Rhodesian Ridgeback: Temperament and Everyday Care

A Ridgeback suits an experienced, active owner who wants a loyal, dignified and athletic dog. They are often reserved with strangers, independent in training and strong-willed as adolescents. Plan for plenty of exercise, firm but kind reward-based training, secure fencing and early socialization.

A wheaten Rhodesian Ridgeback standing side-on on dry grassland, ridge visible along its back — The ridge: hair growing the other way.

Breed-standard figures; individual dogs vary.

Rhodesian Ridgeback at a glance
Height	Males about 25–27 inches (63–69 cm); females about 24–26 inches (61–66 cm)
Weight	About 85 lb (39 kg) for males and 70 lb (32 kg) for females in the AKC standard
Lifespan	Over 10 years
Coat	Short and sleek, with the ridge; a weekly brush
Exercise	More than 2 hours a day
Bred for	Hunting and guarding in southern Africa

Who a Ridgeback Suits

Ridgebacks are loyal and affectionate with their family, calm indoors when well exercised, and often aloof with strangers. They suit experienced owners who enjoy training and outdoor time.

They are a harder fit for first-time owners, homes with small pets, and anyone without secure fencing.

Training and Socialization

Ridgebacks are clever but independent. Short, consistent reward-based sessions and lots of calm socialization in the first two years pay off. Counter-surfing is a breed pastime; keep food out of reach.

Exercise

The Royal Kennel Club suggests more than two hours of exercise a day. Many enjoy running with their owners once fully grown. Their chase drive is strong, so use a long line in open spaces.

Gear for a Ridgeback

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A sturdy harness and long line for strong dogs, a basket muzzle where the law requires one, a tough chew toy, and a supportive bed for a lean dog with bony joints.

Health: What to Ask the Breeder and Your Vet

In the UK, The Royal Kennel Club lists a DNA test for juvenile myoclonic epilepsy and hip and elbow scoring as good practice for Ridgeback breeders, with a DNA test for degenerative myelopathy as best practice. Ask about dermoid sinus checks in the litter, and see the parents' results.

Book a check-up soon after your dog comes home, keep it lean, and ask your vet about vaccinations, neutering and a parasite prevention plan for where you live.

Worming, flea and tick products and any medicines: see your vet or a pet supply store with trained staff. They can tell you what suits your dog.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ridge, recall and rules come up most.

What is the ridge?

A strip of hair along the back that grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. It is the breed's trademark.

Are Ridgebacks good family dogs?

With experienced owners and good training, often yes. They are loyal but strong-willed.

Are Ridgebacks restricted anywhere?

In Ireland they are on the restricted breeds list. Rules elsewhere differ; check locally.

Do Ridgebacks shed?

A little. The short coat needs only a weekly brush.