How common is dermoid sinus in Rhodesian Ridgebacks?
Number of animals affected 8-10% of the Swedish population of Rhodesian Ridgebacks are affected and the prevalence is increasing (Salmon Hillbertz 2005). The prevalence in other populations is not known, though all Rhodesian Ridgebacks with a ridge are predisposed.
What is the average lifespan of a ridgeback?
10 – 12 years
Rhodesian Ridgeback/Life span
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks one person dogs?
Breed personality, characteristics & temperament The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a delightful nature, being a faithful one-man or family dog. It is very affectionate and likes to lean on you, lie at your feet or sit on your lap if permitted. It is extremely loyal to those it loves.
Do all Rhodesian Ridgebacks 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.
How do you identify a dermoid sinus?
Signs and Symptoms: A dermoid sinus can be recognized at a young age as an opening on the midline of the back with protruding hair, often in a swirl. A tube or cord may be felt beneath the opening.
Why are some Ridgebacks not have a ridge?
A certain number of Ridgebacks are born without ridges. This is due to a genetic fault and reputable breeders are trying to eliminate this characteristic from the breed gene pool. You should know that the ridge is fully visible, in its complete form, at birth. A puppy that does not have a ridge will never have a ridge.
Why do Ridgebacks have a ridge?
We asked Barbara Rupert, an AKC judge of hound breeds, including the Rhodesian Ridgeback, if the ridge had an original purpose. So the farmers focused on breeding the ridged dogs to each other to preserve and maximize these important qualities.
