I'm considering getting a Rhodesian Ridgeback, and would luv any info on the breed from past/present owners.

Question

Any information as to what the breed is like as a pet would be great, some of the main things i'm keen to find out tho are, do they molt much? What are there energy levels like, do they want to play all the time, or are they more laid back? Do they mind being left alone during the day, or is that a no no? How much do they eat? Are they quik to start barking for no apparent reason? How much exercise do they need? And finally whats the best/worst thing about owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Obviously i dont expect you to answer all my question, but it would be great if you could touch on a few for me, thanks!

Answer 1

They are a great dog for the right owner. I've rescued and fostered 2 over the years. Both became good dogs.

They can be dog aggressive if you allow it.

I recommend Cesar Millan's books, DVDs and show. I also recommend finding your local Rhodesian Club and meeting several Rhodesians.

Remember club members dogs tend to be better trained and socialized than average owners (not always)

They aren't a super high energy dog in the house as adults. They do need regular exercise. If possible walks twice a day with some off leash running. Consistent kind but firm obedience training. Keep their minds busy. The AKC has Obedience Training clubs listed on their website by state.

It is ok to have a job and leave the dog, but it's best if you can exercise them before you leave. I would crate the dog at first or at least not give it the entire house when you are gone.

They do shed, but it's a single coat so short hair. Rubber brushes work well on them. They are stubborn, but smart. You need to be on top of things and not let little behaviors build to bad behaviors. You have to be a strong alpha leader with this breed or they will take over. Not because they are "mean" but because they are strong mentally and physically. You have can't be a push over or spoil them too much or you can create a dog that bites or attacks other dogs.

http://www.dogbreedinfo.com/rhodesianridgeback.htm

Spay or neuter will help with some of the dog aggression.

I lure course my dogs and RRs are becoming more common at events. AKC has Lure Courses listed by state as well. It is super fun for the dogs and the owners !

http://www.yourpurebredpuppy.com/reviews/rhodesianridgebacks.html

http://www.dog-breeds.net/Rhodesian_Ridgeback.htm

I had a RR owner come by my grooming shop. She said " I can't get her out of the car". I went outside with her. I said " what do you mean you CAN'T get her out?" She didn't want to hurt her baby and when the dog resisted she gave up. The dog was 80lbs. I walked up, put the dog on a choke leash and said COME ! and gave a tiny tug. The dog got up and came to me immediately. The owner was ashamed and I told her to NEVER let her dog win again. Her dog knew damn well I would not put up with games.

http://www.ridgebackrescue.org/special/puppy.html

Consider a rescue. There are RRs needing homes.

Answer 2

I have had two Rhodesian Ridgebacks and they are awesome dogs! Right now I have a 10 month old Rhodesian Ridgeback and he's a great dog.

My Rhodesian is super sweet and very loyal. He's VERY energetic though and needs a lot of play time! He hardly ever barks and when he does it's just a couple barks, not barking on and on and on like some dogs do. He likes to stay inside with me and my other dog most of the day, but he loves being outside too. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very friendly though, they aren't much of guard dogs! Mine loves everyone and everything.

I'd say the best thing about my Rhodesian is how sweet and loyal he is. The worst thing is probably his energy. Sometimes I just can't keep up with him. So, if you don't have a lot of energy or don't have a lot of time to spend with them, it's probably not the best dog for you. They are also very large dogs (mine is 70lbs and he's only 10 months!). Good luck!

Check out the link for some more info:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhodesian_Ridgeback

Answer 3

I consider the Rhodesian Ridgeback and excellent pet for those that like a little larger dog. They can be very protective of their family, therefore, need to be well trained and the owner have control over them. Ours was playful with our 3 year old son and yet very careful with him. She also protected him. They are sight hounds and can be quite fast and they are strong. It is believed that they were created from crossing Gt. Danes with native ridgebacked dogs in Africa. They do shed even though they are short coated but brushing with a curry brush like used on a horse removes the dead and shedding hair very well.

Answer 4

They are AWESOME dogs, but be CAREFULL who you purchase the dog from. This is a "loyal" breed that should be VERY well socialized to prevent them from becomming OVER PROTECTIVE. Purchase ANY dog from a breeder who ONLY breeds ONE breed of dog. Be SURE that you ARE ALLOWED to see I even interact with AT LEAST ONE of the puppies parents. Be SURE you are willing to devote the time required to make your Ridgeback the loving & happy dogs they can be. Backyard breeders with Ridgebacks are NOT A GOOD IDEA!!! because these dogs can as I said become OVER PROTECTIVE!!!!! Find a knowledgeable breeder who is more than willing to answer any questions you may have about the breed & their temperments. A REPUTABLE breeder will gladly talk your ear off with the pride they have in their breed.

Answer 5

I know from experience these can be GREAT dogs! They are beautiful and smart. They have been known to be dog aggressive and I wouldn't reccommend them around babies. You can count on them to bark at a stranger in your yard and they are VERY playful. Leaving them alone is OK if you make sure you have adequate fencing or a kennel or crate(inside). Of the few I've known, two of them were escape artists if left alone in the yard. (They were rescue dogs, and this may have been what lead them to the rescue in the first place.)

Answer 6

go to puppyfinder .com they tell you about the breed hope this helps

Answer 7

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