Rhodesian Ridgeback

• ExerciseHigh

  Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• GroomingWash & go

  The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Living spaceHouse with room

  Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Owner experienceFor experienced owners

  Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• Commitment10–12 years

  Plan for a long, loving relationship.

Health to watch: Hip dysplasia · Elbow dysplasia · Hypothyroidism

The Rhodesian Ridgeback, bred in southern Africa to track and corner lions, is a powerful, athletic and famously strong-willed hound with a quiet, dignified affection for its family. Independent and intelligent, it is loyal but not fawning, and its combination of size, drive and stubbornness means it suits an experienced owner who provides early socialisation and patient, positive, consistent training — Ridgebacks do not respond to heavy-handed methods. It needs substantial daily exercise to satisfy its athletic build and hunting heritage, after which it is content to be a calm, clean housemate stretched in a sunny spot. The short coat is wonderfully easy, needing only a weekly brush. Health-wise it is a relatively robust breed, but buy from a breeder who screens hips and elbows, and be aware of a breed-specific issue: the 'dermoid sinus', a congenital defect along the spine that responsible breeders check for. Also watch for hip and elbow dysplasia, hypothyroidism and bloat (feed measured meals and rest after eating). Give a Ridgeback firm, kind leadership, plenty of exercise and early training, and it will be an athletic, quietly devoted companion for ten to twelve years.

• How much exercise does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need?

  High. Needs a good workout or long walk every day.

• How much grooming does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need?

  Wash & go. The occasional brush and bath is plenty.

• Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback suited to apartment living?

  House with room. Does best with room to move and a yard.

• Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback a good fit for first-time owners?

  For experienced owners. Rewards owners who know the ropes.

• How long do Rhodesian Ridgeback live?

  10–12 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.

• What health issues affect the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

  Keep an eye out for Hip dysplasia, Elbow dysplasia, Hypothyroidism. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.

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