Willmar Kennels - FAQs About Rhodesian Ridgebacks

The Rhodesian Ridgeback, sometimes referred to as The African Lion Hound, was developed in South Africa by the blending of dogs brought by Dutch immigrants such as Mastiffs, Danes, Greyhounds, Terriers with the Hottentot tribe's half wild dog that had a distinctive ridge of hair that grew backward along its spine. The Dutch farmers needed a versatile dog that could hunt game, protect the farm from marauders (human and animal) and would stay with him in the bush and also be devoted to his wife and family. Big game hunters in the late 1800's like Van Rooyen and Upcher and others, who enjoyed hunting lions by horseback, found that the Ridgeback had exceptional hunting qualities and an innate enmity with lions. In 1922, a group of Rhodesian breeders set up the standard for the breed that has remained virtually unchanged since that time. The Ridgeback was accepted to registry by the AKC in 1955.

Ridgebacks are family dogs, with a keen intelligence for discerning friend or foe, and are never noisy or quarrelsome. By nature a calm, easy-going hound, they can live up to their hunting heritage when used to hunt game such as deer, cougars, wild hogs, and panthers. They are at their best as a companion to their family and can be destructive to property or other animals if left on their own without human interaction.

For more good information about the Rhodesian Ridgeback, see the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States web-site: http://www.rrcus.org/.

Are They Good With Children ?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is placid, easygoing and quite tolerant of children - BUT supervision is advised of both the dog and child, especially children under 5 years of age. As a rule children should treat dogs with respect, i.e. no teasing or tormenting, and no games of chase.

How Much Do They Cost ?
A registered puppy from a reputable breeder will cost about $700 for companion quality, $1200 to $2000 for show quality. The price may vary somewhat between breeders. On occasion, a ridgeless puppy may be born. Ridgeless puppies are the same as other RRs in every way, except they do not have a ridge. This may be the perfect choice for a family on a budget who is primarily interested in a companion dog, as the cost for a ridgeless puppy is generally about $350. Companion quality puppies always require a spay/neuter contract, whereas show quality puppies usually require a commitment to make a reasonable effort to show or have them shown in AKC conformation for championship points.

Are They Easy To Train ?
Ridgebacks are an intelligent breed and will learn quickly, but may become bored or stubborn if you train regimentally. They are a large breed and obedience training, along with animal and human socialization is to be strongly encouraged. If you are looking for a breed to win at obedience trials, Rhodesian Ridgebacks may not be the breed for you

Are They Good Watchdogs ?
They are excellent watchdogs and their deep sounding bark will deter most intruders. Training and socialization will make your dog confident and able to protect in a socially acceptable manner. Protection instincts may take 18 months to 2 years to develop. Ridgebacks need to be taught the limits of acceptable guarding practices, as excessive aggression has NO part in our breed.

Are They Good Companions ?
The best. They are very in tune with their human family and will adjust their own activity or attitude to match

Are They Destructive ?
They can be, if left to their own devices and not included in family activity. They are not the kind of dog to deal well with being ignored and with only minimal daily contact. Frequent quality time spent with your Ridgeback will help prevent destructive behavior.

Are They Good With Other Dogs ?
Yes, provided they are socialized and introduced correctly. It is very important to socialize your dog with other people, animals and dogs.

How Are They With Livestock ?
All dogs, no matter what the breed, will chase if something runs. If you live in a rural area, you should be aware that Ridgebacks have a natural hunting instinct and you need to supervise your dog accordingly.

Are They Good With Cats ?
They can be good with cats if brought up with them but are still effective defending their territory from strays.

What Is Their Life Expectancy ?
Average age is around 10 to 12 years, but they have been known to live to 16.

How Much Do They Eat And Cost To Feed ?
An average adult will cost about $20 a month to feed. The amount they eat greatly varies with age, the amount of exercise and their environment. This needs to be discussed with the breeder on purchase of a pup.

How Much Exercise Do They Need ?
A good run each day is considered desirable for your older puppy (9 months) and adult. The size of your yard needs to be considered when determining the amount of exercise to keep your dog both mentally and physically fit. Excessive exercise for puppies should be avoided. They should be allowed to exercise through play at their own pace or on short walks.

How Do I Choose A Puppy ?
This requires more thought than most people realize. First make sure that this breed suits your needs and will fit into your home and family. Learn as much as you can from people who have owned Ridgebacks. Interview the breeder of a litter just as thoroughly as they will interview you and your family. A true ‘BREEDER’ is always more concerned about the quality and suitability of your home for one of their puppies than in your pocketbook.

Should I Spay Or Neuter My Dog ?
Spaying or neutering your puppy will often encourage stronger bonding with the family as they are less concerned about finding a mate in life. Altering your dog prevents problems such as mammary and uterine cancer in females, and prostate and testicular cancer in males. It is safe to alter your dog any time from 6 months of age.

Fencing ?

It is assumed that anyone wishing to purchase a Ridgeback would have already given some thought to secure fencing. Ridgebacks in general are not prone to jump. Those that are can clear upwards of 5 feet, however, a fence of this height is usually adequate. Footing of fencing should also be considered if your Ridgeback becomes a digger, as they can make a surface mining site look small scale compared to their own ‘mining’ abilities once they get started.

Are There Older Dogs Available ?
At times older dogs do become available. If you meet an older Ridgeback and hit it off, with some patience once the new house rules are learned, you will never know you missed puppyhood together. A lot of reputable breeders frequently place grown individuals provided the family and dog is a good match.