Copyright 2023 Puplore. It is a family dog, good with children and tolerant of other pets but what more should a family know before taking it in? The sensitivity isnt a by-product of their nature but serves as a helping hand for the owner and the dog. 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. They can also go well together with cats and get a close relationship with them. Recommended:20 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds You Mustnt Mess With. . You can opt for a puppy class where your pooch would learn with some other puppies. The decision to buy a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy or adopt an adult dog is a very significant decision. Therefore, everyone in the family needs to be on board with training regiments and have clear expectations for the dog. Keep your pooch hydrated too. She is a trainer who posts about dog training and behavior. With its strength and imposing stature, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is not one to underestimate. It isnt often present at birth but may not be apparent till the dog grows. Female Rhodesian Ridgebacks have shorter legs with a stocky body that carries . As with any dog breed, socialization is the key to having a well-balanced dog. Nevertheless, the Ridgeback isnt a breed fit for everyone. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are relatively healthy, Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not need any special training to be guard dogs. 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. I am currently the trainer/behavior consultant for DoggoMag LLC for the past two years. Because Rhodesian Ridgebacks are brave and tenacious dogs, they are unlikely to back down from a fight. Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks protect their owners? Feeding and exercise are two other doggy needs that must not be overlooked as they contribute to the dogs wellness. The breed was then in high demand and brought to countries across the world, including the United States. While the Ridgeback can get along with other dogs, same-sex aggression can occur amongst male dogs, especially unneutered ones. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a fair-sized dog, built for athleticism. Therefore, it is best not to leave your Rhodesian Ridgeback outside for significant periods. 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. What does a guard dog have to do with affection towards its family? 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. If you have never had a hunting breed before, it is probably best that the Rhodesian Ridgeback not be your first dog. This includes Amazon. Taking care of a Rhodesian Ridgeback can be much easier if youve had dogs in the past and have this breed in early training and socialization. This dog is a power-breed that needs a calm and assertive handler but they are overall easy to train when they are young. It hardly shows during the puppy stage but may become apparent during adulthood. Petfinder recommends that you should always take reasonable security steps before making online payments. Today's Rhodesian Ridgebacks continue to have a strong desire to chase prey and can show more independence than other dogs. The trademark of the Rhodesian Ridgeback became the ridge of fur that grows along the dogs spine. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not generally aggressive dogs. Because of their size, younger and more excitable ridgebacks may knock over small children by accident. Brave, confident, and calm, this lion hunter is a natural protector and watchdog. While some individual Ridgebacks may learn to live with livestock without giving into prey drive, this breed is known for having a very strong prey drive that applies to animals of all different sizes. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have even temperaments and tend to be very patient with children. Symptoms of cancer in the Rhodesian Ridgeback include swelling, injuries that dont heal, and some unexplained bumps. Their nails tend to grow quite fast; however, so they will need to be clipped regularly to prevent splitting and other issues. by What breed of dog hunts lions? Since their introduction to the U.S., their popularity has grown even more as family-oriented guard dogs. . Rhodesian Ridgeback Pitbull Mix Appearance. Ben Pierce is a canine behavioral and nutritional specialist, professional dog trainer, and the CEO of Puplore. Appearance This is a dog who wont think twice about fighting off a bear or cougar, and they arent afraid to take on human assailants either. 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. If they are raised together, many Rhodesian Ridgebacks will do well with cats, but these dogs do have a strong prey drive, and some individuals may extend their prey instinct to household cats. Consider the space you own; the freedom you can give it, and the training regimes you can continue before owning the breed. This is true across all breeds. Once in America, the dog breeds versatility made it a great companion for people of the outdoors. If you are looking for a guard dog that you can leave out in the yard, look elsewhere. Considering that Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally weigh around 70 to 85 pounds and are powerfully muscled, it takes a great deal of strength in order to contain them when they decide they would like to run. Its like a bridge between the two for effective communication. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are descended from the ridged Khoikhoi dog native to South Africa and various European breeds including Terriers and Greyhounds. 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. Even with good training, you never know when instincts can take over. This is what you will want to know. First-timers, laid-back owners, and people who want a friendly pooch would fare better with a different breed. Socialization should also start when the Rhodesian is a puppy. 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. Everything. ]. You can look into Ridgeback rescues, a mellow adult will be much easier to train . You must be conscious of the diseases this breed can get even before shopping or adopting one. I've written many topics in this space including how-tos, informational articles, care guides, breed guides, and more. 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. These canines have exceptional protective instincts that allow them to efficiently look after their home and family members. This should be done with a good toothbrush and vet-approved toothpaste. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a unique breed with stunning good looks, a loyal and affectionate personality, and a fascinating breed background. 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. This is especially true with a Rhodesian Ridgeback. These "ridge less" puppies ridgebacks can be sold for $500 as this is a serious fault. It is loving and loyal towards its family members and can even tolerate the excesses of kids. Home Dog Breed Info Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Family Dogs? Thai Ridgebacks make good companions for older children, as they may be too rambunctious for a toddler or baby. Rhodesian Ridgeback Names This handsome dog breed was created in Africa to be a versatile hunter and home guardian. The stubbornness, independent spirit, and intelligence of the Ridgeback make training a challenge. Without this, training for this dog breed is doomed before it even begins. Considering that Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally weigh around 70 to 85 pounds and are powerfully muscled, it takes a great deal of strength in order to contain them when they decide they would like to run. Their hound genes kick in when theres a threat to their owners. Make sure that your yard is extremely secure and resistant to your dog digging under the fence or climbing over it. Socialize it to curb the level of wariness it has. (2023), Are Bernedoodles Good Family Dogs? If you want other pets alongside a Ridgeback, keep them at a reasonable distance. Ridgebacks do not require much grooming, but brushing weekly or daily will help to reduce shedding in the house. Therefore, a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should be strong enough to control these dogs on leash. The Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is very friendly and gets easily happy. Ridgebacks are "high energy" dogs. Your email address will not be published. I also have ten pets of my own currently. 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. It should get a bath only when it gets stained outside. An essential requirement, besides training and socialization, is keeping up with their energy, and allowing them to have sufficient mental and physical stimulation. Have you ever heard of a dog that was bred to hunt the king of the jungle? This involves taking it to new places, introducing it to people and also animals. The adorable Rhodesian Ridgeback features a high prey drive, and the breed is quite independent. These dogs are highly energetic and often have more energy than their people, so let your dog run and play off the lead with other dogs. C/O Pet Educate4736 Royal Ave PMB 109160Eugene, OR 97402United States. Either way, at least 40 minutes of exercise should be enough. This can include gunshots, someone yelling, and loud vehicles. 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