The Rhodesian Ridgeback Pro’s and Cons
The Rhodesian Ridgeback can be a great pet if you are a responsible owner. With the right care, you can make sure your dog is healthy and happy. Here are some important tips to keep in mind when caring for this animal.
Origins
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are one of the most popular breeds in Southern Africa. They are bred to be strong, alert and independent. With a firm training, they become loyal family members.
These dogs were originally used to hunt lions. Their famed ridge on their back is a mark that can help them distinguish them from other animals. The ridge should be clearly defined and the ridge should start behind the dog’s shoulders and taper towards the hips.
This breed was imported into Canada and England during the 1930s. After being introduced in these countries, they became extremely popular. Breeders began to cross breed them with other types of dogs.
The name Rhodesian Ridgeback was derived from the distinctive ridge that runs along the back of this dog. There are also reports that this dog is thought to have a kinky tail and a brown nose.
The ridge that runs along the back of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is considered a sign of strength and independence. While these dogs are generally healthy, proper testing should be carried out for eye issues, elbow dysplasia and thyroid health.
These dogs are well-balanced and agile. However, they are not very large. At their full maturity, males should weigh about 80 pounds, while females average about 71 pounds.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be found in a variety of colors. They can have a dark brown or black nose, with white markings on the paws and chest. A light wheat color is also a possibility.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not only used for hunting, but are also trained to be a companion and work as a teammate. When trained well, they are excellent hunters of upland game, such as wild boar, mountain lion and bobcat.
Temperament
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a powerful dog. This is a breed that was developed in Africa and is now recognized as an official purebred of South Africa. It is a hound that was originally bred for endurance and protection. Despite its great strength, the Rhodesian is also a very social dog.
As with any dog, a Rhodesian Ridgeback requires plenty of activity and training. Those who own one will appreciate their protective streak and loyalty. They make great family pets, especially if raised with children. Nevertheless, these dogs can be a little wary of strangers.
When looking for a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy, it’s important to find a reputable breeder. Reputable breeders will test their dogs for genetic diseases, and they’ll also be screened for temperament. These dogs will be well-tempered and intelligent, and will make excellent companions for you and your family.
Breeders of the Rhodesian Ridgeback have been located all over the United States. Although they’re a purebred dog, there are still some Rhodesian Ridgebacks in shelters. In addition, many Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog breeders have abandoned the heritage breed.
While the Rhodesian is known for its ridged back, its coat is actually short and easy to care for. The hair starts behind the shoulders and continues down before the hips. Usually, the ridge is two inches wide at its widest point.
A Rhodesian Ridgeback should be leashed when on a walk. To protect your dog, always keep it fenced in.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are smart and are capable of endurance. They also excel in agility, nose work, and lure coursing.
However, if you’re a first-time dog owner, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is not a good choice. This dog is highly aggressive toward other males if not neutered. Likewise, it can be wary of strangers and will bark to let you know that something is out of place.
Exercise needs
If you’re looking to adopt a Rhodesian Ridgeback, you’ll need to understand the exercise needs of this dog. It is a very athletic breed that needs a lot of physical and mental exercise. You can also expect this dog to live up to ten to twelve years.
As long as you meet their needs, you should be able to enjoy a life with your Rhodesian Ridgeback. These dogs are gentle, affectionate, and loyal. They are also good with children. However, they can be very aggressive and stubborn.
They need daily exercise to burn off their energy. They can be very protective of their homes and family. That is why you need to make sure they have room to play.
You should also take your Rhodesian Ridgeback to the vet if you notice any signs of health issues. Your veterinarian can provide you with medication to treat them. In addition, you’ll need to follow up with regular checkups to ensure your Rhodesian Ridgeback lives a long and healthy life.
You’ll also need to keep your Rhodesian Ridgeback well-fed. Especially if they’re a puppy, they can have trouble digesting their food. This can lead to joint problems.
If you’re a first time dog owner, you should think twice before adopting a Rhodesian Ridgeback. The breed is not ideal for new owners, as they can be stubborn.
This breed can be a wonderful family pet, as long as you make sure you meet its exercise needs. A Rhodesian Ridgeback needs at least an hour of vigorous activity each day.
When you decide to adopt a Rhodesian Ridgeback, it is best to have a large backyard or fenced yard. Ideally, you’ll also want to provide a comfortable indoor area where the dog can play.
Dental hygiene
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dog that is a great companion for many people. It is very loyal and protective. They are also friendly and get along with other dogs and animals. However, they have some health issues that you need to be aware of.
One of the most common conditions in Rhodesians is degenerative myelopathy. Like Lou Gehrig’s disease in humans, the disease causes weakness in the hind legs. This disease will eventually lead to paralysis of the hindquarters. You can help your dog fight the disease by providing dietary supplements.
Eye disorders can also occur in Rhodesians. Glaucoma is a painful eye condition. In advanced cases, the eyes may appear bulging or enlarged. A doctor can examine your dog’s eyes for signs of glaucoma.
Entropion is another eye problem that can affect any breed of dog. When the lower eyelid rolls inward, it rubs against the cornea, causing pain and even blindness.
If your Rhodesian Ridgeback has been affected by any of these problems, it is important to take action. Your veterinarian will determine if treatment is necessary.
While it is not known for sure, some of the Rhodesian Ridgeback’s parents might have been carriers of dermoid sinus, a condition that can be very painful. Some puppies with dermoid sinus are treated by surgical removal of the sinus, while others are euthanized.
Other medical conditions that can affect Rhodesian Ridgebacks include distichiasis, an inherited disorder that causes extra hairs to grow inside the eyelid. These hairs can cause ulcers on the surface of the eye and chronic eye pain.
Other musculoskeletal issues can occur in Rhodesians. Hip and elbow dysplasia is a common condition in large-breed dogs. Obesity can also worsen these conditions.
Health care
If you are interested in owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback, it is important that you are familiar with the common health problems that these dogs may face. The good news is that most of these can be avoided or cured.
These dogs may also develop allergies. These can be caused by dust or mold. Dogs with allergies can experience sneezing, itchiness, or a rash.
Eye disease is also a problem. Some of these eye conditions can be painful and lead to blindness if left untreated.
In addition to these, there are several musculoskeletal problems that may affect your Rhodesian Ridgeback. While it is impossible to prevent these health issues from occurring, you can avoid them by providing your dog with a healthy diet. Also, you can treat the condition with drugs and glucosamine supplements.
Another health condition that you should be aware of is autoimmune thyroiditis. This condition is commonly found in Rhodesians, as the body cannot make enough thyroid hormone. It is a serious condition that can cause heart failure.
The good news is that autoimmune thyroiditis is usually treated with alternative therapies. One of the treatments is to replace the thyroid hormone with pills.
Glucosamine supplements can also help keep your large breed’s joints in good shape. But before starting any treatment, it is always advisable to consult a veterinarian.
Obesity is another potential health problem for your Rhodesian Ridgeback. Being obese can increase your dog’s chances of developing a number of musculoskeletal and metabolic disorders.
