I had one he lasted 15 years , what a fantastic family guard dog , best dog you could ever wish for , loyal obedient and a great companion , broke my heart when I had to have him put down, miss him like mad .
@Djangolind I volunteer at an RSPCA centre. It's so sad to see animals being neglected and suffering. So many people are not aware that pets require just as much attention as a human, as they require routines, need exercise, health care, regular food, etc. My partner has barred me from bringing home certain animals from the outreach centre. I trust animals more than a human.
Great advice. Not a criticism at all, but most of what you said applies to a lot of dogs. Don't get a dog if you work long hours. If you're gonna leave the dog in the backyard or not, take time to properly train & work with your dod
yeah one fell into my life after being abandoned. I was truly underestimated it was a shephard mixed too. Would scale my 6 foot wooden fence. She was great and listened well but had abandonedment issues i think. So if I left she would run around looking for me once i was back she would come back. It caused issues a few times we just couldnt let her in the yard alone. She would only do it when I left but still a worry.
Absolutly. We had one, she die 2 years ago and we miss her a lot. She was the best dog we ever had. Even as we loved our Labradors, Big Swiss Sennendog too, we fell completely and utterly in love with our Ridgeback.
I lost my Ridgeback last june he was my bestfriend. Great dog. He was an amazing hiking companion. But what sold me on the breed for the future was he saved my life during a particularly nasty seizure event with zero training in that area as until 3 years ago I didn't know I had epilepsy. I am currently searching for a breeder with puppies. Hopefully I can find my next dog/friend and service dog soon.
Did you find your pup? We have 6 left in our litter now and my girl is pregnant again so will have puppies by about September this year. They are hybrid rhodesian but every bit as wonderful ❤️ send me a message of interested.
I have a 2 yr old male Ridgeback, I can’t emphasize enough how spot on this video is in every point that is made. I absolutely love my boy but it for sure has been a challenge every step of the way to help him be a great dog. The challenges are for sure worth it , but you must be prepared to put the time in!
Can you please be a bit more specific about these challenges as I am looking at adopting a 2 year old female. I am more familiar with German Shepherds. Thanks
I got so lucky with my ridgeback. We took him out of a really bad situation (pretty serious neglect). He's so loving, protective, social and loyal. Such an unbelievable dog. I appreciate him so much.
This is absolutely on point! My ridgie is 2 years old, we got her socialized early and often, along with some positive reinforcement training. She's the best dog I've ever had. It helps that she picked us, though. She fell asleep on my chest as a 6 week old puppy, then claimed us again a few weeks on. We love her so, and she's the best dog!
I know lots of city folks with no yards that have them. You just need to find spots where they can run safely. If you're savvy they are out there. This guy has two in an apartment in Chicago and he puts out some of the best videos for the pet crowd. th-cam.com/video/dTU53OiosaI/w-d-xo.html
I have a ridgeback he’s 5 , terrified of my neighbours cat and loves to play with small dogs .loves to walk for miles and miles . Rhodesian ridgeback no a ridisian like this guy keeps saying
As a ridgy owner i can say that those 3 dogs are incredible only 3 tips i have are - 1.) i dont recommend you get more than one from the same litter or with very similar ages as they can get very aggressive and rowdy while trying to establish dominance. 2.) make sure you have doors that have locks in the rooms you keep them as they can learn to open doors and windows etc. (even bolted doors and windows.) 3.) make sure you teach them to stay out of the kitchen or all your dinner and rubbish will constantly “go missing”
We've just adopted our 6th Rhodesian Ridgeback in 25 years (we have a 6 year old female as well). We've had other breeds and rescues intermixed over the years as well, but the Ridgebacks are our breed of choice. They are not for the faint of heart and you do have to be a leader with discipline (in commands, not by being physical). They are smart, strong, stubborn at times, and extremely loving and loyal. We have 16 acres now, but before we lived in the suburbs which meant a commitment to long walks and trail runs. While they are happy to surf the sofa for many hours at a time, you cannot expect them to be a lump 24/7. Ridgebacks need to run - it's in their DNA. They are amazing and beautiful creatures.
@@100spanky Moron. Ridgebacks didn't attack lions, they held them at bay until human hunters got there and despatched them. I hand reared a rabbit and one of my Ridgebacks adored her. They are not vicious unless their loved ones are threatened.
I’ve had two and I never had any difficulty with training or them being ‘ stubborn’??? They just had a genuine desire to please the master. I plan to get one more after our mountain home is ready. Blessings. Great channel. 🙏🙏🙏🕊🕊🕊
It takes a good loving and younger person to raise a RR. My son just lost his 12 y/o companion a week ago today. Lou was the love of our life. He was so easy to train, dearly loved his weekly visits to the lake and played like a child. Plus the almost daily outings to work off all that energy. I’m glad you have another version of the reasons to own a RR. He gave as much love as he received. He stole everyone’s heart and loved showing his newest tricks. There will never be another Lou!
I was thinking of getting a Rhodesien. The I got a Viszla. Her 2 best friends where Rhodasiens. They told me Viszlas are beginner dogs but Nono. They are hunting dogs but not as protective. Our was. She was protecting my, then, 3 year old daughter with her own life. You can run a marathon with these dogs and they won't get tired. Nosework (sorry I am Swiss, my English sucks), is the key, beside physical work. We enjoyed lots of mantrailling work, hiking, sled pulling, you have to be creative. She was set off leash BUT, lots of training to call her back and all.these birds in the field would be so fun to hunt. Now we have a maltese dog. Even this small bread, beside all the cutness, is a hunting dog. You need to be desciplined but not harshe against your dogs. Love❤
I grew up with Ridgebacks (in Rhodesia) and have always had at least one ever since. My present British born Rhodesian Ridgeback - Nandi is my companion dog on the farm and the best dog anyone could want for an active lifestyle
I took in a re-homed RR, best thing it ever happened to me and her. She’s no longer with me it’s been two years now and I’m ready to re home another now. Best dog ever.
We rescued a ridgeback/boxer mix that two other adopters had to return... for all the reasons you so clearly identified in this great vid. Even tho' she's not pure-bred, she has the ridge on her back and the temperament to match. 'Fence-jumper'... was the only thing written on her chart at the shelter. It took me a whole year and two different trainers to finally 'get' and put into practice what you are saying about strong, calm, confident ownership. She is my first dog and I'm 72 yrs old and she is SO strong and fast and willful that I almost gave up on her. I'm so glad I didn't... just in the last couple of months we had a breakthrough where she finally started to see me as her protector and, for lack of a better word, 'boss'. And I finally learned to relax and be confident. We do five walks a day 'cause she is that energetic as you mentioned... and I love our walks now... she's the love of my life. Luckily, I'm retired and devote a LOT of time to her, but it is all worth it. This dog may not have found a home if she hadn't been adopted by someone with time. Every word you said was 'spot on'... thanks!
As my first dog I got a Ridgeback and everything you said is true but obviously I had studied a lot. I have managed to be a great leder for my dog. From Italy🇮🇹👌
Totally agree 👍 Owning Rhodesian ridgebacks is a full time job . They are the Navy Seal of dogs . Very high prey Drive also . They are also couch potatoes and very social with other ridgebacks . They need space too burn off energy everyday also . Constant training and you need too be a outdoors type person too appreciate these dogs . I love all dogs but with ridgebacks there is never a dull moment 👍
I save dogs from the streets. One year ago I saved a Rhodesian Ridgeback from the streets, I believe she was kicked to the curb because she did not have a "ridge". This is one of the most special dogs I have ever saved. She is so special, I decided to keep her. She is super loyal and a great watch dog.
Hi, unfortunately we have discovered another reason to not get a Ridgeback. We re homed an 11 month old ridgeback called Dexter back in December 2020. He soon wormed his way into the whole families hearts like no other dog could. We have had two fantastic years of the most challenging and rewarding dog you can imagine. At the beginning of November 2022 he developed a large lump on his front left wrist which the vets said was a tumour. They said it might be aggressive and he might only live for another 6 weeks. Here we are into February 2023, Dexter has had his 3rd birthday but we know he will probably not see his 4th. We are doing all we can to prolong his life without amputation and chemotherapy because we know even that combination will only give him another 10 to 12 months as the cancer has already spread through his body on a cellular level. Now it is one day at a time, and trying to fit 10 years worth of love into less than one year. Every walk, run and play is both joyful and sad. The same situation could apply to any dog I know but be aware that a Ridgeback can break your heart every day for months if you are unlucky.
