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. Couple this kind of size with its capacity for wonder and wander, and you have a dog thats not going to stay put in a small area. I am currently the trainer/behavior consultant for DoggoMag LLC for the past two years. A few rare health conditions found in Rhodesian Ridgebacks include deafness, eye and skin problems, and hypothyroidism. They also get along well with children if raised properly. If you are considering a Rhodesian Ridgeback for your family, you are no doubt wondering whether they will be a good house dog or not. Females stand 24 to 26 inches tall and weigh around 70 pounds. It reserves its friendliness for only family members and would not be keen on greeting visitors or playing with a stranger at a park. Dominant dogs will test their master's leadership and try to take on the role of pack leader. Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are good guard dogs because of their high prey drive, mouthiness, outdoorsy nature, high energy levels, and protective instincts. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not known for being exceptionally difficult to house train, but they are also not one of the breeds who takes to house training naturally. The Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed to hunt lions, but it also makes an excellent watchdog and guard dog. Ridgebacks do not require much grooming, but brushing weekly or daily will help to reduce shedding in the house. Food guarding is a common problem amongst most hound breeds and starts from an early age. That said, if you have an active and outdoorsy family, your Ridgeback may be able to spend a fair amount of time outside. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is generally easy to care for. Hi, my name is Scott. Find Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies for sale Near Denver, CO The Rhodesian Ridgeback is about as cool as it gets. 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. It occurs when the skin and the nervous system dont separate well when the embryo is developing. Usually, cuddling is more likely in dogs that have had more exercise and are tired. Ridgebacks have a muscular and athletic body, built for endurance. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has many wonderful and individual traits. Depending on your childrens size, you may also want to warn them about the potential of being knocked down by the dog, even though the dog is not trying to hurt them. You will fail at this. The Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is an excitable and active breed. The coat of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is short and flat, the only color they . They are intelligent, stubborn, loyal, affectionate, fiercely independent, and fantastic with children making them a great family dog that is fun to have around. What breed of dog hunts lions? The Rhodesian Ridgeback can also be found competing in various dog sports, including agility, lure coursing, obedience, and tracking, and he's a good hiking or jogging companion. Like we mentioned above, its wariness has some perks. 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. Meet Bouncer, a Rhodesian Ridgeback & Labrador Retriever Mix Dog for adoption, at Trampled Rose Rescue & Rehab in New Orleans, LA on Petfinder. These powerful hunting dogs tend to be independent, like to make up their own minds about situations, and can even be stubborn and domineering. If you are looking for a guard dog to keep in your backyard, the Ridgeback is not a good choice. The dog should be taught basic obedience behaviors, as well as to stay out of peoples space when asked. The breed is the result of crosses among the native ridged Khoikhoi dog and dogs brought to Africa by. Each breed has its own strengths and weaknesses, on the basis of which each owner selects the ideal pet for himself. 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. 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 known to be loyal and intelligent. Nevertheless, the Ridgeback isnt a breed fit for everyone. Here are some things that every Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should know before choosing to adopt. It wasnt until 1922, however, that the Rhodesian Ridgeback became a recognized dog breed from a stock of tribal dogs that had been crossbred with a European breed known for its hunting abilities. Need some more information on correct socialization techniques? This is what would make it a dignified guardian, not an aggressive terror. However, that isnt a usual occurrence. Your responsibility is to socialize your pup extensively so they learn how to modulate their behavior around other dogs. Rhodesian ridgebacks may well be born with their ridge, but they're certainly not born with a name, so let's get stuck into our lists of the most popular Rhodesian ridgeback names. When untreated, both illnesses can render a dog lame. Any dog with the temperament and size to back it up has the potential to be a good guard dog. These dogs were bred to confront and bay at lions until the hunter could dispatch the big cat. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have short, glossy coats. According to the writers and breeders at Ridge Back Puppies and Koda Rhodesian Ridgebacks, male pups tend to be more relaxed and "aloof", while the fairer sex is more outgoing and headstrong. 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. Ridgebacks were bred for endurance - therefore they will need a consistent, ongoing program of exercise. During the 17th century, the Khoikhoi tribe of Southern Africa developed a dog breed that could protect them from the dangers they faced every day. Rescue Dogs. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are highly devoted to their family and cannot be expected to do well if left alone in a yard or kennel for long periods of time. Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally make great family dogs, as they are tolerant and even-tempered. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an African breed thats well known for the ridge running down its spine. However, it is important that they are raised appropriately, disciplined appropriately and boundaries are set for both dog and family alike. And is also very affectionate and friendly to almost anyone it meets. : North Carolina State University But what if you're looking for a little bit more from your family pet? The strong temperament. Characteristics like independence, high prey drive, and reservation with new people are unlikely to be altered even with extensive training and socialization. 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are one of the best guard dogs that are present today. Having a dog that is accustomed to these things ensures they will not run away when faced with danger. They are certainly not for novice owners to tackle because of their high physical stimulation needs. Would make a very good guard dog for the right owner. You as the owner must be responsible for your dogs's actions. It remains loyal, brave, and ready to defend those it loves. These dogs are fearless and utterly devoted to protecting their families. In the hands of an inexperienced owner, it may get out of control with bad behaviors, including aggression. For a guard dog to give everything to protecting something or someone, attachment is a must. Overall, there are plenty of reasons why Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dogs. Dogs made for specific jobs are also quite sensitive that Ive generally observed. This dog is not recommended to be a watchdog. 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. Size. High physical stimulation is a part of their daily lives. Answer (1 of 3): Rhodesian ridgebacks are extremely tolerant dogs and excellent companions. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good house dogs? 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. How to Prevent Aggression in Rhodesian Ridgebacks. There are not a lot of grooming requirements with Rhodesian Ridgebacks as they are naturally very clean dogs. Treats also help with getting them to become less guarded over their food. The whip-like tail can be especially difficult to control around children since it tends to be just the right height to hit kids in the face. 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. Their hound genes kick in when theres a threat to their owners. 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. 14 Reasons Doberman Pinscher Are Not The Friendly Dogs Everyone Says They Are, 14+ Informative and Interesting Facts About Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Unfortunately, these independently minded dogs have a tendency to make up their own mind about what constitutes a threat. They are also an excellent family pet and are very loyal and affectionate. According to professional dog trainers, Rhodesian Ridgebacks score out of 5 in terms of their guard dog ability. Source #4 You have no chance to say "NO!" to the food begging. 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. This is true across all breeds. 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