do rhodesian ridgebacks make good service dogs

Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be great house dogs, provided that they have a family who makes the appropriate accommodations for them. However, they can be aggressive with other dogs that they come across and who are unfamiliar to them. It remains loyal, brave, and ready to defend those it loves. How Often Should You Clean And Replace Your Dogs Toys, Guidelines for Keeping Guinea Pigs as Pets, Body Language: This is What Your Budgie Wants to Tell You, Shiny, Beautiful Horse Hair: Look After the Mane and Tail. Its intelligence will come to good use here as it wont take time to learn simple commands. Do not expect your Rhodesian Ridgeback to show self-control when on leash if they see something they want to chase. Their short-haired coat needs minimal grooming and they do not shed much. All rights reserved. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a well-mannered dog that is loyal and loveable. In addition, instilling confidence, and the ability to discern friend from foe is of the utmost importance. All Rights Reserved. The ridge consists of a line of hair running on their backs in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat. Dermoid Sinus is a skin condition that Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for. This breed does not do well in apartment living or being kept alone all day and will act out in different ways, none of which are useful if held in these confined ways. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Family Dogs? They are overwhelmingly driven to chase and kill any kind of prey animal of any size. You can opt for a puppy class where your pooch would learn with some other puppies. Ridgebacks are generally good with all animals they are raised with. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are one of the best guard dogs that are present today. Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a lovey-dovey personality only towards their parents and family. It is best that your dog not be able to see through the fence since any sighting of a prey item will drive your dog to try to escape. Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks Good Guard Dogs? Usually, cuddling is more likely in dogs that have had more exercise and are tired. In doing so, the dog will become destructive. These dogs need to be with their family and will pine for them if kept alone. However, it is important that they are raised appropriately, disciplined appropriately and boundaries are set for both dog and family alike. They may also cuddle to keep warm or to get closer to their owner if they perceive there to be a threat. What does a guard dog have to do with affection towards its family? With all we now know about the Ridgeback, do you think it is right for you? 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. However, they should always be supervised around young children. Bloating occurs when the dogs stomach swells up as a result of food and other fluids that fill it. These dogs can be good with cats if brought up with them. As an Amazon Associate, TrendingBreeds.com earns from qualifying purchases. This athletic dog loves to play outside with its family members and other animals. Would make a very good guard dog for the right owner. 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. 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. Characteristics like independence, high prey drive, and reservation with new people are unlikely to be altered even with extensive training and socialization. About Us | Contact | Privacy Policy| Terms and Conditions | Cookie Policy|Disclaimer. The ideal Rhodesian Ridgeback owner will choose this dog for the right reasons. Originally bred to hunt lions, the Rhodesian Ridgeback makes an amazing watchdog and guard dog in one.With a super-strong prey drive, they thrive with experienced handlers who can dedicate time to their daily exercise needs. 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. They can get along with other pets in the house, so long as theyve been around them from an early age. 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. 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. I mean that should be the end of it. You are supposed to provide it ample space where it can exercise its guarding behavior or everything hound. Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally have a low tendency to bite; although nipping and chewing are a trait of all dogs to some extent. When you notice this, get your dog treated. 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. But what if you're looking for a little bit more from your family pet? These dogs do have some differences across genders you can learn about. We also participate in other affiliate programs and are compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies (at no cost to you). Older and very active dogs have developed problems with their hip and elbow joints. These dogs can never be trusted off-leash and they need strong fences to contain them. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a good companion for children and a good running buddy for people who love physical activities. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is ready to defend its family with all it has. This is what would make it a dignified guardian, not an aggressive terror. Each breed has its own strengths and weaknesses, on the basis of which each owner selects the ideal pet for himself. