IS A RHODESIAN RIDGEBACK FOR YOU?
If you are looking for a dog to stay in the back yard, protect your property and be ignored, get a different type of dog. Ridgebacks are "people" dogs. They want to be where you are. A Ridgeback will normally weigh between 70 and 100 pounds. If you let them, they will make themselves comfortable anywhere. That means they will be in your bed, on your sofa, or in your lap. They are a family dog. Therefore they must be well socialized from birth. Both with other people and with other animals. They are very affectionate. It is not a strange sight to see a Ridgeback leaning up against someone for attention, or attempting to rearrange some part of you with their licking. But you must be firm with them from the beginning. They are great thinkers. If you don't set the rules from the start, they will try to be the boss and often win. Give them a focus, love and affection and they will return that affection with their undeviating loyalty. They can bond quickly to your family. So be prepared for a very loyal friend for a very long time.
Many Ridgebacks like water, but not all. Provide a kiddie pool for them, and it will be a common sight to see them lazing around in the water on those hot summer days. There isn't much that Ridgebacks won't eat. If your Ridgeback won't eat, you may want to take them to your veterinarian. But remember. Ridgebacks are known for over eating. If you decide to free feed your Ridgeback, start them as a puppy. We have had great success free feeding without over eating. Excess weight can lead to Hip Dysplasia. To help keep them at a healthy weight, make sure they are not over eating and that they receive plenty of exercise. They are not a small dog. Be careful leaving food unattended around a Ridgeback, they are known thieves. They will sneak it off the kitchen table, the counter, garbage can, or from your children's hand.
Not all Ridgebacks are the same. Some are always happy while others may seem a little more on the shy side. No matter what the personality of your Ridgeback, all are very affectionate. They will want to spend as much time with you as possible. Your Ridgeback may be aloof with strangers, but should always follow your lead. If you tell them that it is ok, they will know it is ok. Ridgebacks want to please. The instinct to protect is very natural in a Ridgeback. Showing protectiveness for you is normal. But they should never show aggression towards people. Dog aggression with their own kind can happen, especially between the females when they are in season.
If you do not have the time to spend with a Ridgeback, please do not get one. Not spending time with your Ridgeback or not socializing them will lead to sadness and depression. They require a lot of time and effort.
If you do have the time and desire to love your Ridgeback then you will have a great companion. Ridgebacks make great family members. They will bond quickly with all members of your family. They do great with children, when taught the proper boundaries. You will have an amazing lifetime companion, full of love and affection.