Height<\/strong><\/td>

Male: 25 to 27 inches
Female: 24 to 26 inches<\/td><\/tr>

Weight<\/strong><\/td>

Male: 85 pounds
Female: 70 pounds<\/td><\/tr>

Life Expectancy<\/strong><\/td>

10 to 12 years<\/td><\/tr>

Coat<\/strong><\/td>

Short, Shiny, Clean<\/td><\/tr>

Colors<\/strong><\/td>

Light Wheaten, Red Wheaten<\/td><\/tr>

Temperament<\/strong><\/td>

Independent, Intelligent, Aloof, Even-Tempered, Dignified<\/td><\/tr>

Ideal For<\/strong><\/td>

Experienced Owners, Active Owners<\/td><\/tr>

Hypoallergenic<\/strong><\/td>

No<\/td><\/tr>

AKC Group<\/strong><\/td>

Hound<\/td><\/tr>

Puppy Price<\/strong><\/td>

$1,700 \u2013 $2,500<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Rhodesian Ridgebacks Characteristics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Health<\/strong><\/td> High<\/td><\/tr>
Grooming<\/strong><\/td> Low<\/td><\/tr>
Friendliness<\/strong><\/td> Medium<\/td><\/tr>
Energy<\/strong><\/td> High<\/td><\/tr>
Trainability<\/strong><\/td> Medium <\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
A Typical Rhodesian Ridgeback Temperament<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is an excitable and active breed. When it becomes an adult, it mellows down to a self-assured guardian.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good choice for a balanced and quiet guard dog.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It remains loyal, brave, and ready to defend those it loves.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This isn’t an extroverted pooch though. While the Ridgeback loves its family and is calmly affectionate towards family members, it tends to be aloof at strangers.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
This has security advantages but can turn into aggression if your Rhodesian Ridgeback pooch isn’t well trained.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Socialize it to curb the level of wariness it has.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Furthermore, this breed isn’t the best fit for first-time dog owners as its independent spirit and stubbornness can become infuriating to the inexperienced. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even its intelligence may turn into a problem as it would need a lot of mental stimulation<\/a> to prevent it from getting bored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Its physical exercise needs can be managed, however, as it is moderate.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This doesn’t mean it is a lazy dog. The Rhodesian Ridgeback may seem laid-back, but it is a force to be reckoned with.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Underestimate it at your peril.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Recommended:<\/strong>
20 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds You Mustn\u2019t Mess With<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Family Dogs?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
$\"Rhodesian$
Photo by olgagorovenko \/ Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
In a nutshell, yes, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good family dog. It is loving and loyal towards its family members and can even tolerate the excesses of kids.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is ready to defend its family with all it has.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Brave, confident, and calm, this lion hunter is a natural protector and watchdog.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Nevertheless, the Ridgeback isn’t a breed fit for everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While it does play the role of a companion now, it can’t be suitable for every family like natural companions will.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
First-timers, laid-back owners, and people who want a friendly pooch would fare better with a different breed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It will only be a good family dog to those that can handle it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Majorly, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is advisable for people who want guard dogs, watchdogs, and perhaps a hunting companion.\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good with Other Dogs, Cats, and Pets?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Rhodesian Ridgeback must be exposed early to other dogs if you wish to keep it in a home with multiple pets within.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
While the Ridgeback can get along with other dogs, same-sex aggression can occur amongst male dogs, especially unneutered ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You must neuter a male Ridgeback to reduce this tendency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Socialization notwithstanding, we can’t promise that this breed would be friendly with outside dogs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Its high prey drive<\/a> may put smaller pets like cats and rodents at risk. Even with good training, you never know when instincts can take over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you want other pets alongside a Ridgeback, keep them at a reasonable distance.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Friendly?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
$\"Close$
Daniel_Malinowski \/ Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
The Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is very friendly and gets easily happy. However, the grown-up dog isn’t friendly to everyone.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It reserves its friendliness for only family members and would not be keen on greeting visitors or playing with a stranger at a park.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
Even with family, don’t expect this breed to show a high degree of enthusiasm.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Like we mentioned above, its wariness has some perks.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You wouldn’t want a guard dog who’d want to befriend an intruder. The wariness also keeps it alert, making it a good watchdog as well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Good training will prevent the aloofness to develop into aggression, which happens only if this breed isn’t trained enough.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks\u00a0Easy to Train?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is trainable, but do not expect it to be easy.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The stubbornness, independent spirit, and intelligence of the Ridgeback make training a challenge.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n
The owner must know how to be firm without being harsh, patient, and calm, with a high level of confidence to match that of the Ridgeback.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Without this, training for this dog breed is doomed before it even begins.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
To curb the stubbornness and make it obey you, you need to start early.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Stubborn dogs are easier to handle as puppies, although you would have to learn how to keep them focused despite the restlessness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Not training your puppy<\/a> early can have big consequences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It may get to a moment when stubbornness sets in, leading to undesirable traits like chewing everything in sight, excessive digging and barking<\/a>, urinating where it shouldn’t, and even running off when unleashed.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