As someone who works in a doggy-daycare environment, make sure that any daycare you use is used to working with Ridgebacks and be careful in dog park environments. Other dogs sometimes think the ridge is an aggressive showing of raised spine hair, especially when 1st introduced.
I grew up with dogs, and when I went to college my parents wouldn't let me take my sweet angel Levi (a male RR who was around 8 yrs old). I decided to take a leap of faith and get my own male RR while still going to school. I guess that technically made me a first-time dog owner (independent of family dogs). That being said, it's possible to do amazing things with the breed, you just have to be willing to put in the effort. My boy, Moose, is now coming on 2 1/2 years old and is heading to Houston with me as I start my career after graduating in May this year. My dog is my life, and I spend at least 3 hours a day on walks or at the dog park with him. I find it just as much fun as he does. I'd much rather get a nice workout with him than go to a stuffy gym - plus I prefer his company to other people too lol. At this point, he has passed basic obedience, intermediate obedience, basic agility, and got his Canine Good Citizen certificate. I love to increase our bond as a team, and I can't wait to see all the amazing things we can do. Oh and don't get me wrong, he's an absolute couch potato so he doesn't mind sleeping all day while I work. However, when I get home, he knows it's game time and time to have some fun lol! I think it doesn't matter how many dogs you've had before, but it does matter the amount of effort and time you're willing to spend. It's also imperative to do your research and know what you're getting into to create the best relationship/life for both you and your dog.
So…I think my pup (adopted two months ago) is a Ridgeback/Malinois mix & tbh I had watched your Malinois videos first cause I just realized she’s likely got Ridgeback in her as well & tbh…your videos make me so stoked to have this mix! I feel so confident & genuinely excited to have what might be such a rare & amazing blend of genes! Thank you Will & team for educating us all on the nuances of breeds & their needs whether it be exercise, training, socialization or any number of needs a pup has, but I feel so lucky to have stumbled upon this pup cause she showed instant love for me at the shelter & in only two months we have become an inseparable team, partially due to the invaluable guidance from you & your team. I’m a bit obsessive with my yearning to learn to be a proper leader & that’s why I was immediately drawn to your channels. I will be getting a DNA test soon as she was a stray but she shows many traits of Malinois & Ridgeback that make me so thrilled to be blessed to have found her when I did. I think we both needed this partnership & I’m thrilled to say…CHALLENGE ACCEPTED haha thanks again Will & team for your breadth of insight across many breeds, it has made me feel equipt & truly excited to give Daisy everything she needs
I think I have a Shar pei ridge back mix . He's way more than a handful . Less than a year old the vet told me . I stay on a boat about one hundred yards from a man made island . Nothing but crabs and a few rats can survive on this island . Somebody dropped this beautiful dog off on this twenty foot by maybe a thousand foot island . It took me three days bringing water and food just to almost pet him . I saw a tennis ball washed up on the island , so I tossed it he chased it grabbed it and ran the other way . An hour later he adopted me ! Hasn't stopped licking my beard and chewing on my ears for weeks . True to the bone glad to share.
This is my 4th ridgeback and it always makes me chuckle when google says puppy’s should only get 2 25mins a day, big man over here would go mental if I only gave him that, to be very clear I do not over walk him and take very good care of him, his diet is of top tier quality, and he is very well socialised to people and dogs at 4months of age currently working on his walking and return very smart boy
A Ridgeback owner here. Can agree with everything you said. I feel like my Labrador helped train the fellow. He isn't as trained as my labro, but still listens and controlled. Love Ridgebacks alot ♥️
I have only recently started watching your RR videos and they are so accurate and entertaining! I have two large masked twaats who are 4-years-old, they are the joy of our daily routines. We trained them and socialized them early and they are the stars of the neighborhood! I will never own another breed!
I have a 6 month old Rhodesian ridgeback/boxer and BOY IS HE SMART AND LOYAL! I must admit, he does require quite a bit of time and exercise, but he is VERY LOVING AND QUITE A GUARD DOG AS WELL!
I also have a,boxer ridge back mix.She is 7 months old.She likes to think it is her idea. Will be alot of work for the next year but I can tell it will be worth it.
A client called me a month ago asking to help with her Ridgeback. He's territorial and very reactive to people coming to the door. He also bites. They've already given away a Rottweiler, who also bit people (suprise suprise) and she started by asking if I think (a person she doesn't know from a hole in the wall) if she should keep or give away the dog. She also said she's "not a big dog person". Tomorrow I'm going there... and I already have been mentally preparing all month to muster all the patience I have with these people, and not straight out the gate call them miserable human beings for treating dogs like an interchangeable commodity. Lord give me strength.
My Rango was the best dog I ever owened!! U r right very intelligent. He picked up on sighn language right away! Now got a belgium malinois n he is a land shark but also high energy n very intelligent n knows sighn language at 5months my velvet face Ruger!!
Thanks for all of these videos Will! I plan to get a Rhodesian Ridgeback, but I always like a 2nd, 3rd, 4th opinion in all areas to make sure I can provide the right environment for them.
I have two 5 yr old ridgebacks that are siblings. I want to thank you for that brutally honest take on these dog's traits. They do require a strong leader for an owner and they respect that strength with obedience. If you can get past the first 15 months successfully they are the best dogs you'll ever own. Mine are trained to sit and wait when I open the back door and only after they both sit and are calm do they get to come in.
I am training a Ridgeback mix to be my service dog. She knows when my vitals change good or bad. She is great at it too. I use a wheelchair my Ridgeback is learning many things to help me get around. She loves Wal-Mart and Pet Supply stores. She will pull me straight to her brand of dogfood and then we can shop with ease where ever. I usually get a toy for my PollyLollie. I would not trade her for any breed. If something happens to Polly my next Service Dog WILL BE a RIDGEBACK.
I have a rescue that was listed as a Doberman mix, & I believe it's Ridgeback ! When He gets excited the hair stands up from his neck down his spine ! Absolutely the best dog I ever owned ! My sons made Him a bed beside mine ! I have PTSD & fight in My sleep sometimes ! The 1st night I had one & My wife said He jumped on the bed, lay His head on My chest, & I calmed down ! He has slept with Me since ! Wish I knew how to post his picture !
We rescued a Ridgie who was labeled as a Shepherd mix...boy were we unprepared! But she is our sweet girl and she KNOWS when Momma here is giving her the stink-eye...I think she's mixed with Boxer (she punches and boxes just like a Boxer) and her hindquarters are very boxer-like, I will be getting a DNA test done for her soon. We rescued her at 2 years old and she had NEVER been socialized so, even 2+ years later, we've been unsuccessful at teaching her to play nice at the doggie park...I will be watching your channel for ideas! I would LOVE to add another dog to our family! We are full-time RVers who love to hike and travel and she is the best companion ever!
Lost my 1st Ridgeback to cancer before his 3rd birthday...15yrs ago...he was my soulmate...got him in my 50' s.....he was a James bond of the dog world...took me along time before I got my second...luckily I found Henry...another amazing gentleman...3/4 Ridgeback and 1/4 bloodhound...never has a lead...always walks by my side...we live in an English village...lots of dogs...never any trouble...he turns the other cheek....l am in my 60' a now...and arthritis is taking its toll on me but l have know the best...amazing breed...Henry is 11yrs and still gets comments of admiration most days...🥰🌸
Best dog I ever had never trained her but I think she understands what I'm telling her I live in Arizona I take her to the mountain by the house and she loves that one time she saw some wild pig and it was on I went home didn't think I would see her again but 2 hour later she came home with no scratches or jumping cactus on her love her
I have a RR/Boxer/Pitbull mix as my first dog, and pet that's required actual responsibility, and while it's been really hard, I've learned as much as he has. he's so much smarter than I thought dogs could be and he's always tried his hardest to make me happy to the point I've hardly had to use treats for training because he desperately wants to learn so he can feel confident, as he is also very independent but relies on me when he gets overwhelmed or scared. I broke through all of these guidelines but with a lot of patience and a strong emotional connection as I've always felt spiritually close to dogs, we always came out of it a better dog and a better master. If you're just going to see this breed as "a dog" or a tool, you definitely need to obey the guidelines, but it's always going to be different when there's a strong friendship between man and dog.
i have 7 month rr puppy. shes so smart, learned basic commands at 8 week old. She knows shes not allowed to go in before me, she waits i take my coat/shoes off and give her permission to step in. She is so loving and the most lazy dog i have ever seen. Not a morning dog at all 😂 everytime i sit down to knit she just has to lay on top of me.
