Good With Small Kids?. 5 Facts To Consider About The Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog 1. These dogs are fearless and utterly devoted to protecting their families. Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be great house dogs, provided that they have a family who makes the appropriate accommodations for them. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Guard Dog Any dog that will face off with a lion is surely not one to mess with. As the dog owner, you should become the pack leader, but problems can arise with multiple male dogs fighting for that position. 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. Perhaps lesser known about them is that they originated in Africa to be hunting dogs used for hunting lions and other large prey. Long nails make it uncomfortable for the dog to move around, and may lead to a tear in your carpet. There are many ways you can help your Rhodesian Ridgeback from becoming dangerous or having aggression issues. I recommend desexing & training him if he's going to be around other dogs and/or kids. by Bloating occurs when the dogs stomach swells up as a result of food and other fluids that fill it. As with any dog breed, socialization is the key to having a well-balanced dog. 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. Make sure that your yard is extremely secure and resistant to your dog digging under the fence or climbing over it. 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. The Ridgeback has droopy ears which are prone to infection, so it needs to be wiped regularly. C/O Pet Educate4736 Royal Ave PMB 109160Eugene, OR 97402United States. 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. Source Page 1 of 4 As a larger dog breed, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is able to sprint and maintain speeds of up to 30 miles per hour. 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. From their earliest days, this breed served double duty as a fierce hunting dog and family protector. He is capable of great endurance with a fair amount of speed. Compared to other Hounds and some dogs, the Rhodesian Ridgebacks lifespan isnt too long. Rhodesian Ridgebacksare generally affectionate dogs and like to cuddle up to their owners when relaxed. 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. Therefore, if you are considering a Rhodesian Ridgeback, you better make space on your couch. Someone Who Values a Guard Dog Later on, the tribal dog became admired by settlers and tribes across Africa. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Guard Dogs? As an Amazon Associate, TrendingBreeds.com earns from qualifying purchases. All of these attributes make the Rhodesian Ridgeback good guard dogs. When they are eating out of their bowl, still while they are young, move in and pop a few treats in their bowl. A few rare health conditions found in Rhodesian Ridgebacks include deafness, eye and skin problems, and hypothyroidism. Mary Allen While it does play the role of a companion now, it cant be suitable for every family like natural companions will. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally easy to care for. Rescue Dogs. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are well known for being excellent family dogs. Not training your puppy early can have big consequences. Rhodesian Ridgebacks, especially ones intended to be used as guard dogs, can benefit greatly from socialization. . Rhodesian Ridgebacks Dog Breed Information, A Typical Rhodesian Ridgeback Temperament. These are dogs who need to be with their families. All Rights Reserved. However, before owning them, know that they require a lot of exercise. Cookie is the most popular name, having received more likes than any other in this list of Rhodesian Ridgeback Names for girl dogs. There are not a lot of grooming requirements with Rhodesian Ridgebacks as they are naturally very clean dogs. This is because it could result in issues with leadership and territory. Consequently, they love chasing games and show impressive speeds and agility. However, that isnt a usual occurrence. Like we mentioned above, its wariness has some perks. A former military working dog handler, Ben founded Puplore to provide owners with breed-specific information and to act as a go-to guide to health, nutrition, care, and to help them find the confidence they need to step up to the plate and become the best pup parents they can possibly be. Appearance 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. We also participate in other affiliate programs and are compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies (at no cost to you). 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. Puppies . See more. Ultimately, a properly trained dog, no matter their breed, makes for a happier dog and a more satisfied owner. 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. They have a muscular build with a deep chest, long neck, and a lengthy tail. But, are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good family dogs? These dogs can never be trusted off-leash and they need strong fences to contain them. You don't want a poorly socialized, untrained 95 pound muscular dog. Rhodesian Ridgebacks make excellent family pets, but there are some considerations when choosing one for a house dog. Your responsibility is to socialize your pup extensively so they learn how to modulate their behavior around other dogs. You alone hold the answer to this question, but a brief recap of the Rhodesian Ridgebacks pros and cons can help. Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dogs? Like all animals, you can expect some health issues. Amazon, the Amazon logo, AmazonSupply, and the AmazonSupply logo are trademarks of Amazon.com, Inc. or its affiliates. Other dogs, cats, children. Males range in height from 25 to 27" (85 pounds, 38 kilograms) and females from 24 to 26 inches (70 pounds, 32 kilograms). 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. Therefore, a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should be strong enough to control these dogs on leash. The Rhodesian Ridgeback must be exposed early to other dogs if you wish to keep it in a home with multiple pets within. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good house dogs? 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 . First-timers, laid-back owners, and people who want a friendly pooch would fare better with a different breed. Females stand 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh around 70 pounds. Powerful and strong-willed Rhodesian Ridgeback is a fast dog, and that is why it makes a good athlete. Socialize it to curb the level of wariness it has. And when they were bred to do that, what on Earth will make anyone think that they wouldnt make the perfect guard dogs? Although Rhodesian Ridgeback - German Shepherd mixes are generally good dogs with a consistent temperament and good health, locating one will be difficult. List Of 11 Dog Commands And Hand Signals [Latest 2023]. : North Carolina State University 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. However, due to the small size of some kids, and the larger size of the adult Rhodesian Ridgeback, it is possible that children can inadvertently get hurt if there is no supervision. . Their short-haired coat needs minimal grooming and they do not shed much. 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. Originally bred as an all-purpose working dog, the Golden Retriever Rhodesian Ridgeback Mix is known for its intelligence and loyalty, making it the perfect companion dog. This video will help you decide if you're ready for the challenge!F. It isnt often present at birth but may not be apparent till the dog grows. The adorable Rhodesian Ridgeback features a high prey drive, and the breed is quite independent. Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good family companion, courageous hunter, and Friend. Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks protect their owners? Still, do not stay aloof to their needs even when outside guarding your property. Thai Ridgebacks make good companions for older children, as they may be too rambunctious for a toddler or baby. 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are one of the best guard dogs that are present today. It may get to a moment when stubbornness sets in, leading to undesirable traits like chewing everything in sight, excessive digging and barking, urinating where it shouldnt, and even running off when unleashed. Stubborn dogs are easier to handle as puppies, although you would have to learn how to keep them focused despite the restlessness. We are seasoned pet owners and enthusiasts who love to share everything that we learn about them! That said, if you would rather your dog spend his time outdoors instead of in the house while you are away from home, it is possible for your dog to enjoy outside time and act as an excellent watchdog until you return. 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. In addition, Ridgebacks can be dominant or aggressive toward other dogs of the same sex. If you have never had a hunting breed before, it is probably best that the Rhodesian Ridgeback not be your first dog. You simply cannot strip them of that. In doing so, the dog will become destructive. Having lived on the territory of the southern continent for more than one century, she perfectly took root in many European countries. Ridgebacks do not require much grooming, but brushing weekly or daily will help to reduce shedding in the house. Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have ridges . A Rhodesian Ridgeback wont think twice about putting themselves in danger in order to take on a prey animal. Symptoms of cancer in the Rhodesian Ridgeback include swelling, injuries that dont heal, and some unexplained bumps. Without proper direction and training throughout life, they can be domineering and very stubborn. It may be best to keep Rhodesian Ridgebacks only with other large breed dogs. 20 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds You Mustnt Mess With, 10 Popular Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes (with Pictures), Why Do Dogs Bark In Their Sleep? Your furniture and other pets may have to bear the brunt. For some people, additional training is necessary depending on the owners lifestyle and activities. If you want other pets alongside a Ridgeback, keep them at a reasonable distance. I mean that should be the end of it. You wouldnt want a guard dog whod want to befriend an intruder. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has great traits like loyalty, bravery, and an even temper. Make sure to have everything in order and ready for the new arrival to make the transition into a new environment as stress-free as possible. (2023), Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Dangerous? (2023), Are Bernedoodles Good Family Dogs? The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an incredible history of protecting humans and hunting lions in Africa. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are utterly devoted to their people, so they do not do well when kept separate from the family. Anything that threatens them is a vicious enemy and the dog fights it with all its might. These dogs need to be with their family and will pine for them if kept alone. Protein is the most needed nutrient, as well as minerals, vitamins, and a few others. Children love to play with dogs, and this breed loves to play right back with the children. $500.00. not fully trained yet either. With the characteristic ridge along their back and stunning red coat, Rhodesian ridgebacks are a stand out in the hound group.. Rhodesian ridgebacks were hunters developed in Africa to corner and hold big game prey, such as lions, bears, and boar.. Exercise also helps maintain the weight level, as well as keeping it going. Here's what you need to think about before adopting a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Do not ignore any abnormal signs like smelly ears or redness. The Rhodesian Ridgeback sheds a little, which makes it not hypoallergenic. If you are looking for a guard dog that you can leave out in the yard, look elsewhere. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are built for warm temperatures and hot climates and will not tolerate the cold. One recommendation is not to have too many male dogs in one household. Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good guard dogs because of their high prey drive, mouthiness, outdoorsy nature, high energy levels, and protective instincts. First developed as a lion hunter, this reputation earned it the name African Lion Hound. It's important to start weekly grooming practices at a young age, which will help your dog become comfortable when handled. The Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is very friendly and gets easily happy. They are known to be very loyal and protective of their families. They may also cuddle to keep warm or to get closer to their owner if they perceive there to be a threat. Medium. The ridge consists of a line of hair running on their backs in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat. Therefore, if you have a family with lots of visitors or if your kids often have friends over, a Rhodesian Ridgeback may not be the best choice for your family. Either way, at least 40 minutes of exercise should be enough. 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are independent dogs who are more likely to make up their own mind than look to you for direction. The dog should be taught basic obedience behaviors, as well as to stay out of peoples space when asked. Whats good and bad about the Rhodesian Ridgeback? Rhod. Finally, give it good dental care to prevent tooth problems and an excess of tartar. 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. If you are looking for a dog who can range freely with your livestock, this breed is probably not the best choice. The Khoikhoi (also known as Africanis) is a dog breed native to Africa that has a characteristic ridge of hair on its back. Peteducate.com uses affiliate links; where we may earn from qualifying purchases (at no additional cost to you). Your email address will not be published. Hound dog breeds are often born and raised in packs, having to fend for themselves, so it becomes instinctive to want to protect what is theirs and not lose it to another pack member. Just a few times training puts them in the expert categories for guarding jobs. 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. The unneutered male Ridgeback might also get aggressive towards other male dogs. Older and very active dogs have developed problems with their hip and elbow joints. Compare Flatte and African Lion Hound and Alsatian wolf dog. Reasons & What To Do, Why Was The Dog Whisperer Cancelled? They are quiet and gentlein temperamentand not known to bark. With all we now know about the Ridgeback, do you think it is right for you? 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have been bred to be guard dogs instinctively, as many of their ancestors were, and can be very territorial. Rhodesian ridgebacks can be a good family dog as long as they are well socialized with children. 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. In fact, ridges are this breed's most known feature. A hound dog is naturally inclined to have a higher prey drive than working-class dogs. 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. Therefore, if you are considering a Rhodesian Ridgeback, you better make space on your couch. It is best to get a Rhodesian Ridgeback when it is around 9 weeks old, usually from a reputable and well sought out breeder. Their nails tend to grow quite fast; however, so they will need to be clipped regularly to prevent splitting and other issues. Reputation earned it the name African lion Hound and Alsatian wolf dog about. 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