A huge hound dog breeds from Africa, the Rhodesian ridgeback has a short, smooth coat and a unique fur ridge running down its spine. In contrast to the rest of the fur, the ridge develops upward. Because they were trained to hunt large wildlife, such as lions, ridgebacks have a strong prey drive. They might not be the best breed for novice dog owners because they require continuous training and appropriate socialization. They have a tendency to be devoted and kind toward their family, nevertheless.
Care as a Pet/ In Captivity
Rhodesian ridgebacks require a committed owner who can give them regular exercise, continuous training, and socializing. If these big, strong canines are not well-behaved, they can be challenging to control. Fortunately, they only require simple grooming.
Exercise
For their happiness and health, Rhodesian ridgebacks require both regular physical activity and mental engagement. Every day, give your child at least an hour of exercise in the form of brisk walks, jogs, hikes, games, and other activities. This breed also does exceptionally well in lure coursing, agility, and other dog sports. Dog sports are a great opportunity for your dog to test its intellect in addition to getting some exercise.
When outside, always keep your ridgeback on a leash or in a safe place. Otherwise, it can start running after what it thinks is prey. Since many ridgebacks enjoy digging, it’s crucial to have a fence that they can’t climb or dig through.
Grooming
Although the ridgeback’s coat loses somewhat, little grooming is necessary. To disperse oils and remove stray fur, brush once a week. In the spring and fall, when the weather changes, you can notice more shedding, necessitating weekly brushing. Depending on how unclean it becomes, give your dog a bath every month or so. Additionally, inspect the ears once a week for any debris, redness, or other abnormalities.
About once a month, check the nails to see if they need to be trimmed. Instead of using a clipper, some ridgebacks perform better using a nail grinder. Aim to regularly brush your dog’s teeth.
Nutrition and Diet
Always give your Rhodesian ridgeback fresh water. Give your dog a high-quality, nutritionally balanced diet; most owners give their dogs two measured meals daily. Be sure to review the diet and quantity with your veterinarian because the right amount of food will vary depending on characteristics including age, size, and activity level.
To prevent overeating, remember to provide treats and other extra food in your dog’s daily diet. Ridgebacks can easily take food left on tables and countertops because of their size. As a result, make sure your food is always safe. The stomach can twist and bloat in ridgebacks, much like in other deep-chested dog breeds.
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