How to Take Care of Your Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy

Also known as the African lion hound, Rhodesian ridgebacks are set apart from other breeds by a strip of fur that grows backwards along the spine. These dogs were bred for hunting, and were originally used to hunt large game such as lions. Today they can be used as watchdogs. They are protective of their families but often distrust strangers. If you take care of your Rhodesian ridgeback puppy, it will grow into a family friend and sporting companion that can live up to 13 years.

Things You'll Need

  • Puppy food
  • Dog dishes
  • Dog bed
  • Crate
  • Dog brush
  • Dog toys
  • Collar
  • Leash
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Instructions

    • 1

      Take safety precautions before bringing your puppy home. Pick up small objects (such as rocks or Hot Wheels cars) that your inquisitive ridgeback might try tasting. These are as much a choking hazard for puppies as for infants and toddlers. Place electrical cords and household chemicals out of reach. Research plants you have in your home and yard to see if they are poisonous, and remove any that might be a hazard for your Rhodesian ridgeback puppy.

    • 2

      Buy a collar, leash, food and water dishes, grooming supplies and a bed for your Rhodesian ridgeback. A crate is a useful tool for housetraining and can become your puppy's "bedroom." Purchase chews and toys to keep your puppy busy during the day as well, so that it doesn't destroy your furniture or steal your children's stuffed animals. Have all of your puppy's belongings ready when you bring it home.

    • 3

      Feed your Rhodesian ridgeback a puppy formula dog food two to three times a day. Use the recommendations on the back of the package as a guideline for how much to feed your puppy every day. A Rhodesian ridgeback can grow to be 70 to 80 pounds, so feed your puppy a puppy-specific formula for at least a year. Puppy food has extra protein and nutrients to help your puppy grow. Feed your dog at regular times of day to help regulate its internal systems and make potty training easier.

    • 4

      Train and socialize your Rhodesian ridgeback at a young age. Ridgebacks can be stubborn and domineering, so start basic training early to avoid behavior and dominance problems. Rhodesian ridgebacks can also be wary of strangers and aggressive with other dogs. Introduce your puppy to as many new people, dogs, other pets and situations as you possibly can during its first six months of life. This will help prevent your Ridgeback from developing fear and distrust. Puppy classes are one way to help your Ridgeback get a head start on both training and socializing.

    • 5

      Schedule a vet appointment for your Rhodesian ridgeback puppy. Puppies may see a vet every month or two when they are young to get the required vaccinations and physical checkups. In the United States, rabies vaccinations are required by law and should be given to your Ridgeback while it is still a puppy. Rhodesian ridgebacks have few major health concerns, but regular checkups can help you detect any potential problems early on.

    • 6

      Walk your Rhodesian ridgeback puppy every day. Plan two 15- to 20-minute walks each day. Your puppy will also enjoy swimming, jogging or hiking. Make playtime another part of your daily routine. Rhodesian ridgebacks do best when they get exercise every day. This keeps them from becoming bored and frustrated.

    • 7

      Brush your Rhodesian ridgeback once a week to remove dead fur. Bathe your puppy when it looks or feels dirty. Rhodesian ridgebacks, a short-haired breed, require minimal grooming. Take time to clean your dog's eyes when they appear runny. Dry your Ridgeback's large, floppy ears with a towel after swimming or bathing to prevent ear infections.