I couldn't agree more with the above mentioned. There are certain individuals who have acquired the Rhodies (RRBs) for all the wrong reasons and eventually ended up with very disastrous consequences. I am die-hard RRB person since age seven (7-yrs), and I have just secured three young Rhodies from a very reputable breeder.
Had these dogs since I was a little girl. I find their stubbornness and independence comes to a head around 18 months -2 years. You really have to persist and train. You have to be more stubborn. Totally worth it if you put the time and effort in. Best dogs to have.
I have been a dog person all of my life and have always had rescue dogs. Penny (our RRB) adopted us in October 2012 and quickly took a huge part of our hearts. All RRB owners know how intelligent and independant they are - I have often said that their personality is more human than canine. In September 2015 I had an accident where I severely damaged my hand, this put me into a depression and the only one who could reach me and drag me back was Penny - this made our connection even stronger and more special. On 13 December, 4 weeks ago, whilst out for our morning walk Penny collapsed and died, as far as we know she was 11. I would not have missed those 8 years with Penny, but the heartbreak when she died was and still is incomperable. As a dog person, I now have a new 4 legged furry - no dog could replace Penny so I decided not to try and went for the complete opposite, a male greyhound called Alfie - he is affectionate, great fun, great company and a great personality, so why is my heart breaking all over again as I write this about my princess? This is the one huge problem with being owned by a Ridgeback.
So sorry to hear about your loss. Sadly no dog can ever be replaced but we are lucky enough to bring new ones int our home. Hoping training continues to go well with Alfie!
I had a ridgeback as a kid. Was the first dog that was "mine". Greatest dog I ever had. I'd ride my skateboard with him instead of walking, he'd give me an inquisitive look like you ready? He would wait until I'd tell him "lets go." I'd just hold on to the leash and would be skitching off him like a car. All I would have to do is say "let's go home" and he would turn around and run us home. We both had so much fun. I never trained him but he somehow knew what I wanted and what I was saying. Smartest dog I've ever had, we would put him in his cage when we left cause my parents "didn't want him to destroy the house" but he figured out how to undo the locks so he could walk around and guard the house when we weren't there. We had chickens in the back yard and he would sometimes chase them but never go after them/hurt them, he'd just play chase with them. He slept in my room and if my parents came in to wake me up for school he'd sit up & growl until he smelled who it was or saw when the light came on and stopped when he knew who it was & wasn't a threat, incredibly protective & cautious. My dad didnt like it at first but realized after a couple weeks he's just making sure it's not a stranger there to hurt me. Best guard dog. If he was in the back yard when I got off the school bus, he'd hear it stop and jump the chain link fence, run down the street to me & walk me home. It's been almost 20 years and I miss that dog more than anything, he was my best friend, only dog that truly felt like a protector & companion. Rhodesians are the greatest breed to me, my parents were AKC judges so been around almost every breed. Non come close to a rhodesian ridgeback. Can't wait to get a yard again and get another. Man I miss him, became an akc champion too.
My first dog was a Rhodesian Ridgeback, who was a rescue. She had already had a good level of training, but we weren't told her commands. I ended up doing research and training her myself. She was a quick learner, and we got to the point we learned to communicate rather quickly. However, the one thing she was not trained in, was proper leash manners. And that took a lot longer, a month of daily practice in the back yard, then a month of daily practice in the backyard and on walks, then four months just on walks. It took six months total of consistent work, to get her to the point where she would listen to not only me, but other family members on walks as well. But I did it, and the most frustrating part was teaching my dad and he never really got it. He still has some no scientific understandings, when it comes to interacting with dogs. Like you need to be the Alpha with your dog, instead of just a consistent firm and not mean parent like figure. I actually ended up training both of our dogs now, our second one was a one year old Anatolian Shepherd Golden Lab mix. She was also a rescue, and I love working breeds so much now. But gosh, my family is exasperated that they listen to be best, even though I'm the only one that constantly trained and worked with them.
My 10yr old is my 2nd Ridgeback. Best dogs I have ever had. Will ALWAYS have a ridgeback as my companion animal. I am so in love with them. My husband is a Germain Short Hair guy so 2 high energy hunters, but man what LOVE.
I’ve got a boxer ridgeback. Blessed to have her. She’s AWESOME. stubborn at times but so smart and responsive. She quickly picks up on new things and makes her own way. Incredibly sweet too and affectionate. Blessed to have her man…
I am too old am now non athletic for a Rhodesian Ridgeback . My sister owns one . I love that dog and the dog loves me but RRs are a lot of work . It is debatable but I do think Ridgebacks are the most beautiful dogs of all
I have a ridgeback-boxer mix since he was a puppy a few years ago, and these videos explain so much about why he does what he does. Initially, he looked like a boxer but as he got bigger and bigger - and something funny developed along his spine - I finally did the DNA test and found out he had this much stronger ridgeback lineage. The info about puppy craziness is SO TRUE - Puddles caused so much chaos during those first two years, it drove me a bit mad! (He swallowed a five-inch sewing needle WHOLE with the thread still on it, and five thousand dollars later was back to looking for more stuff to chew on...). Thankfully, he gained a female companion shortly after that (not a ridgeback, she's a smaller pointer-terrier mix but much crazier than he is! She's definitely the alpha in their relationship.). Despite all of the high energy and extreme protectiveness, he's been super wonderful. Wouldn't trade him - or his super adorable puppy-dog eyes, which have gotten him off the hook many, many times - for the world!
We had one for 2 y ago he died 12y old, we loved her so much... but as he says in video we didn't train her well so she was independent and many times out of control because of cats or cyclists.... But next time if I have dog I want the same race and spend more time with him to train ❤️ learn him more discipline
Rip Oscar . He was my best friend and a ridgeback. I can’t even tell folks about his character. He was so awesome. Way strong. And intelligent too. Able to balance that out .
Just put my Rhodesian-Thai ridgeback down on Christmas Eve it almost killed me she was my soulmate. I got a phu quoc ridgeback she’s something else lol
Subscribed. Great video, thank you. I have a probably not unique but interesting dog. Her mom is a registered Blue Healer (Australian Cattle Dog) and her dad is a registered Rhodesian Ridgeback. She is about as good at herding anything as I could ever imagine. When I got her at 15 weeks she already had experience herding cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. She was acquainted with chickens and Guinea Fowl, which I needed. She came with a goat so she’d have a 24 hour exercise and practice partner. I have both her and the goat trained to respond to hand signals in the field. If just hold up one finger she will sit there twitching just waiting for me to send her on a task. She and my other dog both respond to 4 languages, plus sign language, whistling and such. I agree with everything you said about the extreme energy level and need for actually 24 hour outlets for their puppy energy to offgas. I built her and the goat an obstacle course and they have constant access to about 5 acres. She is still young at about 6 months. I’ll be getting a herd of sheep next week which is why I needed her. Yes, if you are not an advanced dog person and have a lot of time (all day outside on a ranch) person who knows how to establish good behavior and create fun distractions early then do not get a ridgeback. I totally agree with every word in this video. I want to breed her back with a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback and try to make a new type of dog I’ll call the Arizona Cattle Dog.
i have one and he is mixed with a queensland heeler and he is very protective and VERY strong but i put him through the highest training for reactive dogs
#1 is hands down the best point. For example, last year my dog suddenly decided he didn't enjoy walks anymore. I don't know why or what changed, but he would act scared or simply done and drag me back home after only a couple minutes, annoying me greatly as I need to walk to think well. This year, I wasn't having that anymore because we both need the exercise, and he learned over the course of 2 weeks that I am more determined and stubborn than he is, and when I say it's time for walkies, IT'S TIME FOR WALKIES. I took my 75lb dog and picked him up and walked with him. I got a harness so he can't slip out, meaning his butt gets dragged if he tries to sit. We no longer have issues and he's back to being excited for walks. It took patience, and various kinds of strength that came from love, and you need to be that kind of person (which you can learn to be) to have a dog like this and live a good life.
Absolutely none of this scares me😄. I love highly energetic intelligent animals. My pup now (mind you will be ten this year) is very trained and well behaved. He's a german shepherd, border collie mix. Strong, energetic and very intelligent. He knows over 30 commands/tricks. I can't wait to one day get my dream pup.😍
The ridgeback is one of my favourite dogs, pipped at the post by my weimaraner. Hands happily full with this one, so definitely the ridgeback would have been a step too far and would have been a really bad decision for the dog. Great believer in it's not the dog, it's the owner!
you surprised me.,..good show thanks..I have these dogs long time...they are amazing ...I'm African and I think that helps ...we both hard headed and love nature ....
