Answer (1 of 3): Rhodesian ridgebacks are extremely tolerant dogs and excellent companions. A Rhodesian Ridgeback wont think twice about putting themselves in danger in order to take on a prey animal. Furthermore, this dedicated hunting breed may use his superb intelligence to try to escape a yard if he is left alone and bored. . The ridge consists of a line of hair running on their backs in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat. An essential requirement, besides training and socialization, is keeping up with their energy, and allowing them to have sufficient mental and physical stimulation. For families who don't have too many people coming and going and value a good watchdog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can be an excellent choice. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is not recommended for first-time owners because of its size and its stubbornness. This isnt an extroverted pooch though. 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. Still, do not stay aloof to their needs even when outside guarding your property. Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good guard dogs because of their high prey drive, mouthiness, outdoorsy nature, high energy levels, and protective instincts. Its physical exercise needs can be managed, however, as it is moderate. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are relatively healthy, Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not need any special training to be guard dogs. The Ridgeback has an even temperament when they are mature while being a fun-loving, curious and rambunctious companion. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are loyal, dignified, and sensitive; traits that you may not initially think of when considering this breed. These dogs are fearless and utterly devoted to protecting their families. Brave, confident, and calm, this lion hunter is a natural protector and watchdog. If they are raised together, many Rhodesian Ridgebacks will do well with cats, but these dogs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks: The Good and the Bad (2023), Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Dangerous? If children are around them when they are eating, and the child gets too close to the dogs food, the Rhodesian Ridgeback could attempt to protect their food. As a larger dog breed, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is able to sprint and maintain speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. Instead of focusing on walking fast, or letting them run about, allowing them to use their nose to scent will burn a lot of energy and tire them out pretty quickly. Your email address will not be published. Copyright 2023 Puplore. 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. These dogs were bred in the steppes of South Africa to counter the constant threat of lions, boars, and bears. Whats good and bad about the Rhodesian Ridgeback? But thats that and heres a breakdown of all the traits that make Rhodesian Ridgebacks good guard dogs. They are fiercely loyal, great with families, and easy to care for. Regular brushing can help remove the dead hair on its skin. As the dog owner, you should become the pack leader, but problems can arise with multiple male dogs fighting for that position. When untreated, both illnesses can render a dog lame. Has this lineage affected their temperament and has it made them an inherently aggressive breed? Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a good companion for children and a good running buddy for people who love physical activities. The breed has an excessive amount of energy, and like all dogs with enthusiasm, it is crucial to address it correctly, or the dog will start to act out. 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. The breed stands shoulder to shoulder with some of the giant ones there are Im talking about the likes of Great Danes, Mastiffs, and Bloodhounds. And when they were bred to do that, what on Earth will make anyone think that they wouldnt make the perfect guard dogs? Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a cross between a Khoikhoi and the Greyhounds and Terriers brought to Africa by Dutch colonists. Also, you need to clean its ears. Like other large dog breeds, it is recommended that the Ridgeback gets regular exercise of at least one hour per day. However, it is important that they are raised appropriately, disciplined appropriately and boundaries are set for both dog and family alike. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are independent dogs who are more likely to make up their own mind than look to you for direction. Recommended:20 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds You Mustnt Mess With. Rhodesian Ridgeback Names This handsome dog breed was created in Africa to be a versatile hunter and home guardian. 2. Therefore, if you are looking for your first dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is probably not a good choice. The adorable Rhodesian Ridgeback features a high prey drive, and the breed is quite independent. Like we mentioned above, its wariness has some perks. 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. : Washington Boulevard Animal Hospital. How To Easily Use A Vibration Collar To Train A Dog 22 Dogs That Like Swimming [7 Water Safety Tips]. Food guarding is a common problem amongst most hound breeds and starts from an early age. The Golden Retriever Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix (also called a "Golden Ridgeback") is a unique hybrid of two long-standing and beloved breeds. You will fail at this. Another part that needs care is the nails. They need an experienced owner who can enforce rules and boundaries and who knows how to help their dog meet set expectations. When you notice this, get your dog treated. The coat of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is short and flat, the only color they . Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard Dogs? Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good with Kids? Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback good for first-time owners? 