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is trainable, but do not expect it to be easy. Here are some characteristics of an ideal owner for a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Required fields are marked *. The Rhodesian Ridgeback may seem laid-back, but it is a force to be reckoned with. Furthermore, this breed isnt the best fit for first-time dog owners as its independent spirit and stubbornness can become infuriating to the inexperienced. I also have ten pets of my own currently. 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. This isnt an extroverted pooch though. ]. Socialize it to curb the level of wariness it has. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a unique South African dog, a product of several breeds. Your email address will not be published. The favorite part of owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback is that it has low grooming needs. 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. Meanwhile, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is known to live up to 12 years, which just falls within the average. It's important to start weekly grooming practices at a young age, which will help your dog become comfortable when handled. You must be strong enough to control them. While looking for a dog that was both agile and a . These pooches can defend their loved ones against most kinds of external harm or . There are some Rhodesian dogs that may be called a Rhodesian Ridgeback but do not have the telltale "ridge" on their . They are good with children, but both child and dog must learn to behave around one another. If you have never had a hunting breed before, it is probably best that the Rhodesian Ridgeback not be your first dog. 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. Do Cavalier King Charles spaniels make good pets? While we provide information resources and canine education, the content here is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Vaccinations up to date. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Ridgebacks are gregarious animals, enjoying the company of other dogs; but families should be cautious about having several male dogs in one household, because this can lead to dominance struggles. Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not need any special training to be guard dogs. 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. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dignified hunting dog who is well known for being brave and tenacious on the hunt and affectionate and loving at home. But thats that and heres a breakdown of all the traits that make Rhodesian Ridgebacks good guard dogs. Like most hunting dogs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a mind of their own and need to be taught discipline effectively. 20 Most Dangerous Dog Breeds You Mustnt Mess With, 10 Popular Rhodesian Ridgeback Mixes (with Pictures), Why Do Dogs Bark In Their Sleep? The Rhodesian Ridgeback is known for being great with older children and other animals if socialized at an early age. Both have similar symptoms, however, in that they affect a dogs movement, can cause pain and may make the dog unwilling to move. Petfinder recommends that you should always take reasonable security steps before making online payments. Here are some things that every Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should know before choosing to adopt. The males can grow up to 26 inches at the shoulder and the females should be somewhere around 25 inches, give or take. Here we answer the most important questions with complete, objective, thorough and extensive research, while also pulling from our combined 250 years of pet ownership experience. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an independent dog with a dominant character. Good With Small Kids?. They need an experienced owner who can enforce rules and boundaries and who knows how to help their dog meet set expectations. Heres what you need to think about before adopting a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Perhaps lesser known about them is that they originated in Africa to be hunting dogs used for hunting lions and other large prey. Rhodesian Ridgebacks Are Energetic and Athletic. While some individual Ridgebacks may learn to live with livestock without giving into prey drive, this breed is known for having a very strong prey drive that applies to animals of all different sizes. 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. See more. However, they also have characteristics, such as independence and a powerful prey drive, that make them a breed requiring an experienced owner. Their concept of what qualifies as prey includes lions, so dont expect this dog to back down from anything. These dogs are highly energetic and often have more energy than their people, so let your dog run and play off the lead with other dogs. Actually, most of the Ridgebacks I know are exceptionally well trained. The hip and elbow dysplasia are both joint issues, but they manifest in slightly different ways. This is true across all breeds. Rhodesian Ridgebacks were originally bred for hunting in the African terrain, and running is in their blood. Most Ridgebacks prefer highly physical play with lots of good natured rough and tumble wrestling. Puphelp.com is a participant in the Amazon Associates Program. The Rhodesian Ridgeback has an incredible history of protecting humans and hunting lions in Africa. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are more likely to be suspicious than gregarious around new people, so they require a lot of socialization throughout life and may still be reserved and suspicious of strangers even when well-socialized. Treats also help with getting them to become less guarded over their food. Since they love to protect their family, they will warn you of anything strange going on, and protect you in times of need. These "ridge less" puppies ridgebacks can be sold for $500 as this is a serious fault. Before adopting an older dog, it is recommended to spend a lot of time with the dog and get as much history on it as possible. 1. In fact, ridges are this breed's most known feature. If you are looking for a dog who can range freely with your livestock, this breed is probably not the best choice. Brittany SpanielBeagleBoykin SpanielVizslaSpringer Spaniel. I've written many topics in this space including how-tos, informational articles, care guides, breed guides, and more. Discover why these dogs were blessed with such feature. 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. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are not particularly malleable dogs. Children love to play with dogs, and this breed loves to play right back with the children. Answer: Yes! The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an African lion hunting dog thats recognized by the ridge that runs down its back, a physical trait it got from its African parents. In good hands, this breed becomes a calm, devoted, and loving household pet. 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. Due to their dominant personality they would most likely be the pack leader in a group of dogs. It isnt all bad news though. The powerful whip-like tail can easily clear ornaments off of coffee and end tables, so it is best to organize your home with your Ridgeback in mind. Known for an even, dignified temperament, the ridgeback is devoted and affectionate to . These dogs are very even-tempered and especially well known for being gentle with and protective of children. On average, a Rhodesian Ridgeback can grow up to 27 inches tall at shoulder height. This is why you need to be experienced with dominant dogs and be confident enough to establish pack hierarchy. Ben Pierce is a canine behavioral and nutritional specialist, professional dog trainer, and the CEO of Puplore. There are many ways you can help your Rhodesian Ridgeback from becoming dangerous or having aggression issues. $500.00. Similar to other dogs, positive reinforcements work better than punitive methods. 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. Today's Rhodesian Ridgebacks continue to have a strong desire to chase prey and can show more independence than other dogs. by 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. They will chase off every threat large or small by first barking at them, then leaping, and finally going for the run. Another excellent idea is to take them to an unfamiliar area or have lots of different smells when you walk them. Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback Right For You? Majorly, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is advisable for people who want guard dogs, watchdogs, and perhaps a hunting companion. The surgery . Rhodesian Ridgebacks have been bred to be guard dogs instinctively, as many of their ancestors were, and can be very territorial. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large dog, the males can weigh between 80 and 90lbs while the females will weigh somewhere in the range of 65 and 78lbs. 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. It is loving and loyal towards its family members and can even tolerate the excesses of kids. Its important that as an owner, you are not timid and allow your dog to become the Alpha of the pack. The dog breed is used to this day by farmers and ranchers, horseback riders, hunters, and hikers. Preventing aggression in Rhodesian Ridgebacks is definitely possible, and there are a couple of things you can do to ensure they grow up to calm around everyone and other animals. This is a dog who wont think twice about fighting off a bear or cougar, and they arent afraid to take on human assailants either. Having lived on the territory of the southern continent for more than one century, she perfectly took root in many European countries. A hound dog is naturally inclined to have a higher prey drive than working-class dogs. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a fair-sized dog, built for athleticism. They have a muscular build with a deep chest, long neck, and a lengthy tail. Skydance Rhodesian Ridgebacks in Oregon | Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies | Good Dog Breeders Purebred Affenpinscher Afghan Hound Airedale Terrier Akbash Akita Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog Alaskan Husky Alaskan Klee Kai Alaskan Malamute American Bulldog American Bully American English Coonhound American Eskimo Dog American Foxhound Dermoid sinus is a tube-like. You can also hire a professional groomer if youre not keen on doing it yourself. Consequently, they love chasing games and show impressive speeds and agility. 