The short glossy coat is adapted for working in hot climates. A distinctive feature is the clearly defined ridge, which should start with two identical whorls just behind the shoulders and taper to a point between the hipbones. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is the hound group's answer to a somewhat protective dog. Not only is it a keen and versatile hunter, but it is a loyal guardian. It is good with children, especially protective of those in its family, but it is sometimes overly boisterous in play for small children.
It is strong-willed and powerful; some can become domineering. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Rhodesian. By knowing about health concerns specific to Rhodesian Ridgebacks, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs.
We will describe the most common issues seen inRhodesian Ridgebacksto give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Rhodesian Ridgebacks. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Rhodie looking and feeling her best.
And unfortunately, your Rhodesian Ridgeback is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections—the same ones that all dogs can get—such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, herage, and other factors.
Obesity can be a significant health problem in Rhodesian Ridgebacks. It is a serious disease that may causeor worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest herskin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito.
Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. One of the best things you can do for your Rhodesian is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies.
Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop.
For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch.
In dogs, rather than sneeze, allergies make their skin itchy. Commonly, the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most affected.
Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs.
The good news is that there are many treatment options available for this condition. Unfortunately, Rhodesian Ridgebacks can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful!
We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Rhodesians. The Ridgeback prefers to sleep indoors, spending its days both out in the yard and indoors. The Ridgeback is a good hiking and jogging companion. Fond of running, the Ridgeback needs physical and mental exercise daily, to prevent boredom setting in. Coat care for the dog is minimal, requiring occasional brushing to get rid of dead hair.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog, which has an average lifespan of 10 to 12 years, does not suffer from any serious health conditions. However, it may be prone to minor issues such as elbow dysplasia , canine hip dysplasia CHD , and hypothyroidism. Deafness and dermoid sinus are also occasionally seen in the breed. To identify some of these issues, a veterinarian may recommend hip, thyroid, elbow, and dermoid sinus tests for the dog.
Noted as a popular hound today for its qualities of hunting, protecting, and companionship, the Rhodesian Ridgeback dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when European Boers came to South Africa. The settlers required a dog that could tolerate extreme temperatures, a limited supply of water, and even withstand rough bushes, while functioning as a hunting and guard dog.
They eventually crossed Hottentot tribal and native hunting breeds with European breeds in order to produce a desirable dog. This new breed hunted by using scent and sight and was also a loyal protector of the family. South Africa. Sweden - Sverige. Switzerland Suisse. Switzerland Schweiz. United Kingdom. United Arab Emirates English. United States. For Dogs. For Cats. About Hill's. Media Press Releases Media Kit. Other Careers.
Pet Care Center. Rhodesian Ridgeback At a glance. Size: Weight Range : Male: lbs. Female: lbs. Height at Withers: Male: 26 in. Female: 25 in. The hallmark of this breed is the ridge on the back. Personality: The Rhodesian ridgeback has won many admirers for his innate qualities. Living With: Rhodesian ridgebacks are extremely tolerant dogs and excellent companions.
Related Pet Care Articles. The English cocker spaniel is slightly taller than long. Find more dog breeds and dog care information at Hillspet.
0コメント