How Long Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks Live?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks live 10-12 years on average. Here is the AKC breed profile, the health areas to stay ahead of, and how to give a Rhodesian Ridgeback more good years.
Breed profile
Breed profile and trait ratings: American Kennel Club. Trait scores are AKC ratings from 1 to 5.
At 85 pounds, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large breed. Large breeds tend to age faster and live a few years less than small dogs, which its 10-12 years average reflects.
Does a Rhodesian Ridgeback fit your life?
A powerful, watchful breed that turns into a real softie around its own family and children, quiet indoors compared to most guardian breeds. It needs a confident, consistent hand and enough mental work to stay out of trouble.
A great match if you
- Your children are in patient, gentle company with this breed.
- You want a natural, watchful protector for the household.
- A quieter home suits you, this breed rarely barks without real reason.
- Consistent guidance pays off fast, this breed responds well to training.
- You're after a deeply loyal, affectionate companion.
Think twice if
- This breed needs its mind kept busy, or that intelligence turns into trouble.
- Other dogs and new people call for gradual, thoughtful introductions.
- Plan for a large, powerful dog that needs space and a confident owner.
Health areas for the Rhodesian Ridgeback
Based on the breed profile, the health areas most worth staying ahead of for a Rhodesian Ridgeback are Joint and mobility, Eye and vision and Skin, coat, allergy (owners often watch for elbow dysplasia, eye, skin).
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Rhodesian Ridgeback facts, quick answers
How long do Rhodesian Ridgebacks live?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks live 10-12 years on average, and plenty go beyond that. The two biggest levers on where a given dog lands are keeping it at a lean, healthy weight and staying ahead of the health issues the breed is prone to.
How big do Rhodesian Ridgebacks get?
A full-grown Rhodesian Ridgeback stands 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female) and weighs 85 pounds (male), 70 pounds (female), which puts it firmly in the large-breed range.
What kind of dog is a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a hound breed, and one of the country's more popular breeds, ranked 43 of 208. It is a large dog that typically lives around 10-12 years.
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks high-energy dogs?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are moderate in energy, so daily activity matters but they are not bouncing off the walls.
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks easy to train?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are very trainable and love having their brain worked, picking up commands quickly with positive, consistent training.
Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks shed a lot?
They are moderate shedders. A weekly brush keeps most of the loose hair off your furniture.
Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks bark a lot?
They are on the quiet side and are not prone to nuisance barking.
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good with kids?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are great with children, gentle and patient, which is a big reason families love the breed; supervise young kids around any dog.
Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks get along with other dogs?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are able to get along with other dogs, though early socialization helps and some prefer to be the only dog.
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good for first-time owners?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a forgiving choice for a first dog, thanks to their trainability, adaptability and manageable needs.
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