As with other stubborn breeds, training must begin with the puppy acknowledging that you’re the leader.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Furthermore, the Rhodesian puppy needs basic obedience training.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Its intelligence will come to good use here as it won’t take time to learn simple commands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Teach it how to Stop<\/em>, Sit<\/em>, Drop<\/em> an object from its mouth, and even stop attacking someone on command.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This is what would make it a dignified guardian, not an aggressive terror.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Socialization should also start when the Rhodesian is a puppy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This involves taking it to new places, introducing it to people and also animals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can opt for a puppy class where your pooch would learn with some other puppies.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Similar to other dogs, positive reinforcements work better than punitive methods. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Using treats can motivate an otherwise uncooperative pooch, but you should not overdo it. Too many treats can make your dog gain weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Rhodesian Ridgeback Grooming Needs & Care<\/h2>\n\n\n\n $\"Rhodesian$
Photo by JodaFoto \/ Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n
The favorite part of owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback is that it has low grooming needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Its short coat doesn’t need much effort to keep clean, and it hardly emits any odor. The Rhodesian Ridgeback sheds a little, which makes it not hypoallergenic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Regular brushing can help remove the dead hair on its skin.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Because it is odorless and doesn’t get dirty with ease, the Ridgeback doesn’t need too much bathing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It should get a bath only when it gets stained outside. Wash it with a good shampoo.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Also, you need to clean its ears. The Ridgeback has droopy ears which are prone to infection, so it needs to be wiped regularly.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ear cleaning also reduces the amount of wax in the ears.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Do not ignore any abnormal signs like smelly ears<\/a> or redness. When you notice this, get your dog treated.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Another part that needs care is the nails. Long nails make it uncomfortable for the dog to move around, and may lead to a tear in your carpet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This activity must be done with care as no dog would appreciate getting injured on the paws.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Check out this guide on how to cut an uncooperative dog’s <\/a>nails if your Ridgeback is not cooperating.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You can also hire a professional groomer if you’re not keen on doing it yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Finally, give it good dental care to prevent tooth problems and an excess of tartar. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This should be done with a good toothbrush and vet-approved toothpaste.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Common Health Problems<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Compared to other Hounds and some dogs, the Rhodesian Ridgeback’s lifespan isn’t too long.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The average life span of dogs falls between 10 and 13 years.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Meanwhile, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is known to live up to 12 years, which just falls within the average.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It isn’t all bad news though. The Ridgeback can live a healthy life with little vet visits when well-bred and taken care of.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You must be conscious of the diseases this breed can get even before shopping or adopting one.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Some of the common conditions include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hip and Elbow Dysplasia<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The hip and elbow dysplasia are both joint issues, but they manifest in slightly different ways. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hip dysplasia occurs when the hip joint is loosely fitted while elbow dysplasia happens when the elbow isn’t well-formed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both have similar symptoms, however, in that they affect a dog’s movement, can cause pain and may make the dog unwilling to move.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When untreated, both illnesses can render a dog lame.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Dermoid Sinus<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Dermoid Sinus is a skin condition that Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It occurs when the skin and the nervous system don’t separate well when the embryo is developing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It isn’t often present at birth but may not be apparent till the dog grows.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Symptoms include an opening on the skin that is vulnerable to infection.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deafness<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It hardly shows during the puppy stage but may become apparent during adulthood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Deafness has no particular cure but the affected dog can be taught to live a normal life.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Hypothyroidism<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Hypothyroidism occurs when the dog’s thyroid gland malfunctions by not producing enough thyroid hormone that the dog’s body needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ridgebacks are very prone to this illness. Symptoms include dry skin, hair loss, unexpected weight gain, and even some undesirable behaviors.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Cancer<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
The Ridgeback can develop some dangerous tumors, much like humans do.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It can be fatal if left untreated and should be treated as an emergency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Symptoms of cancer in the Rhodesian Ridgeback include swelling, injuries that don’t heal, and some unexplained bumps.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Heart issues<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Different factors can cause heart complications in dogs, but the result is the same. The heart gets weakened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Symptoms of heart complications in dogs include breathing difficulties, coughing, general weakness especially after exercising, and paralysis in worst cases.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bloat<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Bloating is a fatal illness that usually affects dogs of bigger sizes. It seems like a minor disease but is a fast killer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Bloating occurs when the dog’s stomach swells up as a result of food and other fluids that fill it.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
If you notice your dog’s stomach swelling, rush it to the vet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Diet & Excercise Needs<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
