Raising a Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy

These dogs are independent, intelligent, and always ready to exercise. Remember these traits and use them to your advantage.

The two most important aspects of raising and training your new Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy are starting early and staying consistent. Learning good manners should start the moment you bring the puppy home.

We highly recommend basic puppy training with a professional guide as early as possible. The Rhodesian Ridgeback can be a stubborn dog and therefore the sooner it learns some rules, the better. The emphasis should be on the relationship between the “Master” and the dog.

Your Ridgeback will want to know his or her place in the pack and creating that place when they are young (and sticking to that) is vitally important. Do not allow a puppy to get away with anything out wouldn’t allow your adult dog to get away with in your home. Be sure to award good behavior. Following commands, chewing on appropriate toys, etc. should all be praised.

Work early on potty training, crate training, learning what is theirs and what they need to leave alone. Basic skills such as sit, leave it, wait, off and gentle should be taught just as soon as possible. Be consistent. They are smart dogs and will soon learn what is expected of them. Rhodesian Ridgebacks do well with reward training.

Your Ridgeback – like many breeds - will not reach full mental maturity until about 2 to 3 years of age. Just as your children needed your full guidance and parenting for many years, so will your Ridgeback puppy. The good news here is that your work in the beginning will be rewarded with the most loyal companion.

Excellent socialization especially from weeks eight to twelve is vital. Take advantage of this important socialization period and introduce your dog to as many people, animals, sounds and places as possible. During this vital period, negative and positive experiences will have a lasting effect on your dog. Consult with your veterinarian to ensure they are properly immunized before visiting other dogs or places with dog excrement.

Adequate exercise is vital for a Rhodesian Ridgeback, even as a puppy. Make sure all adventures are age appropriate and don’t push your puppy to hard. If your puppy has plenty of playtime and outdoor activities, they will be easier to train and happy to sleep.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are excellent companion dogs and will bring years of loving joy to you and your family. Setting standards early will help your through their adolescent years and you will likely avoid some of the typically puppy troubles too.