I would love to get a rhodesian ridgeback Answers at Dogster Answers.

Tue, Apr 27th 2010, 11:38 GMT

These are absolutely amazing looking dogs. I personally think they are among the most beautiful of the purebreeds. But, as Harvey pointed out, they can be extremely aloof and they aren't typical of the happy go lucky type of dog. They can be serious and very intelligent and have special training needs. They also have a genetic condition which can be present at birth but not discovered until adulthood if the breeder is disreputable. It involves the actual ridge. It can have a hole in it that actually leads directly into the body causing constant and potentially life threatening infections. It is usually easily identified by a vet, but often goes unnoticed by owners since it's not something backyard or dishonest breeders like to talk about. Definitely something to be aware of!

ANSWERED BY

Jack

Tue, Apr 27th 2010, 09:47 GMT

Like most other sight hounds, they are not good with cats or other small animals that run. They are seen as prey and if not trained well , will chase them. It is good that you have some place for them to run because they need alot of exercise. They are like others said good family dogs, just make sure they understand, smaller animals are not prey.

ANSWERED BY

Ikan

Mon, Apr 26th 2010, 10:02 GMT

Howard, you need to start listing your sources when you directly quote like that!!! Does the word "plagiarism" sound familiar? The Ridgeback is a scent hound, and, as such, it does require lots of attention and good fences to keep them confined. They are also excellent guard dogs and need to be well socialized and trained from puppyhood on and continuing as adults to make sure they are accepting of visitors and other animals. As a hound, they are quite aloof, which many interpet as stubborn, this does make this a breed that is not for everyone. If you want a dog that "needs" you and responds instantly to your every wish without question, this is not the breed for you.

ANSWERED BY

Harvey
1 dog found this answer to be helpful.

Mon, Apr 26th 2010, 06:48 GMT

Descended from dogs kept by the Honttentots since the fifteenth century at least, big game hunters used to call the Rhodesian Ridgeback the 'lion dog' because in Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) this breed helped in the pursuit of quarry, often lions. The dog did not actually attack the lion but worried it until the hunter arrived. Now in Africa the Ridegback is used as a guard and is regarded as South Africa's native dog. Standing 24-27 inches (61-67 cm) in height and weighing up to around 85 lb (39 kg), this is a handsome, strong, muscular and active dog, capable of great endurance with fair speed. An important distinguishing feature is a ridge of hair along the back, formed by hair growing in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a good family dog. It is very loyal but tolerates no threats around strangers. This breed is active, needs to be taken on a daily long walk and jog. They will become destructive if not exercised enough.

ANSWERED BY

Howard

Mon, Apr 26th 2010, 05:19 GMT

My Ridge/mix is a wonderful dog. He is protective, but not aggressive. He will bite if provoked, but doesn't look for reasons to attack. You will feel safe with him, but you won't fear for others around him if they respect him and give him the opportunity to get to know them. He simply loves cats. He is enamoured with them. He loves to chase things, but it is always in a playful manner. Never meaning to hurt, but because of his 120+lb frame he doesn't realize he can hurt a small animal by stepping on them with his clumsy paws. He is obessessed with me. Never had a more loyal dog, EVER!!! He is now 9, quite healthy, and still active. His size will be a problem when he gets older with joint issues, but I have kept it at bay with good lean meat and glucosamine. He loves to travel, he loves walks and now that he is older, he doesn't require rigorous exercise. He is a trouble free dog, and I would highly recommend this breed to a loving home. I could go on, but not room.

ANSWERED BY

Hector
2 dog found this answer to be helpful.

Mon, Apr 26th 2010, 04:07 GMT

research them they are not for everyone. They are sight hounds and need training.

ANSWERED BY

Dieta

Mon, Apr 26th 2010, 02:00 GMT

Here is some Dogster info on the breed. http://www.dogster.com/breeds/Rhodesian_Ridgeback

ANSWERED BY

Cindy (RIP)
1 dog found this answer to be helpful.