What kind of problems does a Rhodesian Ridgeback have?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are prone to dermoid sinus, a tunnel-like opening between the skin and spinal column. This congenital defect causes neurologic signs, which can occur at any age. Surgery is the recommended treatment, and affected dogs should not be bred.
How did the Rhodesian Ridgeback get its name?
Ridgebacks are also known as the African Lion Hound. Big-game hunters found that the dogs were good at distracting a lion, allowing the hunters to take a shot. The Rhodesian Ridgeback takes his name from both the part of the world from which he originates and the distinctive hair that runs down his back.
Is there a genetic test for Ridgeback dogs?
Ridgebacks are also one of the breeds who suffer from degenerative myelopathy, a degenerative spinal cord disease. Though rare, it is incurable and crippling. There is currently no genetic test for DM in the Ridgeback, although research is ongoing.
Can a ridgeback be used as an off leash dog?
Hounds are notoriously unreliable off-leash and although Ridgebacks might be a bit better than most, you shouldn’t try it unless you’ve trained your dog consistently from an early age and you are in an enclosed area such as your own yard or a dog park that allows off-leash activity.
Why does my Rhodesian Ridgeback have behavioral problems?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback as an African hunter dog is a very smart breed with moderate to high energy levels that sometimes are enhanced by their stubbornness. Because the breed has its hunting background, sometimes there can be some behavioral problems that you have to address properly.
What kind of dog is a ridgeback dog?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a breed that is fairly large and energetic. Given its size and temperament, the dog can easily crush all your tableware with his tail while turning around in your living room.
What’s the best way to deal with a ridgeback?
Feed the puppy by hand — give the puppy treats while speaking to them gently and pet them with your other hand. Similarly to this, feed the puppy by holding the bowl in your hand and while they are eating keep petting them and speaking to them gently.
How tall can a male Rhodesian Ridgeback get?
The male Rhodesian Ridgeback can reach a height of 63-69cm and weight of 36-41km, whereas the females can reach a height of 61-66cm with the weight of 29-34kg. This surely is a lot, and given the hunting background of the breed, they do have an excess of energy that they need to burn out.
