How common are Ridgeless Rhodesian Ridgebacks?
Roughly 15-20% of puppies born are ridgeless. The wikipedia article on the breed covers it well. In a large litter of 10-12 puppies, it’s possible to have both male and female born ridgeless.
How much money is it for Rhodesian ridge back?
You should expect to pay between $1,700 to $2,500. Senior Rhodesian Ridgebacks from rescue shelters are cheaper and cost ~$500. You will need to invest in activities such as tracking or canine sports like flyball to help mentally and physically exercise this high energy breed.
Are Ridgeless Ridgebacks healthier?
Ridgeless dogs are not healthier but are no less RR than a ridged one. The ridge came from the local Hotintot (sp) hunting dogs which were bred with the settlers dogs as they were fierce hunters and not a fault bred into them.
Can Ridgebacks not have a ridge?
Ridgeless Rhodesian Ridgebacks don’t carry the ridge gene at all, and cannot produce ridged offspring any more than a Chesapeake Bay retriever or Chihuahua can. Ridgeback breeders who are interested in ridge inheritance often forget that not having a ridge is the normative state in dogs.
Why do some Ridgebacks not have a ridge?
The ridge gene is a dominant mutation that makes our ridged dogs different. Homozygous dogs — those with two copies of the gene — will never produce ridgeless. That’s because, when it comes time for homozgyous Ridgebacks to donate one of their two genes to offspring, all they have to pass on is a ridge gene.
Why do Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a ridge on their backs?
What is it? The distinctive ridge on the back is formed by the hair growing in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat.
Where do Ridgebacks get their Ridge?
What is it? The distinctive ridge on the back is formed by the hair growing in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. Ideally, the ridge should be clearly defined, tapering, and symmetrical.
Why does a Ridgeback have a ridge?
The ridge of Rhodesian Ridgebacks is caused by a mutation resulting in duplication of a length of DNA coding for three growth factor genes. This mutation, which has an autosomal dominant pattern of inheritance also causes dermoid sinuses.