( Very much appreciate your wise and sound advice here. IMHO, the owner described below, while loving her Ridgeback, is not up to the task of her dog's will. The owner doesn't have the discipline, doesn't take the dog on walks at all while believing that roaming around in the yard is fine enough, is too timid and has little boundaries and skillset for such. She makes every excuse for her dog. Scary. I truly wonder if the dog is gonna have a full life or not. ) Word of Caution: My neighbor in her 70's got a Ridgeback who is quite the patrolling watchdog, pretty intelligent, and quite affectionate once she gets to know you. BUT, and this goes for any prospective dog owner in all probability, even though you might purchase a dog that was previously "trained", it doesn't mean squat if they don't follow commands consistently. And this particular Ridgeback routinely doesn't follow every command by her owner. The dog does have an independent spirit, which is only charming until...she ran out on a busy road when the front gate was open while not minding her owner to "Come". Fortunately, she wasn't hit by a car, she's fine. The owner thinks her dog is the bee's knees. Yes, but if she doesn't take greater responsibility for further TRAINING, then she is simply putting the dog at risk through her absent-mindedness. Moral of the Story: Be sober-minded and responsible when welcoming a dog into one's life.
Ours is a choco lab/Rhoddie mix. We walk her twice a day and take her to doggie day camp. She needs a job and “running the camp” is her job. She is super smart, very protective of our home and of all 4 of us. She can definitely jump our 6 foot fence but luckily we give her lots of attention, play and love.
We didn’t always have a lot of room for our dog, she was a Rhodesian ridgeback, but we still made sure she had her exercise and got her outside time! Definitely owning a fenced in area will help, but even if you don’t it’s possible to take good care of em with a little more work 😅
I have a ridgeback-lab mix. He actually was my first dog! We didn’t know much about ridgebacks and how they behave but he fitted so nicely into our family because we always loved to be active so he was just perfect! He is a bit crazy and energetic but that’s what we love about him. 😊
Had one years ago and unless you own a huge and I mean huge piece of land then you're looking at a 2 hour walk a day minimum with smaller walks throughout the day. My dog was like a nuclear reactor powered ginger missile that would instantly play up if she couldn't get the energy out. Also they have a weird ability to absorb all the heat from a fireplace
I picked up 2 Rhodesian ridgeback dashund mix puppies in road & my jack russel/beagle mix is training the prominent ridgeback puppy.. 1 seems more ridgeback & other dashund.. the 1 wit more dashund has more issues training. I tend to be more loving so I try to stay consistent but watching your video is helping me more.
I can attest now having my ridge back for four months and he is now six months old that if you do not correct them every single time you give a command with a good choke chain correction, e-collar, or other strong device, they will mow you down and figure out how to defy you. They are HIGHLY INTELLIGENT. You must learn to figure them out with what treats they like and also praise them after they do good, even on the choke chain or e-collar. Once they have done what you ask them to (or corrected them to do) then some off leash training with “come”, “sit”, “down”, and “stay” give simple praise & reward of favorite treat - but DONT show the treat: they get very smart at figuring out if you have anything in your hand or not, and then they will defy you. I HIGHLY recommend a trainer to help with 1st time obedience and consistency for at least 5 to 10 home training sessions. Believe me - once you see one counter-surfing and picking up a knife or getting into chemicals, your dinner, or other things, you will want to know how to stop that behavior immediately.
Good day. My situation is as follows, I rescue local dogs, however they have mostly been small. My recent rescue is a Rhodesian Ridgeback that was running loose in a local market. I am trying to find the right home for her for all five reasons you mentioned and the fact that I have 14 small rescues. I will not give her to just anyone. She needs a family with an older child, she has very quickly attached herself to my 14 year old granddaughter. She is very young. If you have a list of people that adopt, please help. Thank you.
I had a Ridgeback for 14 years. Maggie was awesome. She liked to play a hiding game and would hide in my wood line, no doubt amused by my calling for her. A salesman once just appeared out of nowhere. I told him to stand still until I located Maggie. She was also highly protective of my wife and became enraged if she could not keep a constant eye on her. The salesman did not listen. My wife came out the front door, when the salesman walked toward her he inadvertently came between my wife and my dogs line of sight. Maggie came out of the woods like a bullet and I had to tackle her to keep her from eating the salesman. He left quickly and never returned. It is a great memory of that wonderful dog. When I worked late or traveled, I never had to worry about the wife’s safety.
The best and last dog I ever had the privilege of owning I just can't replace him he was the funniest smartest most Naughtiest dog I've ever owned But loyal and a gentle giant My daughter had cancer and he sat with her through it all he knew she wasn't well and he looked after her
I am a rather shy and timid and small woman and my Ridgeback was my first dog, actually a friend of mine that trained dogs recommended the breed after questioning me what I expect from my dog (and knowing me). I honestly did not know the breed existed until then. But I made sure to find out as much as possible beforehand and I could not possibly have chosen any better suited dog for me. We clicked immediately (we were actually to take a look at the 6-weeks old litter the breeder had and went home with one of the 8-weeks old as she practically had chosen me instead of the other way around). Never had any problems with training or obedience after realizing (very quickly) she would learn very quickly when I made it fun and have the patience of a saint when she tried to outsmart me. The puppy and adolescent phase (they were not kidding they mature as 3 years old!) was sometimes exhausting. Still I can't think of a better breed but... I too always tell people to think it over properly - it is a big dog with a mind of their own and quite a personality that needs a consequent, calm hand and a lot of exercise and that will be a puppy for 3 years - if you are not up to it please leave it be for yours and the dogs sake.
We had to rehome pur Ridgeback last week, overstimulation for this highly sensitive breed was the reason. We are heartbroken. Not all ridgebacks are suitable for in cities. We are so glad we found a place for him at a farm. We had him 2,5 years. I miss him dearly.
Is there a dog for a small house we have a small yard and thats it to similar traits to this breed any suggestions??! Intelligent and a guardian dog for tropical conditions
I got lucky with my Ridgebacks. We realised we never had to train them. Never needed a leash for walks. Even when there were other dogs in the area. We just understood each other.
We gonna get a Ridgeback! We rlly love the breed! Its our 2nd dog. We have a big garden and a good place where he can load his energy. Where gonna get hit on puppycursus tho!
I had one he lasted 15 years , what a fantastic family guard dog , best dog you could ever wish for , loyal obedient and a great companion , broke my heart when I had to have him put down, miss him like mad .
how did you know when it was time?
@@hidefiascohe was probably suffering and the vet advised
Best dog I ever had. Energetic, stubborn, extremely intelligent, he learnt to scale mesh fences and go for his own walk. Excellent guard dog too.
Why people buy one and then regret getting one lol they can’t handle it
@Djangolind I volunteer at an RSPCA centre. It's so sad to see animals being neglected and suffering. So many people are not aware that pets require just as much attention as a human, as they require routines, need exercise, health care, regular food, etc.
My partner has barred me from bringing home certain animals from the outreach centre.
I trust animals more than a human.
Great advice. Not a criticism at all, but most of what you said applies to a lot of dogs. Don't get a dog if you work long hours. If you're gonna leave the dog in the backyard or not, take time to properly train & work with your dod
yeah one fell into my life after being abandoned. I was truly underestimated it was a shephard mixed too. Would scale my 6 foot wooden fence. She was great and listened well but had abandonedment issues i think. So if I left she would run around looking for me once i was back she would come back. It caused issues a few times we just couldnt let her in the yard alone. She would only do it when I left but still a worry.
Absolutly. We had one, she die 2 years ago and we miss her a lot. She was the best dog we ever had. Even as we loved our Labradors, Big Swiss Sennendog too, we fell completely and utterly in love with our Ridgeback.
I lost my Ridgeback last june he was my bestfriend. Great dog. He was an amazing hiking companion. But what sold me on the breed for the future was he saved my life during a particularly nasty seizure event with zero training in that area as until 3 years ago I didn't know I had epilepsy. I am currently searching for a breeder with puppies. Hopefully I can find my next dog/friend and service dog soon.
Did you find your pup? We have 6 left in our litter now and my girl is pregnant again so will have puppies by about September this year. They are hybrid rhodesian but every bit as wonderful ❤️ send me a message of interested.
Did he pass away?
Ketogenic diet, high fat to fuel the brain and lessen the epileptic triggers.
same my childhood dog died in june and she was the sweetest dog ever
I have a 2 yr old male Ridgeback, I can’t emphasize enough how spot on this video is in every point that is made. I absolutely love my boy but it for sure has been a challenge every step of the way to help him be a great dog. The challenges are for sure worth it , but you must be prepared to put the time in!
