Ridgeback (-ology)

Highly intelligent, happy and friendly dogs.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has won many admirers, and this breed possesses many of the characteristics generally associated with Hounds but is somewhat tougher than the typical Hound breed. The Ridgeback has a quiet, gentle temperament and rarely barks. The hallmark of the Ridgeback is the ridge on the back, and this is formed by the hair growing in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. It starts just behind the shoulders and continues down to just before the hips.

THE RIDGEBACK AT HOME

This handsome dog breed is extremely smart but sometimes a bit stubborn, with a high energy level and an easy-care coat. These days, the Ridgeback is more likely to hunt a soft spot on the sofa after going jogging with you.

Although the Ridgeback comes from a hunting breed, it’s quite a mild-mannered and gentle dog that can be very obedient if well trained. They are somewhat aloof with strangers but will be more inclined to ignore them rather than engage with them – but this can be corrected if they are socialised well.

Ridgebacks are fairly energetic, which can lead to them being a little destructive if they’re not stimulated and don’t get enough exercise. For this reason, they are best suited to living in a home with a large yard for them to play in. because they’re relatively inactive when indoors, they’re suitable for townhouse or cluster home living as long as they’re exercised very regularly. With their endless amount of energy, they need to go on a very long walk/jog daily.

HEALTH

Ridgebacks are quite hardy dogs and don’t have too many health problems. because of their size they might suffer from hip dysplasia later in life and can also develop dermoid sinus, a skin anomaly. In terms of life expectancy, the average Ridgeback’s lifespan is 10 to 12 years.