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Rhodesian Ridgeback breed profile

Training and intelligence
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are intelligent, but they can also be independent thinkers, so it crucial to establish that he must follow your lead. These are tall, sturdy, powewrful dogs, and it is vital to start training as early as possible. They are naturally very clean, which is helpful in housetraining.

Temperament
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is bold and determined, but loyal and affectionate too. They can be very tolerant with children if they are brought up with them, although their sheer size and exuberance when young can cause accidents. They are generally gentle with their families, and those people their family introduces.

Attitude towards strange dogs and people
Rhodesian Ridgebacks have very defensive instincts, and they will act to protect their terriotory and people if they feel it is necessary. Strange people are not necessarily viewed as friends, and this is definitely a breed that needs socialisation.

Grooming and shedding
The short Rhodesian Ridgeback coat sheds little, and needs little grooming. They do not have a strong doggy smell - apparently a hangover from their hunting history, where a strong scent would have been a giveaway to prey.

Exercise
When young, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are exuberant and boisterous, although they do gradually calm down into a more dignified adulthood. They do require a considerable amount of exercise; while not plaguing you to take them out, they will always be ready for more.

Need for company
Rhodesian Ridgebacks love their people, and bond with them very closely. They don't like to be left alone too much, and can become destructive. A habit of barking can develop if left alone too much.

General
Rhodesian Ridgebacks were originally used to hunt lions, which shows a lot about their strength of character. They have healthy appetites, love their food, and will drool if they have to wait for it. They can jump high, so secure fencing is a must, and some enjoy swimming.

Sharing

279 - mushrooms for dogs and using parenting principles with pets

In this podcast, Dr Rob Silver reveals how mushroom's can be good for our dogs - and us. Wendy Lyons Sunshine explains how implementing parenting methods with our dogs can improve our relationship with them.

189 - The Dog Healers and War Dogs Remembered

In this episode you can hear Mark Winik talk about his debut novel, The Dog Healers, and listen to Julia Robertson explain why she founded the charity War Dogs remembered. Plus there's the DogCast Radio News, and what Mischief the German Spitz puppy has been up to.

188 - Service Dogs UK and Roxie the Doxie Finds Her Forever Home

In this episode you can hear about Service Dogs UK, a fantastic charity which trains assistance dogs to support veterans of any service - military personnel, police, firefighters, paramedics and the coastguard - who develop Post Traumatic Stress Disorder due to their job. Also, listen to Dr Jody A Dean, a clinical psychologist talk about how her book, Roxie the Doxie finds her Forever Home, is helping children understand and talk about adoption and other family issues. Plus the DogCast Radio News and some thoughts on the alpha dog myth.

187 - Muffins Halo and Chorley Fun Dog Show

In this episode you can hear about Muffin's Halo for Blind Dogs, and what motivates people to enter their dog in a fun dog show. In the DogCast Radio News, listen to stories about the latest dog related research. Plus there's a new member of the DogCast Radio team!

186 - Maxwell Muir on wolves

In this episode you can hear trainer, behaviourist, writer, broadcaster and wolf expert Maxwell Muir talk about what wolves mean to him personally, their plight in a modern world, and his hopes for their future. Plus we have the DogCast Radio News.