Can you please be a bit more specific about these challenges as I am looking at adopting a 2 year old female. I am more familiar with German Shepherds. Thanks
I got so lucky with my ridgeback. We took him out of a really bad situation (pretty serious neglect). He's so loving, protective, social and loyal. Such an unbelievable dog. I appreciate him so much.
💙
This is absolutely on point! My ridgie is 2 years old, we got her socialized early and often, along with some positive reinforcement training. She's the best dog I've ever had.
It helps that she picked us, though. She fell asleep on my chest as a 6 week old puppy, then claimed us again a few weeks on. We love her so, and she's the best dog!
Have two and best dogs ever. Very strong will but extremely loyal. Must have large property.
I know lots of city folks with no yards that have them. You just need to find spots where they can run safely. If you're savvy they are out there.
This guy has two in an apartment in Chicago and he puts out some of the best videos for the pet crowd.
th-cam.com/video/dTU53OiosaI/w-d-xo.html
Yeah they are very loyal.
Darn it. I found this video 12 yrs too late. My boy can be my leader anyday.
Completely agree
@@Janeway1269 agreed. Alot of cities have decent sized dog parks so no issues there
As a rhodesian ridgeback owner I 100% Agree with this video. What an amazing breed it can be with the right owners.
I have a ridgeback and he is beautiful and well behaved
I have a ridgeback he’s 5 , terrified of my neighbours cat and loves to play with small dogs .loves to walk for miles and miles . Rhodesian ridgeback no a ridisian like this guy keeps saying
Spot on!
BEST DOG EVER
As a ridgy owner i can say that those 3 dogs are incredible only 3 tips i have are -
1.) i dont recommend you get more than one from the same litter or with very similar ages as they can get very aggressive and rowdy while trying to establish dominance.
2.) make sure you have doors that have locks in the rooms you keep them as they can learn to open doors and windows etc. (even bolted doors and windows.)
3.) make sure you teach them to stay out of the kitchen or all your dinner and rubbish will constantly “go missing”
We've just adopted our 6th Rhodesian Ridgeback in 25 years (we have a 6 year old female as well). We've had other breeds and rescues intermixed over the years as well, but the Ridgebacks are our breed of choice. They are not for the faint of heart and you do have to be a leader with discipline (in commands, not by being physical). They are smart, strong, stubborn at times, and extremely loving and loyal. We have 16 acres now, but before we lived in the suburbs which meant a commitment to long walks and trail runs. While they are happy to surf the sofa for many hours at a time, you cannot expect them to be a lump 24/7. Ridgebacks need to run - it's in their DNA. They are amazing and beautiful creatures.
4 RRs since 2001 (#4 is still with us.) Agree! But they really are the best.
if you have 16 acres why dont you get them a couple of lions to hunt. That would make for some great stories if you survive... go on do it
@@100spanky Moron. Ridgebacks didn't attack lions, they held them at bay until human hunters got there and despatched them. I hand reared a rabbit and one of my Ridgebacks adored her. They are not vicious unless their loved ones are threatened.
@@100spankythey don’t hunt lions they bay them. No dog could take on a lion.
@@kippyc98what makes them the best just curious?
I’ve had two and I never had any difficulty with training or them being ‘ stubborn’??? They just had a genuine desire to please the master. I plan to get one more after our mountain home is ready. Blessings. Great channel. 🙏🙏🙏🕊🕊🕊
It takes a good loving and younger person to raise a RR. My son just lost his 12 y/o companion a week ago today. Lou was the love of our life. He was so easy to train, dearly loved his weekly visits to the lake and played like a child. Plus the almost daily outings to work off all that energy. I’m glad you have another version of the reasons to own a RR. He gave as much love as he received. He stole everyone’s heart and loved showing his newest tricks. There will never be another Lou!
I was thinking of getting a Rhodesien. The I got a Viszla. Her 2 best friends where Rhodasiens. They told me Viszlas are beginner dogs but Nono. They are hunting dogs but not as protective. Our was. She was protecting my, then, 3 year old daughter with her own life. You can run a marathon with these dogs and they won't get tired. Nosework (sorry I am Swiss, my English sucks), is the key, beside physical work. We enjoyed lots of mantrailling work, hiking, sled pulling, you have to be creative. She was set off leash BUT, lots of training to call her back and all.these birds in the field would be so fun to hunt. Now we have a maltese dog. Even this small bread, beside all the cutness, is a hunting dog. You need to be desciplined but not harshe against your dogs. Love❤
I grew up with Ridgebacks (in Rhodesia) and have always had at least one ever since. My present British born Rhodesian Ridgeback - Nandi is my companion dog on the farm and the best dog anyone could want for an active lifestyle
They sound like farm dogs. That's good because they need exercise.
I've fostered 15 Rhodesian ridgebacks and they are extremely smart and stubborn but also amazing companions
I took in a re-homed RR, best thing it ever happened to me and her. She’s no longer with me it’s been two years now and I’m ready to re home another now. Best dog ever.
We rescued a ridgeback/boxer mix that two other adopters had to return... for all the reasons you so clearly identified in this great vid. Even tho' she's not pure-bred, she has the ridge on her back and the temperament to match. 'Fence-jumper'... was the only thing written on her chart at the shelter. It took me a whole year and two different trainers to finally 'get' and put into practice what you are saying about strong, calm, confident ownership. She is my first dog and I'm 72 yrs old and she is SO strong and fast and willful that I almost gave up on her. I'm so glad I didn't... just in the last couple of months we had a breakthrough where she finally started to see me as her protector and, for lack of a better word, 'boss'. And I finally learned to relax and be confident. We do five walks a day 'cause she is that energetic as you mentioned... and I love our walks now... she's the love of my life. Luckily, I'm retired and devote a LOT of time to her, but it is all worth it. This dog may not have found a home if she hadn't been adopted by someone with time. Every word you said was 'spot on'... thanks!
As my first dog I got a Ridgeback and everything you said is true but obviously I had studied a lot. I have managed to be a great leder for my dog. From Italy🇮🇹👌
Totally agree 👍 Owning Rhodesian ridgebacks is a full time job . They are the Navy Seal of dogs . Very high prey Drive also . They are also couch potatoes and very social with other ridgebacks . They need space too burn off energy everyday also . Constant training and you need too be a outdoors type person too appreciate these dogs . I love all dogs but with ridgebacks there is never a dull moment 👍
I save dogs from the streets. One year ago I saved a Rhodesian Ridgeback from the streets, I believe she was kicked to the curb because she did not have a "ridge". This is one of the most special dogs I have ever saved. She is so special, I decided to keep her. She is super loyal and a great watch dog.
Hi, unfortunately we have discovered another reason to not get a Ridgeback. We re homed an 11 month old ridgeback called Dexter back in December 2020. He soon wormed his way into the whole families hearts like no other dog could. We have had two fantastic years of the most challenging and rewarding dog you can imagine. At the beginning of November 2022 he developed a large lump on his front left wrist which the vets said was a tumour. They said it might be aggressive and he might only live for another 6 weeks. Here we are into February 2023, Dexter has had his 3rd birthday but we know he will probably not see his 4th. We are doing all we can to prolong his life without amputation and chemotherapy because we know even that combination will only give him another 10 to 12 months as the cancer has already spread through his body on a cellular level. Now it is one day at a time, and trying to fit 10 years worth of love into less than one year. Every walk, run and play is both joyful and sad. The same situation could apply to any dog I know but be aware that a Ridgeback can break your heart every day for months if you are unlucky.
I had one who stayed with me n my parents for 10+years. Left us in 2016 aug which made us not breeding another forever. Still miss him heaps. 😢
Lost my 9 days ago was together almost 12 years was my ES dog still hurting
As someone who works in a doggy-daycare environment, make sure that any daycare you use is used to working with Ridgebacks and be careful in dog park environments. Other dogs sometimes think the ridge is an aggressive showing of raised spine hair, especially when 1st introduced.