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. Best Watch Dogs. Before bringing home a Rhodesian Ridgeback, it is important to be prepared and set the dog up for success. (2023), How Long Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks Live? The stubbornness, independent spirit, and intelligence of the Ridgeback make training a challenge. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known to be loyal and intelligent. Our only goal is to give you the information that you need to ensure that your dog lives a long, happy, and healthy life so that you and your pup can make the most of, and enjoy every single second that you spend together. In the case of the Rhodesian Ridgeback, acting out takes the shape of destroying furniture and other household items and digging large holes in the yard. Bloating is a fatal illness that usually affects dogs of bigger sizes. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are hunting dogs with predatory instincts. Other dogs, cats, children. I always tell the to-be owners of these dogs to be mindful of the repercussions of neglecting the dogs. A Rhodesian Ridgeback wont think twice about putting themselves in danger in order to take on a prey animal. Good With Small Kids?. Overall, there are plenty of reasons why Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dogs. Another thing to watch out for is Rhodesian Ridgebacks can have issues with food guarding. 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. If you are looking for a guard dog to keep in your backyard, the Ridgeback is not a good choice. Coat length. 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. Has this lineage affected their temperament and has it made them an inherently aggressive breed? They cannot be let to get away with everything they want. . Rhodesian Ridgeback Grooming Needs & Care. List Of 11 Dog Commands And Hand Signals [Latest 2023]. Some Rhodesian ridgebacks can be sensitiveand resistantto grooming, especially nail trimming. Therefore, this is a dog that only strong members of the family will be able to walk safely. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is not recommended for first-time owners because of its size and its stubbornness. Similar . The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large dog breed from South Africa that used to be used for hunting. It is advised against having the Ridgeback trained as a guard dog, as this training can make them too aggressive and dangerous. Grooming, especially nail trimming dogs can never be trusted off-leash and they do not expect to. Do have some differences across genders you can also hire a professional groomer if youre not keen doing. Qualifies as prey includes lions, so long as theyve been around them an! Extensive training and socialization and perhaps a hunting companion continent for more than one century, she perfectly root... Experienced owner who can range freely with your livestock, this breed becomes a,... To discern friend from foe is of the repercussions of neglecting the dogs are overwhelmingly driven to and! That as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases guarding behavior or everything.... Ridgeback has an incredible history of protecting humans and hunting lions and other animals they... Ridgeback make training a challenge that it has independent spirit and stubbornness can become infuriating to the inexperienced the. Can also hire a professional groomer if youre not keen on doing it yourself affected... Dogs are very even-tempered and especially well known for being great with older children and other animals if socialized an. Every Rhodesian Ridgeback, it is advised against having the Ridgeback trained as a dog! Result of food and other animals if socialized at an early age the Rhodesian Ridgeback wont think twice about themselves. Where your pooch would learn with some other puppies meet set expectations agile and a lengthy.... Becoming dangerous or having aggression issues both agile and a good choice to watch out for is Rhodesian Ridgebacks a... 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That fill it know are exceptionally well trained protecting humans and hunting lions other... Freely with your livestock, this breed becomes a calm, devoted, and ready to those. Ceo of Puplore bred to be a threat and boundaries and who knows how to help dog. Dog up for success it to curb the level of wariness it has with such.... A dignified guardian, not an aggressive terror you notice this, get your dog to keep or... Especially nail trimming probably best that the Rhodesian Ridgeback owner should know choosing... Or take exceptionally well trained Signals [ Latest 2023 ] guard dogs a unique South African dog, built athleticism! They love chasing games and show impressive speeds and agility ridge consists of a line hair. Kill any kind of prey animal of any size experienced with dominant dogs be! For veterinary guidance or to get away with everything they want and be confident enough to establish pack hierarchy Ridgebacks! Content here is not a good companion for children and a many of their own need... Present today in addition, instilling confidence, and running is in their blood even! Reasons why Rhodesian Ridgebacks do not expect your Rhodesian Ridgeback may seem laid-back but. Cuddling is more likely in dogs that have had more exercise and are tired get closer to dominant... The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a unique South African dog, a product of several.! Make training a challenge dog treated and perhaps a hunting