Rhodesian Ridgeback for Sale

About Rhodesian Ridgeback

Just like its name suggests, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is originally from Southern Africa, specifically Rhodesia. Their history dates back to the 16th century, when European settlers found the Khoikhoi dog living with local Hottentot tribes and bred them with Mastiffs, Greyhounds, Bloodhounds, and Great Danes. They are named after the hair on their spine that turns forward. Due to their keen sense of sight and scent, these dogs fall within the category of working breeds. At first, they were known as the African Lion Hound.

Physical Appearance

The Rhodesian Ridgeback Temperament

Before seeking a Rhodesian ridgeback puppy for sale, you should know what to expect with regard to their behavior. Some of the typical Rhodesian ridgeback characteristics include:

1. High prey drive - They are bred to hunt, so they instinctively chase other animals
2. Trainable - They are obedient and intelligent, making them easy to train. 
3. Quiet - They rarely bark unless necessary
4. Gentle - If well trained, they are not prone to aggression, just like their relative the Mastiff
5. Independent - They have a mind of their own and will follow their own will
6. Energetic - This dog loves to run around and play
7. Sensitive - They are perceptive and can read people’s energies
8. Affectionate - They show love to their families, so they are good for families
9. Dignified - They do not show aggression or shyness toward strangers

The Rhodesian Ridgeback Care Guide

1. Diet and Nutrition

These dogs require foods like:

• Quality kibble
• Meat e.g. beef, chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, pork, fish, etc.
• Vegetables e.g. broccoli, cabbage, carrots, pumpkin, garlic, spinach, kale, lettuce, etc.
• Fruits e.g. apples, bananas, blueberries, pineapple, strawberry, watermelon, apricots, etc.
• Supplements e.g. omega-3 fatty acids, biotin, zinc, probiotics, glucosamine, etc.
• Eggs
• Cheese
• Yogurt
• Peanut butter
• Water

While kibble is convenient, homemade meals are healthier and more affordable in the long run. They require 640 to 780 grams, which can be divided into 60% raw bones with meat on them, 15 or 20% pureed vegetables, 10 to 15% liver or offals, plus extras like eggs and supplements. Once you find your Rhodesian ridgeback mix puppies for sale, you can contact your vet for dietary recommendations. 

2. Physical Exercise and Training

These high-energy pups require at least two hours of exercise per day. This means that you need to properly schedule walks once you get your Rhodesian ridgeback mix puppies for sale since they may get restless and destructive. They also enjoy activities like walks, swims, and runs, so they can accompany you as exercise partners. These dogs can walk all day, so you must plan accordingly.

While these dogs are generally stubborn, they do well in training. Training should begin in puppyhood to get them used to following commands, but adolescents can be quite unruly. Experts advise you to remain consistent, be firm but use positive reinforcement, and start with one-word commands. Early socialization is also important to prevent them from chasing other animals. You could also opt to take them to training classes where an expert can help mold them into obedient and well-mannered dogs. 

The Greyhound, which is closely related to this breed, has similar needs. 

3. Grooming and Hygiene

The Rhodesian ridgeback has minimal grooming needs. They do shed, but it is manageable since they have a short coat. A weekly brushing will keep them neat, but you should also trim their nails when necessary. Additionally, you should clean their ears and express their anal glands every 1 or 2 months. Every month, you need to bathe them. Since these dogs tend to suffer from skin issues, you should give them 2 baths each time. The first bath should be a general bath and the second bath should be a medicated dog shampoo. 

4. Potential Health Issues and Allergies

These pups are at risk of diseases like:

• Degenerative myelopathy
• Distichiasis
• Entropion
• Hypothyroidism
• Cataracts
• Deafness
• Hip dysplasia
• Dermoid sinus
• Obesity
• Parasitic infections
• Glaucoma
• Mast cell tumors
• Hemivertebrae
• Symmetrical lupoid onychodystrophy
• Allergies to chocolate, xylitol, onions, garlic, chives, pollen, dust mites, flea saliva etc.

Starting at the age of 10 weeks, they should get vaccines for parainfluenza, parvovirus, distemper, rabies, and adenovirus. A good diet, regular exercise, and vet visits can also help extend their lifespans especially if certain illnesses are detected early on so be sure to plan for these costs before seeking a Rhodesian ridgeback for sale near me.

Where To Find Rhodesian Ridgebacks For Sale

As you can tell, this breed is good for a dog lover seeking a guard dog with relatively low grooming needs. For this reason, many breeders will post ads for those seeking a Rhodesian ridgeback puppy for sale. While these owners can be found in your town, they are more accessible online. On our site, people who do not live around these breeders and owners can find Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies for sale near me. You can also find ads for an adult Rhodesian ridgeback for sale near me if you prefer an older dog.

You can also find other dogs like the Bloodhound. 

Pros and Cons Of The Rhodesian Ridgeback

Pros 

• Trainable
• Loyal
• Intelligent 
• Brave
• Affectionate
• Good with disciplined children

Cons

• Aggressive to other animals if not well-trained
• Large appetite
• Stubborn

For comparison, you can check out the Great Dane which is closely related before you find Rhodesian ridgebacks for sale under $500. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the price of a Rhodesian ridgeback puppy and adult?

The average Rhodesian ridgeback price for a puppy is $1000 to $2500 while a full-grown pup can go for up to $3000. Pedigree pups may cost more since they are required to meet higher standards and also go through extensive health checkups, but you can still find Rhodesian ridgebacks for sale under $500. 

2. How do you prepare vegetables for your dog?

You should puree raw vegetables before giving them to your dog. Dogs require mostly raw food, as cooking food strips them of most of the nutrients they need. 

3. Do dogs get bored of their food?

Dogs do not appreciate much variety since they have fewer taste buds so they don’t need constant dietary changes. However, you may switch their foods if they stop eating.

4. Can I keep my Rhodesian ridgeback off-leash in public?

Yes, if they are well-trained and obedient. If they are stubborn, you need to keep them leashed. 

5. Are Rhodesian ridgebacks good for first-time owners?

No. These dogs are stubborn and strong; hence they need an experienced owner. 

Summary

In short, the Rhodesian ridgeback is a large athletic dog native to South Africa. This breed is a result of European settlers in the region combining breeds like the Khoikhoi dog, Mastiff, Great Dane, Greyhound, and Bloodhound. They have minimal grooming needs and are known for their loyalty and bravery. If you would like to adopt this dog, consider the ads posted on our site, where breeders and owners list Rhodesian ridgeback puppies for sale near me. Sign up today and meet your new pup today.