These powerful hunting dogs tend to be independent, like to make up their own minds about situations, and can even be stubborn and domineering. If you are looking for a guard dog to keep in your backyard, the Ridgeback is not a good choice. It can be fatal if left untreated and should be treated as an emergency. Heres what you need to think about before adopting a Rhodesian Ridgeback. If you want other pets alongside a Ridgeback, keep them at a reasonable distance. The hip and elbow dysplasia are both joint issues, but they manifest in slightly different ways. Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be good apartment dogs and are known to be affectionate with family members, but they are not good cuddle buddies. Has this lineage affected their temperament and has it made them an inherently aggressive breed? Domesticated, they're very independent, but also very loving. Symptoms of cancer in the Rhodesian Ridgeback include swelling, injuries that dont heal, and some unexplained bumps. Food: When getting a dog, no matter the breed it is important that it eats nutritious food that will keep it healthy. They are typically somewhat aloof to strangers; this is not to be confused with aggression, a Rhodesian Ridgeback with a good temperament will not attack a stranger for no reason. This is especially true with the Ridgeback as they can become overly cautious of strangers and other animals. To summarize, the Rhodesian Ridgeback has a very stable temperament, isn't aggressive, and is generally good with children - but clarify just what you are expecting with your breeder. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a unique South African dog, a product of several breeds. An essential requirement, besides training and socialization, is keeping up with their energy, and allowing them to have sufficient mental and physical stimulation. It wasnt until 1922, however, that the Rhodesian Ridgeback became a recognized dog breed from a stock of tribal dogs that had been crossbred with a European breed known for its hunting abilities. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known to be loyal and intelligent. I am also the main writer and chief editor here at Pet Educate; a site I created to share everything Ive learned about pet ownership over the years and my extensive research along the way. There will be few issues with children as long as they ( the children ) are taught respect for all animals. However, that isnt a usual occurrence. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is ready to defend its family with all it has. Rhodesian Ridgebacks can get along with other dogs in the same home if introduced to them at an early age and taught to live cohesively with them. Being aware of your Rhodesian Ridgeback and their body language can go a long way in helping them get to the point they can act out inappropriate behaviors. Wrapping Things Up. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Guard Dogs? Food guarding is a common problem amongst most hound breeds and starts from an early age. Are Rhodesian ridgebacks aggressive? You May Also Like:10 Popular Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes (with Pictures). These dogs are well known for their love and tolerance of children, and provided that they are trained to have manners in the home, they make excellent family dogs. She is a trainer who posts about dog training and behavior. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Family Dogs? Your Rhodesian Ridgeback wont hesitate to intimidate intruders, and if the intruder insists on coming into their territory, there is an excellent choice that the dog will engage with them quite ferociously. March 31, 2021, 11:12 amupdated December 2, 2021, 9:04 am. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a breed of dog known for the line of fur that trails down their spine, giving them their name. Your email address will not be published. The Rhodesian Ridgeback sheds a little, which makes it not hypoallergenic. PupHelp.com is reader supported, and is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. Our only goal is to give you the information that you need to ensure that your dog lives a long, happy, and healthy life so that you and your pup can make the most of, and enjoy every single second that you spend together. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not generally aggressive dogs. This is a dog who is more likely to have his own thoughts about things and respond accordingly than to look to you for direction. 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are built for warm temperatures and hot climates and will not tolerate the cold. Though chewing and nipping are two dominant behaviors in this breed, these dogs have a low chance of biting. DisclaimerOur articles are not substitutes for professional veterinary guidance. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good with Other Dogs, Cats, and Pets? Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks protect their owners? They don't have much odor, and their grooming requirements are minimal. It may be best to keep Rhodesian Ridgebacks only with other large breed dogs. They are hound dogs with a high prey drive that need regular exercise and do not do well living in small areas. Early socialization is key and it's better to start as soon as possible to avoid possible aggression toward other dogs and strangers. Minor biting is more common in puppies as it is an attention-seeking behavior. These pooches can defend their loved ones against most kinds of external harm or . Rhodesian Ridgebacks have even temperaments and tend to be very patient with children. These "ridge less" puppies ridgebacks can be sold for $500 as this is a serious fault. It seems like a minor disease but is a fast killer. Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs do best when a family member is at home during the day or if their workplace is dog-friendly so they can take the dog at work. In addition to training and socialization, there are other steps you can take to ensure the protection of people and other animals around your Rhodesian Ridgeback. While the Ridgeback loves its family and is calmly affectionate towards family members, it tends to be aloof at strangers. If a hunting dog who terrified lions has to become a family dog, then there must be some considerations the potential owner should not overlook. In addition to being used for hunting . Puphelp.com is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. These dogs were bred to hunt in a pack, and they generally do well with other large dogs, although some individuals may view smaller dogs and cats as potential prey. The Rhodesian Ridgeback sounds just as ferocious as it was bred to be, as these dogs were originally bred to hunt lions and other large animals in South Africa. This brings up a lot of questions that beg for answers. From their earliest days, this breed served double duty as a fierce hunting dog and family protector. See more. They need an experienced owner who can enforce rules and boundaries and who knows how to help their dog meet set expectations. Characteristics like independence, high prey drive, and reservation with new people are unlikely to be altered even with extensive training and socialization. On the other hand, if you want a dog who will protect your home and property from any potential intruders, the Ridgeback is a great choice. If they turn their attention to you, be sure to reward them with a treat. Rough handling will not be accepted by the Rhodesian Ridgeback. An adult Rhodesian Ridgeback can be as tall as 27 inches, and it is pretty good with other life forms. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Guard Dog Any dog that will face off with a lion is surely not one to mess with. Along the same lines, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be very destructive. While it does play the role of a companion now, it cant be suitable for every family like natural companions will. Do not hesitate to consult a vet if you have questions regarding your pets medical condition. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a versatile dog with a rich history. Nails should be trimmed if you can hear them tapping against the floor. You must neuter a male Ridgeback to reduce this tendency. Amazon Affiliate DisclosureThis site 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. The powerful whip-like tail can easily clear ornaments off of coffee and end tables, so it is best to organize your home with your Ridgeback in mind. Wash it with a good shampoo. They were bred to hunt lions, for the love of God. Puppies . The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large dog, the males can weigh between 80 and 90lbs while the females will weigh somewhere in the range of 65 and 78lbs. Treats also help with getting them to become less guarded over their food. Answer: Yes! Rhodesian Ridgebacks are excellent watchdogs who will not hesitate to defend your family from a potential threat. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. This instinct can carry over to their food, favorite toys, and treats. 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally make great family dogs, as they are tolerant and even-tempered. When untreated, both illnesses can render a dog lame. A Ridgeless Rhodesian Ridgeback is a type of dog that does not have the ridge gene and can't produce ridged offspring like a Chihuahua or Chesapeake Bay retriever. While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Today's Rhodesian Ridgebacks continue to have a strong desire to chase prey and can show more independence than other dogs. It can get pretty messy when the African Lion Hounds run loose on another animal especially, a male of its breed (when unneutered), a cat, or a stranger with malicious intent. This dog can also be very vocal and barks or bays when it senses danger. However, not all Rhodesian Ridgebacks will like to cuddle it does vary dog by dog and by their own individual personality. To prevent boredom destruction, ensure that Rhodesian Ridgebacks are getting plenty of exercise and an area to run around. These dogs need to be with their family and will pine for them if kept alone. All of these attributes make the Rhodesian Ridgeback good guard dogs. Here are some characteristics of an ideal owner for a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Do not ignore any abnormal signs like smelly ears or redness. Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good guard dogs because of their high prey drive, mouthiness, outdoorsy nature, high energy levels, and protective instincts. This is what you will want to know. They may also cuddle to keep warm or to get closer to their owner if they perceive there to be a threat. What does a guard dog have to do with affection towards its family? In the hands of an inexperienced owner, it may get out of control with bad behaviors, including aggression. Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint is loosely fitted while elbow dysplasia happens when the elbow isnt well-formed. Furthermore, this dedicated hunting breed may use his superb intelligence to try to escape a yard if he is left alone and bored. With all we now know about the Ridgeback, do you think it is right for you? Later on, the tribal dog became admired by settlers and tribes across Africa. 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. The Golden Retriever Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix (also called a "Golden Ridgeback") is a unique hybrid of two long-standing and beloved breeds. This breed makes good as a service dog. For a guard dog to give everything to protecting something or someone, attachment is a must. Well also take a look at some potential causes of aggression and how to prevent them so be sure to keep on reading if you are thinking of adopting one for you and your family. You will fail at this. This breed does not do well in apartment living or being kept alone all day and will act out in different ways, none of which are useful if held in these confined ways. Ben Pierce is a canine behavioral and nutritional specialist, professional dog trainer, and the CEO of Puplore. Good training will prevent the aloofness to develop into aggression, which happens only if this breed isnt trained enough. Make sure that your dogs restrained enough to not attack them. Cookie is the most popular name, having received more likes than any other in this list of Rhodesian Ridgeback Names for girl dogs. 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. Because it is odorless and doesnt get dirty with ease, the Ridgeback doesnt need too much bathing. List Of 11 Dog Commands And Hand Signals [Latest 2023]. The loyal Rhodesian Ridgeback can be a wonderful choice for a household with children if they are supervised and both dog and child are taught proper interaction. It is highly unlikely that you will be able to train your Rhodesian Ridgeback to show self-control on the leash if they see something that they want to chase. Some Ridgebacks will pursue and seize cats and other fleeing creatures. Rhodesian Ridgeback. Head on over to ourin-depth guide to socializing your dog. What is the Rhodesian Ridgeback known for? Therefore, everyone in the family needs to be on board with training regiments and have clear expectations for the dog. The adorable Rhodesian Ridgeback features a high prey drive, and the breed is quite independent. 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. Depending on your childrens size, you may also want to warn them about the potential of being knocked down by the dog, even though the dog is not trying to hurt them. Preventing aggression in Rhodesian Ridgebacks is definitely possible, and there are a couple of things you can do to ensure they grow up to calm around everyone and other animals. As a larger dog breed, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is able to sprint and maintain speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Puplore was founded to provide dog owners with breed information and advice on canine care, health, and nutrition and to help them to raise their four-legged friends from puppydom to adulthood. This breed is very common in Africa and is much cheaper. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good house dogs? Yes it would. If you learn to know when they are about to act out, redirect their attention with a toy or treat. The Rhodesian Ridgeback protection instincts develop that attachment early on. Their concept of what qualifies as prey includes lions, so dont expect this dog to back down from anything. As with other stubborn breeds, training must begin with the puppy acknowledging that youre the leader. Sep. Oct. 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