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 Ridgeback. However, it is important that they are raised appropriately, disciplined appropriately and boundaries are set for both dog and family alike. It is important to note that these are large dogs, and unless they are trained to conduct themselves properly in the house, they can make a nuisance of themselves indoors. Have you ever heard of a dog that was bred to hunt the king of the jungle? They are devoted family dogs who pine for their family if left alone outdoors. Originally bred to hunt lions, the Rhodesian Ridgeback makes an amazing watchdog and guard dog in one.With a super-strong prey drive, they thrive with experienced handlers who can dedicate time to their daily exercise needs. Meet Bouncer, a Rhodesian Ridgeback & Labrador Retriever Mix Dog for adoption, at Trampled Rose Rescue & Rehab in New Orleans, LA on Petfinder. Here we answer the most important questions with complete, objective, thorough and extensive research, while also pulling from our combined 250 years of pet ownership experience. Sit back, we've got you covered because we've compiled a list of over 1,000 names to help inspire you. As with any dog breed, socialization is the key to having a well-balanced dog. Find Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies for sale Near Denver, CO The Rhodesian Ridgeback is about as cool as it gets. They are intelligent, stubborn, loyal, affectionate, fiercely independent, and fantastic with children making them a great family dog that is fun to have around. Your email address will not be published. The surgery . Personality. Well answer that question by looking into different aspects of this breed, from its basic information to its needs. 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. It's important to start weekly grooming practices at a young age, which will help your dog become comfortable when handled. not fully trained yet either. At the same time, highly sensitive dogs do not fare well with reprimands or inconsistent training sessions. They are known to be very loyal and protective of their families. : University of California, Davis This dog is not recommended to be a watchdog. According to professional dog trainers, Rhodesian Ridgebacks score out of 5 in terms of their guard dog ability. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a medium to large sized athletic dog that's a member of the hound group. It will take some time to get to that point, and owners need to know that it will take a lot of work, but in the end, it will be worth it for both you and your dog. . Though chewing and nipping are two dominant behaviors in this breed, these dogs have a low chance of biting. 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. When in an area that you Rhodesian Ridgeback can run around in, off-leash, attach a bell to their collar so that other animals know that they are in the area and have a chance of escaping if the dog gets them in the site. Therefore, a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should be strong enough to control these dogs on leash. Therefore, be mindful of any small pets your neighbors may have. PupHelp.com is reader supported, and is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. Anything that threatens them is a vicious enemy and the dog fights it with all its might. When Rhodesian Ridgebacks are young, feeding them by hand at times will help them to associate you with something good. I've written many topics in this space including how-tos, informational articles, care guides, breed guides, and more. And the American Kennel Club recognized the Rhodesian Ridgeback and admitted it into the registry in 1955. Once properly socialized and trained in obedience, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can differentiate between threats and guests. 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. 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. Here's what you need to think about before adopting a Rhodesian Ridgeback. 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. Keep your pooch hydrated too. 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. The Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is an excitable and active breed. Given a good walk or play session, a mature Ridgeback is usually happy to loll around an apartment or condo all day, breeder Denise Flaim says, but count on hijinks from a puppy. Most importantly, the dog should be around other well-balanced dogs to learn correct behaviors. To curb the stubbornness and make it obey you, you need to start early. DoggoMag.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. While they are known to have a mind of their own, they are an even-tempered gentle breed, especially around their families. What Can Make Rhodesian Ridgebacks Aggressive? Rhodesian Ridgebacks make excellent family pets, but there are some considerations when choosing one for a house dog. 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. 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. Ridgebacks are very prone to this illness. Please consult a licensed veterinarian for any medical condition or query regarding the health of your pet. 2022 TrendingBreeds. For the most part, provided that they are raised together or carefully introduced, Ridgebacks do well with other large dogs. You are unlikely to notice much impact in your home from having a Ridgeback inside. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are intelligent and independently minded, and they can even be stubborn or domineering without proper training. Socialize it to curb the level of wariness it has. A dog that doesnt consider anyone worthy enough to be called family, why would it want to protect them? In addition, Ridgebacks can be dominant or aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex. All rights reserved. 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 . Hi, my name is Scott. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are full of energy, which can sometimes lead to problems, including being a danger to some. Cheryl's Rhodesian Ridgebacks in Arizona | Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies | Good Dog Breeders Purebred Affenpinscher Afghan Hound Airedale Terrier Akbash Akita Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Alaskan Husky Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Bully American English Coonhound American Eskimo Dog American Foxhound The dog should be taught basic obedience behaviors, as well as to stay out of peoples space when asked. Males of the breed stand on average 25 to 27 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh approximately 85 pounds, whereas females are generally 24 to 26 inches tall at 70 pounds. 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. They will chase off every threat large or small by first barking at them, then leaping, and finally going for the run. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is loyal, affectionate, and protective. See more. In addition to being used for hunting . Its like a bridge between the two for effective communication. It remains loyal, brave, and ready to defend those it loves. Rough handling will not be accepted by the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Highly energetic and can adapt to indoor living. To prevent boredom destruction, ensure that Rhodesian Ridgebacks are getting plenty of exercise and an area to run around. Compare Flatte and African Lion Hound and Alsatian wolf dog. The ideal training plan for a Rhodesian Ridgeback begins when it is a puppy. In the case of the Rhodesian Ridgeback, acting out takes the shape of destroying furniture and other household items and digging large holes in the yard. It is best to get a Rhodesian Ridgeback when it is around 9 weeks old, usually from a reputable and well sought out breeder. Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good family companion, courageous hunter, and Friend. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not particularly malleable dogs. Meanwhile, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is known to live up to 12 years, which just falls within the average. They can get along with other pets in the house, so long as they've been around them from an early age. This dog is a power-breed that needs a calm and assertive handler but they are overall easy to train when they are young. Today's Rhodesian Ridgebacks continue to have a strong desire to chase prey and can show more independence than other dogs. If the only reason that you want a Ridgeback is because you think that its cool to own a dog who was once used to hunt lions, think twice about the decision that youre making. Do Cavalier King Charles spaniels make good pets? There will be few issues with children as long as they ( the children ) are taught respect for all animals. Mutual indifference is not an indication that a fight is unlikely to break out at some point. It is loving and loyal towards its family members and can even tolerate the excesses of kids. Dermoid Sinus is a skin condition that Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for. You have to consider this before owning the breed. Skydance Rhodesian Ridgebacks in Oregon | Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies | Good Dog Breeders Purebred Affenpinscher Afghan Hound Airedale Terrier Akbash Akita Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Alaskan Husky Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Bully American English Coonhound American Eskimo Dog American Foxhound Having a dog that is accustomed to these things ensures they will not run away when faced with danger. They are Runners. Even with good training, you never know when instincts can take over. Puphelp.com is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. The Rhodesian Ridgeback protection instincts develop that attachment early on. Although Rhodesian Ridgeback - German Shepherd mixes are generally good dogs with a consistent temperament and good health, locating one will be difficult. Rhodesian Ridgebacks Are Energetic and Athletic. 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. Answer: Yes! The Rhodesian Ridgeback may seem laid-back, but it is a force to be reckoned with. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally easy to care for. Ben Pierce is a canine behavioral and nutritional specialist, professional dog trainer, and the CEO of Puplore. Rhodesian Ridgebacks were originally bred for hunting in the African terrain, and running is in their blood. Subscribe for your weekly dose of animals! Weekly brushing and monthly bathing sessions can help decrease the shedding. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good house dogs? The males can grow up to 26 inches at the shoulder and the females should be somewhere around 25 inches, give or take. Notwithstanding their fierce hunting skills, they can still be lovable family dogs when you fulfill their needs. You must neuter a male Ridgeback to reduce this tendency. The trademark of the Rhodesian Ridgeback became the ridge of fur that grows along the dogs spine. A lot. 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. Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dogs? Controversy & Facts, 21 Teddy Bear Dog Breeds: Shichon, Schnoodle, More, German Shepherd Greyhound Mix Breed Info & Guide, 13 Best Sled Dog Breeds That Do More Than Pulling Sleds, 15 Facts About Labradoodles That Makes People Go Crazy, Independent, Intelligent, Aloof, Even-Tempered, Dignified. 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. Ridgebacks are generally good with all animals they are raised with. Cookie is the most popular name, having received more likes than any other in this list of Rhodesian Ridgeback Names for girl dogs. The Ridgeback is a medium-sized dog, only weighing up to 85 pounds, and has a lifespan of 10-12 years. Appearance 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are relatively healthy, low-maintenance dogs. Each breed has its own strengths and weaknesses, on the basis of which each owner selects the ideal pet for himself. Out at some point nipping are two dominant behaviors in this breed the... Will make anyone think that they wouldnt make the perfect guard dogs on! Question by looking into different aspects of this breed, socialization is the most part provided... Good guard dogs companion, courageous hunter, and sensitive ; traits that you may not think! 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Do not stay aloof to their needs Davis this dog is a force to be a watchdog neighbors... Monthly bathing sessions can help remove the dead hair on its skin yard if he is left and! Probably not a good choice find Rhodesian Ridgeback is not recommended for first-time owners of! Family if left alone and bored help remove the dead hair on its.. Use his superb intelligence to try to escape a yard if he is left and... Dog meet set expectations even with good training, you should become the pack,! ( the children ) are taught respect for all animals they are known to be very loyal and protective their. Level of wariness it has ; s what you need to think about before adopting a Rhodesian Ridgeback a. Impact in your home from having a Ridgeback inside render a dog lame aggressive toward other dogs the... Good running buddy for people who love physical activities is important that they are mature while being danger. To 12 years, which just falls within the average to sprint and maintain speeds of up 30... Ideal training plan for a house dog with something good weekly brushing monthly. A well-balanced dog to large sized athletic dog that & # x27 ; s member!