I grew up with dogs, and when I went to college my parents wouldn't let me take my sweet angel Levi (a male RR who was around 8 yrs old). I decided to take a leap of faith and get my own male RR while still going to school. I guess that technically made me a first-time dog owner (independent of family dogs). That being said, it's possible to do amazing things with the breed, you just have to be willing to put in the effort. My boy, Moose, is now coming on 2 1/2 years old and is heading to Houston with me as I start my career after graduating in May this year. My dog is my life, and I spend at least 3 hours a day on walks or at the dog park with him. I find it just as much fun as he does. I'd much rather get a nice workout with him than go to a stuffy gym - plus I prefer his company to other people too lol. At this point, he has passed basic obedience, intermediate obedience, basic agility, and got his Canine Good Citizen certificate. I love to increase our bond as a team, and I can't wait to see all the amazing things we can do. Oh and don't get me wrong, he's an absolute couch potato so he doesn't mind sleeping all day while I work. However, when I get home, he knows it's game time and time to have some fun lol! I think it doesn't matter how many dogs you've had before, but it does matter the amount of effort and time you're willing to spend. It's also imperative to do your research and know what you're getting into to create the best relationship/life for both you and your dog.
So…I think my pup (adopted two months ago) is a Ridgeback/Malinois mix & tbh I had watched your Malinois videos first cause I just realized she’s likely got Ridgeback in her as well & tbh…your videos make me so stoked to have this mix! I feel so confident & genuinely excited to have what might be such a rare & amazing blend of genes! Thank you Will & team for educating us all on the nuances of breeds & their needs whether it be exercise, training, socialization or any number of needs a pup has, but I feel so lucky to have stumbled upon this pup cause she showed instant love for me at the shelter & in only two months we have become an inseparable team, partially due to the invaluable guidance from you & your team. I’m a bit obsessive with my yearning to learn to be a proper leader & that’s why I was immediately drawn to your channels. I will be getting a DNA test soon as she was a stray but she shows many traits of Malinois & Ridgeback that make me so thrilled to be blessed to have found her when I did. I think we both needed this partnership & I’m thrilled to say…CHALLENGE ACCEPTED haha thanks again Will & team for your breadth of insight across many breeds, it has made me feel equipt & truly excited to give Daisy everything she needs
Sounds like a neat puppy!!
I think I have a Shar pei ridge back mix . He's way more than a handful . Less than a year old the vet told me . I stay on a boat about one hundred yards from a man made island . Nothing but crabs and a few rats can survive on this island . Somebody dropped this beautiful dog off on this twenty foot by maybe a thousand foot island . It took me three days bringing water and food just to almost pet him . I saw a tennis ball washed up on the island , so I tossed it he chased it grabbed it and ran the other way . An hour later he adopted me ! Hasn't stopped licking my beard and chewing on my ears for weeks . True to the bone glad to share.
This is my 4th ridgeback and it always makes me chuckle when google says puppy’s should only get 2 25mins a day, big man over here would go mental if I only gave him that, to be very clear I do not over walk him and take very good care of him, his diet is of top tier quality, and he is very well socialised to people and dogs at 4months of age currently working on his walking and return very smart boy
A Ridgeback owner here. Can agree with everything you said. I feel like my Labrador helped train the fellow. He isn't as trained as my labro, but still listens and controlled. Love Ridgebacks alot ♥️
I have only recently started watching your RR videos and they are so accurate and entertaining! I have two large masked twaats who are 4-years-old, they are the joy of our daily routines. We trained them and socialized them early and they are the stars of the neighborhood! I will never own another breed!
I have a 6 month old Rhodesian ridgeback/boxer and BOY IS HE SMART AND LOYAL! I must admit, he does require quite a bit of time and exercise, but he is VERY LOVING AND QUITE A GUARD DOG AS WELL!
I have a Fila/Pit, she's very loyal and a spitfire to boot,very Protective and Strong as a Horse, which I can Appreciate
I also have a,boxer ridge back mix.She is 7 months old.She likes to think it is her idea. Will be alot of work for the next year but I can tell it will be worth it.
A client called me a month ago asking to help with her Ridgeback. He's territorial and very reactive to people coming to the door. He also bites. They've already given away a Rottweiler, who also bit people (suprise suprise) and she started by asking if I think (a person she doesn't know from a hole in the wall) if she should keep or give away the dog. She also said she's "not a big dog person". Tomorrow I'm going there... and I already have been mentally preparing all month to muster all the patience I have with these people, and not straight out the gate call them miserable human beings for treating dogs like an interchangeable commodity. Lord give me strength.
Great dog. I loved my girl. She was a total gem.
My Rango was the best dog I ever owened!! U r right very intelligent. He picked up on sighn language right away! Now got a belgium malinois n he is a land shark but also high energy n very intelligent n knows sighn language at 5months my velvet face Ruger!!
Thanks for all of these videos Will! I plan to get a Rhodesian Ridgeback, but I always like a 2nd, 3rd, 4th opinion in all areas to make sure I can provide the right environment for them.
I have two 5 yr old ridgebacks that are siblings. I want to thank you for that brutally honest take on these dog's traits. They do require a strong leader for an owner and they respect that strength with obedience. If you can get past the first 15 months successfully they are the best dogs you'll ever own. Mine are trained to sit and wait when I open the back door and only after they both sit and are calm do they get to come in.
My stepmom gave me my Ridgie and she has his twin sister, they’re less than a year old and they’re like little furry tornadoes 😂
Our little Anne came at a time when we had just lost out beagle and I was laid up with a pretty serious rib injury she has been a good dog
Boy it has been a steep learning curve for me. Still working on my leadership skills.
I am training a Ridgeback mix to be my service dog. She knows when my vitals change good or bad. She is great at it too. I use a wheelchair my Ridgeback is learning many things to help me get around. She loves Wal-Mart and Pet Supply stores. She will pull me straight to her brand of dogfood and then we can shop with ease where ever. I usually get a toy for my PollyLollie. I would not trade her for any breed. If something happens to Polly my next Service Dog WILL BE a RIDGEBACK.
I have a rescue that was listed as a Doberman mix, & I believe it's Ridgeback ! When He gets excited the hair stands up from his neck down his spine ! Absolutely the best dog I ever owned ! My sons made Him a bed beside mine ! I have PTSD & fight in My sleep sometimes ! The 1st night I had one & My wife said He jumped on the bed, lay His head on My chest, & I calmed down ! He has slept with Me since ! Wish I knew how to post his picture !
This is an awesome story, I’m glad he’s been able to help you out so much and that you’ve been able to do the same for him :)
We rescued a Ridgie who was labeled as a Shepherd mix...boy were we unprepared! But she is our sweet girl and she KNOWS when Momma here is giving her the stink-eye...I think she's mixed with Boxer (she punches and boxes just like a Boxer) and her hindquarters are very boxer-like, I will be getting a DNA test done for her soon. We rescued her at 2 years old and she had NEVER been socialized so, even 2+ years later, we've been unsuccessful at teaching her to play nice at the doggie park...I will be watching your channel for ideas! I would LOVE to add another dog to our family! We are full-time RVers who love to hike and travel and she is the best companion ever!
Lost my 1st Ridgeback to cancer before his 3rd birthday...15yrs ago...he was my soulmate...got him in my 50' s.....he was a James bond of the dog world...took me along time before I got my second...luckily I found Henry...another amazing gentleman...3/4 Ridgeback and 1/4 bloodhound...never has a lead...always walks by my side...we live in an English village...lots of dogs...never any trouble...he turns the other cheek....l am in my 60' a now...and arthritis is taking its toll on me but l have know the best...amazing breed...Henry is 11yrs and still gets comments of admiration most days...🥰🌸
I've got one and they are the sweetest
Lol I got one cutest and handsome dog but very strong and always teething. Puppy
Riffelrug. Cornelis van Rooijen. Jager.
I’ve had my ridgeback for 3 years and as a kid me and my ridgeback are very energetic and an awesome duo! Love her 🥰
Best dog I ever had never trained her but I think she understands what I'm telling her I live in Arizona I take her to the mountain by the house and she loves that one time she saw some wild pig and it was on I went home didn't think I would see her again but 2 hour later she came home with no scratches or jumping cactus on her love her
I have a RR/Boxer/Pitbull mix as my first dog, and pet that's required actual responsibility, and while it's been really hard, I've learned as much as he has. he's so much smarter than I thought dogs could be and he's always tried his hardest to make me happy to the point I've hardly had to use treats for training because he desperately wants to learn so he can feel confident, as he is also very independent but relies on me when he gets overwhelmed or scared. I broke through all of these guidelines but with a lot of patience and a strong emotional connection as I've always felt spiritually close to dogs, we always came out of it a better dog and a better master. If you're just going to see this breed as "a dog" or a tool, you definitely need to obey the guidelines, but it's always going to be different when there's a strong friendship between man and dog.
Mate, solid presentation skills. Absolute natural in front of the camera. Solid effort!
