Ridges 101

Hound group

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is formidable dog, as befitting a breed developed to hunt large African animals and protect property, livestock and family members from harm. They are swift of foot and courageous of heart, devoted to family and especially children. Their ridge of backward-growing hair, which should run from their shoulders down the center of their back, was an unexpected outcome of the use of multiple kinds of dogs in developing the breed, but now it's their definiting feature.

Nationwide Outline Icons Vibrant Blue Heart 24x24pxWhat we love about Ridges

A dog who can hold a lion at bay will always stand up for you

Energy level
Energy LevelEnergy Level
Bark level
  • bark-very-vocalVery vocal
  • bark-talkativeTalkative
  • bark-as-neededAs needed
Size
24 to 27 inches tall
Group Size Large
Lifespan
10 to 12 years
020
Weight
70 to 85 lbs
0150

We want to see pictures of your Ridge!

Tag @NationwidePet on social media!

My pet’s health plannerSM

Mature adult Ridge

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Ridge conditions

risk-level-bar

Skin cancer

risk-level-bar

Hypothyroid disease

risk-level-bar

Lymphatic cancer

Senior Ridge

9+ years

Risk level for common Ridge conditions

risk-level-bar

Splenic cancer

risk-level-bar

Skin cancer

risk-level-bar

Lymphatic cancer

Ridge puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common Ridge conditions

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

Young adult Ridge

10 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Ridge conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

risk-level-bar

Trauma

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

Mature adult Ridge

5 years to 8 years

Risk level for common Ridge conditions

risk-level-bar

Skin cancer

risk-level-bar

Hypothyroid disease

risk-level-bar

Lymphatic cancer

Senior Ridge

9+ years

Risk level for common Ridge conditions

risk-level-bar

Splenic cancer

risk-level-bar

Skin cancer

risk-level-bar

Lymphatic cancer

Ridge puppy

0 to 9 months

Risk level for common Ridge conditions

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

risk-level-bar

Gastroenteritis

risk-level-bar

Conjunctivitis

Young adult Ridge

10 months to 4 years

Risk level for common Ridge conditions

risk-level-bar

Gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV)

risk-level-bar

Trauma

risk-level-bar

Foreign body ingestion

Rhodesian Ridgeback image

Nationwide can help you save on your Rhodesian Ridgeback's health care no matter what lifestage they’re in.

Get your Rhodesian Ridgeback’s health information in a free report

Rhodesian Ridgeback introduction

Movie star Errol Flynn is recognized as the first breeder of Rhodesian Ridgebacks in the United States, keeping them on his Hollywood ranch in the 1930s.

Rhodesian Ridgeback coat care and colors

The Rhodesian Ridgeback's short, smooth coat is easy to care for – weekly brushing will keep it looking great. Because Ridgebacks are strong dogs, acclimate them to nail trims early with positive reinforcement for cooperation. Some tend to drool.

How often should I bathe my Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be bathed monthly, weekly or as needed (if they roll in mud, for example!). Use a pet-specific shampoo and conditioner or an all-in-one product. If your dog’s coat or skin isn’t looking healthy, check with your veterinary healthcare team to see what might be causing the problem.

Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks need haircuts?

Rhodesian Ridgebacks don't need haircuts. Weekly brushing will remove loose fur and keep them looking great.

What kind of coat does my Rhodesian Ridgeback have?

The Rhodesian Ridgeback has a smooth, short coat.

Ridge exercise & training

Loves walks

Exercise level

The stamina and easy gait of the Ridgeback make them an ideal companion for running or long hikes, but they're also happy to just chill.

Independent study

Trainability

As with other dogs developed to act independently, the Ridgeback prefers to do things their way. Consistent handling and reward-based training will help them adjust to modern life. They may be too much dog for first-time owners.

Ridge fun facts

Top girl names for Ridges

100%

of Ridges are female

0%

of Ridges are male

Top boy names for Ridges

Nationwide loves Rhodesian Ridgebacks of every name, from Aaron to Zog the Destroyer

Other breeds like Ridges

Best. Rhodesian Ridgeback insurance. Ever.SM

  • Pet insurance premiums starting at $25/mo.
  • Visit any licensed veterinarian, anywhere
  • Cancel at any time, risk-free