Rhodesian Ridgeback: Training and behaviour
Training a Rhodesian Ridgeback works best when the goal is made easy to understand, rewarding to repeat, and safe to get wrong. Keep Rhodesian Ridgeback close to a calm handler and use reward-based cues during the first repetitions. Change one variable at a time and record what helps this individual dog succeed. Practise the same cue in one slightly harder setting only after the easy version is reliable.
What this breed clue changes in training
Rhodesian Ridgeback's training is recorded as Because of their very strong prey drive, Rhodesian Ridgebacks should always be in a safely enclosed area when off leash. Here, that matters because it changes how much reinforcement, repetition, and choice the dog may need to stay engaged.
A better way to practise
- Change one variable at a time and record what helps this individual dog succeed.
- Let the training note (Because of their very strong prey drive, Rhodesian Ridgebacks should always be in a safely enclosed area when off leash) set the reinforcement, session length, and distance from distractions.
- Practise the same cue in one slightly harder setting only after the easy version is reliable.
Escalate when
Escalate when behaviour changes suddenly or safety cannot be maintained.
References
Height: 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female)
AKC page PageMap DataObject > height
Weight: 85 pounds (male), 70 pounds (female)
AKC page PageMap DataObject > weight
Life expectancy: 10-12 years
AKC page PageMap DataObject > life_expectancy
Grooming: The Rhodesian Ridgeback does shed somewhat, but overall his grooming needs are minimal. A regular weekly brushing will help to remove loose hair and keep the coat glossy, and an occasional bath will help to keep the Ridgeback clean and looking his best. The nails should be trimmed often if not worn down naturally, as overly long nails can cause the dog…
AKC page Grooming > official section copy
Exercise: Rhodesian Ridgebacks are strong, athletic dogs who require a moderate amount of exercise, and they can adapt well to various living situations when provided with daily outings such as long walks and play sessions with their owner. They love to run, and they need physical activity to help keep them healthy and happy. The breed can also exercise mind and body…
AKC page Exercise > official section copy
Training: Because of their very strong prey drive, Rhodesian Ridgebacks should always be in a safely enclosed area when off leash. The Ridgeback is a devoted companion and needs to live indoors with his human family. They can be strong willed, independent, and sometimes domineering, and must be guided with a firm but patient hand from early puppyhood. Early…
AKC page Training > official section copy
Official breed description: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an all-purpose 'Renaissance hound' whose hallmark is the ridge, or stripe of backward-growing hair, on his back. Though the breed was made famous in its native Africa for its skill at tracking and baying, but never, ever killing, lions, today Ridgebacks are cherished family dogs whose owners must be prepared to deal with…
AKC page About the Breed > official breed description
Recommended parent-club health tests: ['Hip Evaluation', 'Elbow Evaluation']
AKC page Health > Recommended Health Tests From the National Breed Club
Official breed standard: http://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/RhodesianRidgeback.pdf
AKC page The Breed Standard > View Full Breed Standard
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