Ridgeback is the best dog for me,very strong but a gentle giant and extremely loyal dog i ever had and accompanied my family for 13yrs..rip roxy
i have 7 month rr puppy. shes so smart, learned basic commands at 8 week old. She knows shes not allowed to go in before me, she waits i take my coat/shoes off and give her permission to step in. She is so loving and the most lazy dog i have ever seen. Not a morning dog at all 😂 everytime i sit down to knit she just has to lay on top of me.
I couldn't agree more with the above mentioned. There are certain individuals who have acquired the Rhodies (RRBs) for all the wrong reasons and eventually ended up with very disastrous consequences. I am die-hard RRB person since age seven (7-yrs), and I have just secured three young Rhodies from a very reputable breeder.
good advice, thank you
I can’t thank you enough for the info. I just got my first Rhodesian. She’s almost four months old, a handful and I love her so!!
Grew up with Ridgebacks and Ridgeback crosses , pretty much my favorite breed
I have a Lab/Ridgeback mix and I absolutely love her. She legit saved my life one night. Love my Freya 🖤
I have a lab/Ridgeback male and he is my little knight
Awh! We are just about to get a ridgeback and black lab mix puppy! :) so exited and feeling like it's a great combo of a pup
So right on point number three. They are the most fun and at the same time biggest pain as puppies.
Had these dogs since I was a little girl. I find their stubbornness and independence comes to a head around 18 months -2 years. You really have to persist and train. You have to be more stubborn. Totally worth it if you put the time and effort in. Best dogs to have.
Agree
I have one and it’s the best family dog ever. Excellent guard dog. Very protective.
I’ve watched this with my ridgeback, now he mad bro
I've had Ridgebacks nearly my whole life. They aren't for everyone but they are amazing dogs. Extremely difficult puppies!
I love your channel.
I have been a dog person all of my life and have always had rescue dogs. Penny (our RRB) adopted us in October 2012 and quickly took a huge part of our hearts. All RRB owners know how intelligent and independant they are - I have often said that their personality is more human than canine. In September 2015 I had an accident where I severely damaged my hand, this put me into a depression and the only one who could reach me and drag me back was Penny - this made our connection even stronger and more special. On 13 December, 4 weeks ago, whilst out for our morning walk Penny collapsed and died, as far as we know she was 11. I would not have missed those 8 years with Penny, but the heartbreak when she died was and still is incomperable. As a dog person, I now have a new 4 legged furry - no dog could replace Penny so I decided not to try and went for the complete opposite, a male greyhound called Alfie - he is affectionate, great fun, great company and a great personality, so why is my heart breaking all over again as I write this about my princess? This is the one huge problem with being owned by a Ridgeback.
So sorry to hear about your loss. Sadly no dog can ever be replaced but we are lucky enough to bring new ones int our home. Hoping training continues to go well with Alfie!
I had a ridgeback as a kid. Was the first dog that was "mine". Greatest dog I ever had. I'd ride my skateboard with him instead of walking, he'd give me an inquisitive look like you ready? He would wait until I'd tell him "lets go." I'd just hold on to the leash and would be skitching off him like a car. All I would have to do is say "let's go home" and he would turn around and run us home. We both had so much fun. I never trained him but he somehow knew what I wanted and what I was saying. Smartest dog I've ever had, we would put him in his cage when we left cause my parents "didn't want him to destroy the house" but he figured out how to undo the locks so he could walk around and guard the house when we weren't there. We had chickens in the back yard and he would sometimes chase them but never go after them/hurt them, he'd just play chase with them. He slept in my room and if my parents came in to wake me up for school he'd sit up & growl until he smelled who it was or saw when the light came on and stopped when he knew who it was & wasn't a threat, incredibly protective & cautious. My dad didnt like it at first but realized after a couple weeks he's just making sure it's not a stranger there to hurt me. Best guard dog. If he was in the back yard when I got off the school bus, he'd hear it stop and jump the chain link fence, run down the street to me & walk me home. It's been almost 20 years and I miss that dog more than anything, he was my best friend, only dog that truly felt like a protector & companion. Rhodesians are the greatest breed to me, my parents were AKC judges so been around almost every breed. Non come close to a rhodesian ridgeback. Can't wait to get a yard again and get another. Man I miss him, became an akc champion too.
My first dog was a Rhodesian Ridgeback, who was a rescue. She had already had a good level of training, but we weren't told her commands. I ended up doing research and training her myself. She was a quick learner, and we got to the point we learned to communicate rather quickly. However, the one thing she was not trained in, was proper leash manners. And that took a lot longer, a month of daily practice in the back yard, then a month of daily practice in the backyard and on walks, then four months just on walks. It took six months total of consistent work, to get her to the point where she would listen to not only me, but other family members on walks as well.
But I did it, and the most frustrating part was teaching my dad and he never really got it. He still has some no scientific understandings, when it comes to interacting with dogs. Like you need to be the Alpha with your dog, instead of just a consistent firm and not mean parent like figure.
I actually ended up training both of our dogs now, our second one was a one year old Anatolian Shepherd Golden Lab mix. She was also a rescue, and I love working breeds so much now. But gosh, my family is exasperated that they listen to be best, even though I'm the only one that constantly trained and worked with them.
My 10yr old is my 2nd Ridgeback. Best dogs I have ever had. Will ALWAYS have a ridgeback as my companion animal. I am so in love with them. My husband is a Germain Short Hair guy so 2 high energy hunters, but man what LOVE.
I’ve got a boxer ridgeback. Blessed to have her. She’s AWESOME. stubborn at times but so smart and responsive. She quickly picks up on new things and makes her own way. Incredibly sweet too and affectionate. Blessed to have her man…
Me as well have had him for 10 years and he’s a lover perfect dog for me
I am too old am now non athletic for a Rhodesian Ridgeback . My sister owns one . I love that dog and the dog loves me but RRs are a lot of work . It is debatable but I do think Ridgebacks are the most beautiful dogs of all
I have a ridgeback-boxer mix since he was a puppy a few years ago, and these videos explain so much about why he does what he does. Initially, he looked like a boxer but as he got bigger and bigger - and something funny developed along his spine - I finally did the DNA test and found out he had this much stronger ridgeback lineage. The info about puppy craziness is SO TRUE - Puddles caused so much chaos during those first two years, it drove me a bit mad! (He swallowed a five-inch sewing needle WHOLE with the thread still on it, and five thousand dollars later was back to looking for more stuff to chew on...). Thankfully, he gained a female companion shortly after that (not a ridgeback, she's a smaller pointer-terrier mix but much crazier than he is! She's definitely the alpha in their relationship.). Despite all of the high energy and extreme protectiveness, he's been super wonderful. Wouldn't trade him - or his super adorable puppy-dog eyes, which have gotten him off the hook many, many times - for the world!
We had one for 2 y ago he died 12y old, we loved her so much... but as he says in video we didn't train her well so she was independent and many times out of control because of cats or cyclists.... But next time if I have dog I want the same race and spend more time with him to train ❤️ learn him more discipline
Rip Oscar .
He was my best friend and a ridgeback.
I can’t even tell folks about his character. He was so awesome. Way strong. And intelligent too. Able to balance that out .
Just put my Rhodesian-Thai ridgeback down on Christmas Eve it almost killed me she was my soulmate. I got a phu quoc ridgeback she’s something else lol
My family is all in agreement, time for a new addition to the crew. Dog would be awesome.
Subscribed. Great video, thank you. I have a probably not unique but interesting dog. Her mom is a registered Blue Healer (Australian Cattle Dog) and her dad is a registered Rhodesian Ridgeback. She is about as good at herding anything as I could ever imagine. When I got her at 15 weeks she already had experience herding cattle, sheep, goats, and pigs. She was acquainted with chickens and Guinea Fowl, which I needed. She came with a goat so she’d have a 24 hour exercise and practice partner. I have both her and the goat trained to respond to hand signals in the field. If just hold up one finger she will sit there twitching just waiting for me to send her on a task. She and my other dog both respond to 4 languages, plus sign language, whistling and such. I agree with everything you said about the extreme energy level and need for actually 24 hour outlets for their puppy energy to offgas. I built her and the goat an obstacle course and they have constant access to about 5 acres. She is still young at about 6 months. I’ll be getting a herd of sheep next week which is why I needed her. Yes, if you are not an advanced dog person and have a lot of time (all day outside on a ranch) person who knows how to establish good behavior and create fun distractions early then do not get a ridgeback. I totally agree with every word in this video. I want to breed her back with a purebred Rhodesian Ridgeback and try to make a new type of dog I’ll call the Arizona Cattle Dog.
i have one and he is mixed with a queensland heeler and he is very protective and VERY strong but i put him through the highest training for reactive dogs
#1 is hands down the best point. For example, last year my dog suddenly decided he didn't enjoy walks anymore. I don't know why or what changed, but he would act scared or simply done and drag me back home after only a couple minutes, annoying me greatly as I need to walk to think well. This year, I wasn't having that anymore because we both need the exercise, and he learned over the course of 2 weeks that I am more determined and stubborn than he is, and when I say it's time for walkies, IT'S TIME FOR WALKIES. I took my 75lb dog and picked him up and walked with him. I got a harness so he can't slip out, meaning his butt gets dragged if he tries to sit. We no longer have issues and he's back to being excited for walks. It took patience, and various kinds of strength that came from love, and you need to be that kind of person (which you can learn to be) to have a dog like this and live a good life.
