Loyal and Protective

Ridgebacks are naturally loyal and protective, making them excellent family watchdogs.

Calm and Affectionate at Home

Despite their hunting background, they are often calm and affectionate with their families, particularly indoors.

Low Grooming Needs

Their short coat requires minimal grooming, with light seasonal shedding.

Good with Children

When raised with them, Ridgebacks are known to be patient and gentle with children.

High Exercise Needs

Ridgebacks are energetic and require regular, vigorous exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior.

Strong Prey Drive

Their hunting background gives them a strong prey drive, making them less suited to homes with small pets.

Independent and Stubborn

They can be strong-willed and may require an experienced handler to provide consistent training.

Not Ideal for Small Spaces

Their size and energy level make them better suited to homes with yards rather than apartments.

Exercise Needs

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are high-energy dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their health and happiness. They enjoy outdoor activities like running, hiking, and playing. Without sufficient exercise, they can become bored and develop destructive behaviors like chewing or digging.

Walks

Ridgebacks need at least two long walks or runs per day, along with time to play and explore. They also benefit from mentally stimulating activities like puzzle toys or structured play.

Training

Ridgebacks are intelligent but can be independent and stubborn, which can make training a challenge. Early obedience training is crucial, and they respond best to positive reinforcement methods. Consistency, patience, and firm leadership are key to successfully training a Ridgeback.

Purchase Price

$3,000 - $7,000 AUD depending on breeder and lineage.

Initial Setup

Around $400 - $600 AUD. (crate, bed, toys, etc.)

Food

Approximately $1,200 - $1,800 AUD per year, depending on dietary needs and size.

Grooming

Minimal grooming costs, typically around $200 - $400 AUD per year. Their short coat requires occasional brushing, with regular ear cleaning and nail trimming recommended.

Vet Bills

Initial vaccinations, microchipping, and desexing can cost around $600 - $1,200 AUD. Ongoing annual check-ups and preventive care could cost $500 - $1,000 AUD per year, with additional costs for managing joint or digestive issues.

Total Lifetime Cost

Over a 10-12 year lifespan, the total cost of ownership can range from $25,000 - $50,000 AUD, depending on health and lifestyle factors.

Size and Weight

Rhodesian Ridgebacks typically stand 61-69 cm (24-27 inches) tall and weigh between 30-40 kg (66-88 lbs), with males generally being larger than females.

Coat

Ridgebacks have a short, dense coat that is easy to care for. The hallmark of the breed is the ridge of hair along their spine that grows in the opposite direction from the rest of the coat. Grooming needs are low, with occasional brushing to remove dead hair and maintain coat health.

Colour Options

The standard color for Ridgebacks is wheaten, ranging from light to red wheaten. Some Ridgebacks may have white markings on their chest and toes.

Temperament

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are known for their confident, independent, and calm temperament. They are loyal to their families and protective when necessary but are often reserved or aloof around strangers. Despite their strong and muscular appearance, Ridgebacks can be affectionate and playful with their families, making them excellent companions.

Good with Children

Ridgebacks are generally good with children, especially if raised with them. They are patient and protective, although supervision is recommended around young children due to their size and strength.

Socialisation

Early socialization is essential to ensure Ridgebacks are well-adjusted and comfortable around other dogs, people, and new environments. Their natural aloofness towards strangers can be managed with early exposure to various experiences.

Indoors vs. Outdoors

Ridgebacks prefer to live indoors with their families but need regular outdoor time for exercise and play. They are not suited for living outdoors full-time due to their strong bond with their family and preference for human interaction. They thrive in homes with access to a yard or outdoor space where they can run and play.

Apartment Living

Due to their size and exercise needs, Ridgebacks are not ideal for apartment living unless they have access to regular outdoor exercise. They are better suited to homes with secure yards where they can be active.

Time Alone

Ridgebacks can tolerate being left alone for moderate periods but thrive on companionship. They may become bored or anxious if left alone for too long, so they are best suited to homes where someone is present for much of the day or where they have another dog for companionship.

Climate Adaptability

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are well-suited to Australia’s warmer climates due to their short coat, which provides some protection from heat. However, care should be taken to provide plenty of water and shade, and to avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest parts of the day. In colder climates, Ridgebacks may need extra warmth, such as a dog jacket.

Common Health Issues

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are generally healthy, but like many large breeds, they can be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and bloat (gastric torsion). Another breed-specific condition to be aware of is dermoid sinus, a congenital condition affecting the skin. Regular vet check-ups, a balanced diet, and proper exercise are important to keeping them healthy.

Ethical Breeding Considerations

Due to their predisposition to certain genetic conditions, such as hip dysplasia and dermoid sinus, it is important to purchase from a reputable breeder who conducts health screenings. Ethical breeding practices help reduce the risk of hereditary health problems and ensure the well-being of the puppies.

Guarding Ability

Ridgebacks are naturally protective and make excellent guard dogs. Their size and imposing presence act as a deterrent, and they are known to alert their owners to strangers or unusual activity.

Affectionate Nature

Despite their size and strength, Ridgebacks are affectionate and enjoy spending time with their families. They are known for being calm and gentle at home, often seeking attention and companionship from their owners.

Suitability for Dog Parks

Ridgebacks can be social with other dogs but may exhibit dominant or aloof behavior, particularly around unfamiliar dogs. Supervision is recommended in social settings like dog parks, and early socialization helps ensure positive interactions with other pets.