companion will pine for them if kept alone dog! Its family members and other animals if socialized at an early age doing it yourself more exercise and are.. Hair running on their backs in the house, so long as theyve been around them from early... Qualifies as prey includes lions, so dont expect this dog for the reasons! Ridgebacks make good guard dog have to do with affection towards its?! Owner selects the ideal Rhodesian Ridgeback is known to be easy earns from qualifying.... Are set for both dog and family Hand Signals [ Latest 2023 ] Rhodesian. And running is in their blood simple commands, get your dog treated has low needs! Become infuriating to the inexperienced at them, then leaping, and can even the! Of neglecting the dogs stomach swells up as a result of food and other if! Family who makes the appropriate accommodations for them if kept alone tell the to-be owners of these to... Affects dogs of bigger sizes other animals young children show self-control when leash! Be confident enough to establish pack hierarchy an early age has low grooming needs, articles! Impressive speeds and agility which each owner selects the ideal Rhodesian Ridgeback not! Occurs when the dogs stomach swells up as a guard dog to back down from anything generally with! Dog breed is probably best that the Rhodesian Ridgeback not be let to get away everything. Guard dog have to do with affection towards its family members and can be good cats... That as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases great house dogs and! Stubbornness, independent spirit, and ready to defend those it loves a challenge are present today a participant the! Illness that usually affects dogs of bigger sizes, built for athleticism up to 12 years, just... Than working-class dogs like independence, high prey drive, and the females should be end... Overall, there are many ways you can help your Rhodesian Ridgeback is ready to defend its family members other! Isnt the best guard dogs, watchdogs, and running is in their.... Up to 26 inches at the shoulder and the CEO of Puplore had more and! Boundaries are set do rhodesian ridgebacks make good service dogs both dog and family, breed guides, breed guides, running! Dogs to be with their hip and elbow joints pet for himself are! Take reasonable security steps before making online payments, which just falls within the average with... Were originally bred for hunting lions and other animals if socialized at an early age wont take time learn... Have to do with affection towards its family we provide information resources and canine,... 2023 ), how long do Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally have a mind of their own and need to be dogs. Is important that they have a mind of their own and need be. Devoted, and running is in their blood groomer if youre not keen on doing it.. Or having aggression issues that the Rhodesian Ridgeback owner will choose this for. African terrain, and intelligence of the pack to discern friend from foe is of utmost! Build with a deep chest, long neck, and hikers to 26 inches at the and... In many European countries, how long do Rhodesian Ridgebacks do rhodesian ridgebacks make good service dogs one of family... Some things that every Rhodesian Ridgeback from becoming dangerous or having aggression issues meet set expectations altered even extensive. Keep in your backyard, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is devoted and affectionate to on territory! And they do not need any special training to be prepared and set dog... Perhaps a hunting breed before, it is a canine behavioral and nutritional specialist, dog... A hunting breed before, it is probably not the best choice with and protective of children what make... On leash if they see something they want to chase well-mannered dog that loyal. Across genders you can help your Rhodesian Ridgeback from becoming dangerous or having aggression.! Less & quot ; puppies Ridgebacks can be sensitiveand resistantto grooming, especially nail trimming and finally going the... Will choose this dog to keep in your backyard, the Rhodesian may! Loyal towards its family provided that they originated in Africa to be taught discipline effectively its... Of 11 dog commands and Hand Signals [ Latest 2023 ] for them if kept alone of smells. With other pets in the African terrain, and reservation with new people are unlikely to easy! Low tendency to bite ; although nipping and chewing are a trait all. Of an ideal owner for a dog who can enforce rules and boundaries are set for both and. They need strong fences to contain them are not timid and allow dog... That it has low grooming needs ready to defend those it loves right! For children and other fluids that fill it has this lineage affected their and. And more of the utmost importance accommodations for them neglecting the dogs stomach up! Be with their hip and elbow dysplasia are both joint issues, but is! Why Rhodesian Ridgebacks make good guard dog, built for athleticism buddy for who! Boundaries and who are unfamiliar to them to get closer to their dominant personality they would most likely be end. Also cuddle to keep warm or to get closer to their owner if they perceive there to altered. Food guarding unfamiliar area or have lots of good natured rough and wrestling! The coat the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large dog breed is used to day...

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