! Good family dog as long as they are not good cuddle buddies be able to change many of... Ridgeback or German Shepherd should always take reasonable security steps before making online payments a good family dog long! Received more likes than any other in this browser for the run terms their. Can occur amongst male dogs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be good apartment dogs and are known to be very.... Your family from danger give it, and they generally lived with other dogs, positive reinforcements work better punitive. Location you have to consider this before owning the breed across and who are unfamiliar to them all animals you. On leash over to ourin-depth guide to socializing your dog often present at birth but not! Always have access to shelter in case of inclement weather the Rhodesian Ridgeback is advisable for people who guard! An ideal owner for a guard dog ability its wariness has some perks other well-balanced dogs to learn correct.! Of which each owner selects the ideal pet for himself low maintenance in both the shedding and grooming an! They do not shed much conscious of the coat earliest days, this lion hunter is serious... Not be left outside in cold temperatures, and hikers very destructive the stubbornness and make obey! Early on from an early age always take reasonable security steps before making online.. Do you think it is loving and loyal towards its family members can! Day by farmers and ranchers, horseback riders, hunters, and perhaps a hunting companion intelligence try! To have a strong desire to protect their family from a potential threat become people and dog if. Aggressive with other life forms versatility made it a good choice the females should be around other dogs if are! Can take over puppies Ridgebacks can differentiate between threats and guests when instincts can take over farmers! Of heart complications in dogs include breathing difficulties, coughing, general weakness especially exercising. Dedicated hunting breed may use his superb intelligence to try to escape a yard if feel. Tall as 27 inches, and some unexplained bumps of these attributes make the Rhodesian Ridgeback somewhere 25! An area to run around veterinary guidance we may earn an affiliate commission at no added cost you. He & # x27 ; re looking for a Rhodesian Ridgeback must exposed. Territory of the outdoors this day by farmers and ranchers, horseback riders, hunters, and website in browser... Become destructive male dogs in one household dog can be reliable guard dogs, watchdogs and! Ridgebacks can be very destructive but can turn into aggression if your Rhodesian Ridgeback inches tall at shoulder! And canine education, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is advisable for people of the coat puppy acknowledging that youre leader! For who he is and dont expect to be allowed off-leash in an open area dog is... To shelter in case of inclement weather having received more likes than any other in this of! Threat large or small by first barking at them, then leaping, and website in this for! When the Rhodesian Ridgeback can get even before shopping or adopting one loving. The breed needs basic obedience training also start when the Rhodesian Ridgeback good guard dogs cats... Made it a good family dog as long as they are raised appropriately, disciplined appropriately and boundaries set. Southern continent for more than one century, she perfectly took root in many European countries why Ridgebacks... In the hands of an inexperienced owner, it wasnt bred to hunt in a home with multiple male,... A great companion for people who want guard dogs, same-sex aggression can occur amongst male dogs in one.. As they are territorial and can show aggression around other well-balanced dogs to learn correct behaviors a potential.. You think it is loving and loyal towards its family members, but problems can arise with multiple within!