$\"Rhodesian$
Photo by olgagorovenko \/ Getty Images<\/figcaption><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\n\n
Feeding and exercise are two other doggy needs that must not be overlooked as they contribute to the dog’s wellness. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Feeding the Rhodesian Ridgeback involves picking up the right products for its diet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It must be high-quality dry dog food with all the right nutrients in place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Protein is the most needed nutrient, as well as minerals, vitamins, and a few others. Keep your pooch hydrated too.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Obesity is an issue with the Ridgeback, especially as it often has a huge appetite. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Ensure that you measure its meal accordingly and keep treats at a minimum.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Exercise also helps maintain the weight level, as well as keeping it going.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Ridgeback that works or spends its time outdoors more would need lesser exercise than its apartment counterpart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Either way, at least 40 minutes of exercise should be enough. Supplement physical activities with a good dose of mental ones.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback Right For You?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
With all we now know about the Ridgeback, do you think it is right for you?<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You alone hold the answer to this question, but a brief recap of the Rhodesian Ridgeback’s pros and cons can help.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\n
\n
Pros<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Good watchdog and guard dog.<\/li>
\u00a0Highly energetic and can adapt to indoor living.<\/li>
Grooming the coat is easy.<\/li>
Moderate exercise level.<\/li>
Loyal and protective.<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n
Cons<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Not suitable for first-time owners.<\/li>
Not hypoallergenic.<\/li>
Can be stubborn and loves being independent.<\/li>
Can be overwhelming for toddlers.<\/li><\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n
\n<\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"related-questions\">Related Questions<\/h2>\n\n\n<div id=\"rank-math-faq\" class=\"rank-math-block\">\n<div class=\"rank-math-list \">\n<div id=\"faq-question-1645126344721\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">How much is a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The Ridgeback is an expensive dog breed when you want to shop for one.<\/p>\n<p>The average price range of a Rhodesian Ridgeback pup falls between $1,700 to $2,500 but may vary depending on many factors.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1645126395921\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">What is the Rhodesian Ridgeback known for?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an African lion hunting dog that’s recognized by the ridge that runs down its back, a physical trait it got from its African parents.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1645126448999\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks aggressive?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Without proper socialization, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can become aggressive towards strangers.<\/p>\n<p>The unneutered male Ridgeback might also get aggressive towards other male dogs.<\/p>\n<p>Unless you need your pooch to breed, ensure you neuter\/spay it and give it enough socialization.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1645126493646\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback good for first-time owners?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>The Rhodesian Ridgeback is not recommended for <a href=\"https:\/\/puplore.com\/low-maintenance-dogs\/\" data-type=\"post\" data-id=\"6625\">first-time owners<\/a> because of its size and its stubbornness.<\/p>\n<p>In the hands of an inexperienced owner, it may get out of control with bad behaviors, including aggression.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1645126731562\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Do Ridgebacks like to cuddle?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be good apartment dogs and are known to be affectionate with family members, but they are not good cuddle buddies.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"faq-question-1645126797234\" class=\"rank-math-list-item\">\n<h3 class=\"rank-math-question \">Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks smelly dogs?<\/h3>\n<div class=\"rank-math-answer \">\n\n<p>Rhodesian Ridgebacks have odorless coats that do not require regular bathing but can get dirty and smelly if they get into the mud. However, that isn’t a usual occurrence.<\/p>\n\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"final-thoughts\">Final Thoughts<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good hunter and guardian but has some limitations in the role of a companion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Not the family dog for everyone, the Rhodesian Ridgeback needs firm training from a confident and experienced owner.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In good hands, this breed becomes a calm, devoted, and loving household pet.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\"><p><strong>You May Also Like:<\/strong><br><a href=\"https:\/\/puplore.com\/rhodesian-ridgeback-mix\/\">10 Popular Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes (with Pictures)<\/a><\/p><\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"reference wp-block-heading\" id=\"references-notes\"><strong>References & Notes<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"reference wp-block-list\"><li><em><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rhodesian_Ridgeback\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Wikipedia<\/a>: “Rhodesian Ridgeback”<\/em><\/li><li><em><a href=\"https:\/\/www.akc.org\/expert-advice\/health\/how-long-do-dogs-live\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">American Kennel Club<\/a>: “How Long Do Dogs Live?”<\/em><\/li><\/ul>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an African breed that’s well known for the ridge running down its spine. First developed as a lion hunter, this reputation earned it the name ‘African … <a title=\"Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Family Dogs?\" class=\"read-more\" href=\"https:\/\/puplore.com\/are-rhodesian-ridgebacks-good-family-dogs\/\" aria-label=\"More on Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Family Dogs?\">Continue Reading<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":3,"featured_media":6789,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[5],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-6785","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-dog-breed-info"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6785","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/3"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=6785"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6785\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":6796,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/6785\/revisions\/6796"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/6789"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=6785"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=6785"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/puplore.com\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=6785"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}