Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks get along with other dogs?
A muscular breed that shows evidence of its hunting heritage, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a breed known for its strong-willed nature.
These dogs are loyal to their human family members and can be trusted to be protective of everyone.
However, are Rhodesian Ridgebacks good with other dogs is not a simple question because of their territorial nature, and you should be aware of this before adding one of these dogs to your family.
Determining whether your circumstances would work well with adding a second dog is of critical importance.
As with any breed, proper training and socialization will also play a role.
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks stubborn?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks top the list of strong-willed breeds that are fiercely independent.
Considering that the South Africans initially bred them to track lions, they are a breed that has learned to work independently.
This breed initially came from a mixture of the following dogs: the Khoikhoi dog, Mastiffs, Great Danes, Bloodhounds, and Greyhounds.
All of these breeds have strong hunting backgrounds.
All of these breeds are known for having a strong prey drive and being able to hunt independently.
This independent, sometimes stubborn streak can play a role in how well Rhodesian Ridgebacks get along with other dogs.
In ideal circumstances, Ridgebacks and other dogs can get along well, with some work on the owner’s part.
Understanding the breed’s temperament and unique emotional needs make a difference.
Do Rhodesian Ridgebacks generally like other dogs?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks, in general, do like the company of other dogs.
Historically, they hunted as part of a pack, which made them more inclined to work as part of a team than as solitary hunters.
Most of these dogs will enjoy at least one other canine companion to share their home with, along with their human family.
Neutering or spaying dogs that will not be part of a responsible breeding program will help prevent many behavioral issues.
However, as large dogs, you will need to be aware of the fact that they might play somewhat roughly.
Caution needs to be taken around smaller breeds to prevent the risk of injury.
Dogs the size of Rhodesian Ridgebacks are often unaware of their own strength, and could seriously injure a smaller breed.
The same principle would also apply to allowing interaction between Ridgebacks and puppies.
Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks a dominant breed?
Ridgebacks can have problems with struggling for dominance in households with multiple males.
These dogs’ large size and hunting instincts make them naturally inclined to try to lead other dogs.
Owners of Rhodesian Ridgebacks need to show leadership to decrease the issues that arise with dominance.
A calm, assertive owner can help keep a dog’s dominant tendencies in check.
In households with multiple male dogs, there will be more struggles for dominance.
Even though all dogs will try to establish a pecking order among themselves, the owner needs to have a sense of authority over all the dogs.
Most dogs will look to their owners as leaders, making it all the more important for owners to fulfill that role willingly.
Dogs are disinclined to be defiant by nature but may do so if owners don’t lead.
Should you get a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
It’s easy for prospective owners to fall in love with a breed they only know from pictures or video.
However, you may need to think twice if you have no experience with this breed.
How active is your household? If you’re a family always out walking or hiking, this is perfect for a Ridgeback.
However, passive owners may not be able to reign in their dog’s energy level.
Does your household have a fenced-in yard? Ridgebacks are inclined to chase almost everything they see.
Confrontations with other dogs on-leash are possible. A fenced-in yard provides the safest environment for your dog.
The next thing you will need to think about is your current dogs. The size, breed, temperament, and age of your current dog or dogs matters.
What dog breeds are best with a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Regardless of gender, the ideal dog to keep a Rhodesian Ridgeback company is another large breed.
The average weight is 70 to 85 pounds. Most of these dogs are 24 to 27 inches tall.
Dogs of breeds that are a similar size are a good match for Ridgebacks.
One breed that is a good match is the Boxer. These dogs are large, strong, and able to keep up with Ridgebacks.
Great Danes are also another good choice as companions for Rhodesian Ridgebacks. These dogs are large enough to keep up with Ridgebacks’ demands easily.
Mastiffs also have the size and strength necessary to withstand the demands of a Ridgeback as a companion.
Which dog personalities are suitable for a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Dogs with friendly, non-domineering personalities usually do well with Rhodesian Ridgebacks.
A dog with a healthy sense of adventure will make a perfect companion.
Any dog that is a companion for a Ridgeback should be playful or tolerate play well. These dogs play a lot when they are young.
The dogs they live with should at least be tolerant of these traits.
One thing to keep in mind is that Rhodesian Ridgebacks can have dominance issues with other dogs of the same sex.
Males may have issues, but females can also have aggression issues. Proper introductions are essential.
How Should You Introduce Your Dog to a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Whenever possible, have a meet-and-greet with the breeder or rescue.
You’ll have a chance to see if the dogs interact well. Request an interaction at a neutral location to avoid needless protectiveness.
Introduce both dogs leashed, preferably in the yard.
Watch to see if the interactions are friendly. If the dogs show signs of wanting to play, allow them to do so.
Avoid leaving the dogs together alone in the house at first. Always feed the dogs separately. Give each dog a crate for a sleeping or relaxation space.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks can do very well with other dogs. Proper introductions are the key to success.
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