Absolutely none of this scares me😄. I love highly energetic intelligent animals. My pup now (mind you will be ten this year) is very trained and well behaved. He's a german shepherd, border collie mix. Strong, energetic and very intelligent. He knows over 30 commands/tricks. I can't wait to one day get my dream pup.😍
The ridgeback is one of my favourite dogs, pipped at the post by my weimaraner. Hands happily full with this one, so definitely the ridgeback would have been a step too far and would have been a really bad decision for the dog.
Great believer in it's not the dog, it's the owner!
you surprised me.,..good show thanks..I have these dogs long time...they are amazing ...I'm African and I think that helps ...we both hard headed and love nature ....
I love my boy. He's a handful but I love him like a child. Watching videos like this so I can learn
( Very much appreciate your wise and sound advice here. IMHO, the owner described below, while loving her Ridgeback, is not up to the task of her dog's will. The owner doesn't have the discipline, doesn't take the dog on walks at all while believing that roaming around in the yard is fine enough, is too timid and has little boundaries and skillset for such. She makes every excuse for her dog. Scary. I truly wonder if the dog is gonna have a full life or not. )
Word of Caution: My neighbor in her 70's got a Ridgeback who is quite the patrolling watchdog, pretty intelligent, and quite affectionate once she gets to know you. BUT, and this goes for any prospective dog owner in all probability, even though you might purchase a dog that was previously "trained", it doesn't mean squat if they don't follow commands consistently. And this particular Ridgeback routinely doesn't follow every command by her owner. The dog does have an independent spirit, which is only charming until...she ran out on a busy road when the front gate was open while not minding her owner to "Come". Fortunately, she wasn't hit by a car, she's fine. The owner thinks her dog is the bee's knees. Yes, but if she doesn't take greater responsibility for further TRAINING, then she is simply putting the dog at risk through her absent-mindedness.
Moral of the Story: Be sober-minded and responsible when welcoming a dog into one's life.
Ours is a choco lab/Rhoddie mix. We walk her twice a day and take her to doggie day camp. She needs a job and “running the camp” is her job. She is super smart, very protective of our home and of all 4 of us. She can definitely jump our 6 foot fence but luckily we give her lots of attention, play and love.
We didn’t always have a lot of room for our dog, she was a Rhodesian ridgeback, but we still made sure she had her exercise and got her outside time! Definitely owning a fenced in area will help, but even if you don’t it’s possible to take good care of em with a little more work 😅
I have a ridgeback-lab mix. He actually was my first dog! We didn’t know much about ridgebacks and how they behave but he fitted so nicely into our family because we always loved to be active so he was just perfect! He is a bit crazy and energetic but that’s what we love about him. 😊
I got a 4 month old Ridgeback. He's got a Short Haired Pointer as a best friend & training mate. Amazing dogs.
Had one years ago and unless you own a huge and I mean huge piece of land then you're looking at a 2 hour walk a day minimum with smaller walks throughout the day. My dog was like a nuclear reactor powered ginger missile that would instantly play up if she couldn't get the energy out. Also they have a weird ability to absorb all the heat from a fireplace
I picked up 2 Rhodesian ridgeback dashund mix puppies in road & my jack russel/beagle mix is training the prominent ridgeback puppy.. 1 seems more ridgeback & other dashund.. the 1 wit more dashund has more issues training. I tend to be more loving so I try to stay consistent but watching your video is helping me more.
Best breed ever. Have several. They are a special and amazing creature.
I’ve owned 3 and plan to get my 4th next year which will be a service dog :)
I love how you say the breed name!
I can attest now having my ridge back for four months and he is now six months old that if you do not correct them every single time you give a command with a good choke chain correction, e-collar, or other strong device, they will mow you down and figure out how to defy you. They are HIGHLY INTELLIGENT. You must learn to figure them out with what treats they like and also praise them after they do good, even on the choke chain or e-collar. Once they have done what you ask them to (or corrected them to do) then some off leash training with “come”, “sit”, “down”, and “stay” give simple praise & reward of favorite treat - but DONT show the treat: they get very smart at figuring out if you have anything in your hand or not, and then they will defy you. I HIGHLY recommend a trainer to help with 1st time obedience and consistency for at least 5 to 10 home training sessions. Believe me - once you see one counter-surfing and picking up a knife or getting into chemicals, your dinner, or other things, you will want to know how to stop that behavior immediately.
Good day. My situation is as follows, I rescue local dogs, however they have mostly been small. My recent rescue is a Rhodesian Ridgeback that was running loose in a local market. I am trying to find the right home for her for all five reasons you mentioned and the fact that I have 14 small rescues. I will not give her to just anyone. She needs a family with an older child, she has very quickly attached herself to my 14 year old granddaughter. She is very young. If you have a list of people that adopt, please help. Thank you.
I had a Ridgeback for 14 years. Maggie was awesome. She liked to play a hiding game and would hide in my wood line, no doubt amused by my calling for her. A salesman once just appeared out of nowhere. I told him to stand still until I located Maggie. She was also highly protective of my wife and became enraged if she could not keep a constant eye on her. The salesman did not listen. My wife came out the front door, when the salesman walked toward her he inadvertently came between my wife and my dogs line of sight. Maggie came out of the woods like a bullet and I had to tackle her to keep her from eating the salesman. He left quickly and never returned. It is a great memory of that wonderful dog. When I worked late or traveled, I never had to worry about the wife’s safety.
The best and last dog I ever had the privilege of owning I just can't replace him he was the funniest smartest most Naughtiest dog I've ever owned But loyal and a gentle giant My daughter had cancer and he sat with her through it all he knew she wasn't well and he looked after her
I agree with every one, I'm so happy I worked through these, wonderful dog, best I've had
I am a rather shy and timid and small woman and my Ridgeback was my first dog, actually a friend of mine that trained dogs recommended the breed after questioning me what I expect from my dog (and knowing me). I honestly did not know the breed existed until then. But I made sure to find out as much as possible beforehand and I could not possibly have chosen any better suited dog for me. We clicked immediately (we were actually to take a look at the 6-weeks old litter the breeder had and went home with one of the 8-weeks old as she practically had chosen me instead of the other way around). Never had any problems with training or obedience after realizing (very quickly) she would learn very quickly when I made it fun and have the patience of a saint when she tried to outsmart me. The puppy and adolescent phase (they were not kidding they mature as 3 years old!) was sometimes exhausting. Still I can't think of a better breed but... I too always tell people to think it over properly - it is a big dog with a mind of their own and quite a personality that needs a consequent, calm hand and a lot of exercise and that will be a puppy for 3 years - if you are not up to it please leave it be for yours and the dogs sake.
We had to rehome pur Ridgeback last week, overstimulation for this highly sensitive breed was the reason. We are heartbroken. Not all ridgebacks are suitable for in cities. We are so glad we found a place for him at a farm. We had him 2,5 years. I miss him dearly.
If you still get a Ridge back...hold on for a wild ride.
I have the two best Rhodesian ridgebacks. Both are funny, cute, loving and one of them super dramatic. I think that they are amazing dogs.
Is there a dog for a small house we have a small yard and thats it to similar traits to this breed any suggestions??! Intelligent and a guardian dog for tropical conditions
I came across your other channel because we have a Ridgeback puppy. I had no idea you had this channel too. Perfect.
1 of the best Ridgeback videos I've seen. Awesome. Thank you.
I got lucky with my Ridgebacks. We realised we never had to train them. Never needed a leash for walks. Even when there were other dogs in the area. We just understood each other.
I already have one which is 7 years old and loves me
We gonna get a Ridgeback! We rlly love the breed! Its our 2nd dog. We have a big garden and a good place where he can load his energy. Where gonna get hit on puppycursus tho!