Puppy Information

Show or Pet

Once you find an ethical/reputable breeder that you are happy with, the first thing they are likely to ask you is, "Are you interested in a pet or show puppy?" That's because exhibitors/breeders, categorize pups into two groups - show potential or pet. Hearing this, some people may feel that if they ask for "pet", they will get an inferior dog, but they shouldn't. Don't be afraid to ask the litter owner just what makes a puppy a pet to them.

A good way to define show and pet:

A show puppy is one who has no obvious show faults (at that age) that would hurt it's chances of completing it's championship title. A pet quality is one who probably wouldn't title or would have considerable trouble and neutering would be required.

Some examples of things which would make a Ridgeback pup a "pet quality" would be:

The Ridgeback's most obvious feature - the ridge. A ridge has a standard of perfection as to length, width, definition, placement and number of crowns. Sometime the crowns are off-set, one or more may be missing or there may be more than 2 crowns associated with the ridge. It may be too short or not start correctly behind the shoulder, or it may not be there at all! A ridgeless puppy would still have all the wonderful attributes of the breed.

There are other examples, such as too much white on the paws or chest, too small or large in size, a kink in the tail, improper ear carriage or size, flaws in the bite, angulation, structure, gait or attitude. A male pup may have undescended testicles. Most of these things would matter to an exhibitor or dog show judge, but wouldn't be obvious to the average dog owner.

A pet pup may not be "ideal" for the standard but it doesn't mean they can't be the perfect pet and family companion! They'll still have the body and legs to go for a romp or to play ball, perfectly good ears to hear your call, a mouth to eat their food and a loud bark to warn off strangers.....the ridge might not be ideal but it will be attached to a warm, friendly body that'll love to be petted, a tongue for kisses and a wagging tail to greet you at home. So what if it's not perfect - who is?

Pet or show, dogs are made for unconditional love! All good breeders just want each pup to get the best home possible and for each to get the love and care they deserve. In that sense, there is no such thing as an inferior dog!

Planning For Your RR puppy is Essential

Dogs, especially puppies, will make a big demand on your time. It takes time to properly feed, train and play with a new puppy. Just like babies, young puppies are not able to make it through the night and you will have to get up and take them out. If you work, a new pup might require that you come home at lunch time to let them out or hire a noon time helper to assist you.

Ridgebacks need plenty of exercise to stay happy and healthy. You'll need to set aside playtime and time for training. Young puppies need a lot of socialization to be good companions. A weekly obedience training class and daily practice is a must for your Ridgeback to become a welcome member of the community!

If this seems like too much for you and your family's schedule, then perhaps this is not the right time to get a Ridgeback.

Your Ridgeback Will Need Your Protection

Ridgebacks naturally want to hunt and have no sense of cars or boundaries when they go after a possum, rabbit or cat. A fenced yard is important for your dog's safety. Once a Ridgeback starts after a possum or rabbit, nothing short of a six foot wall or fence may stop them. Dogs allowed to roam are in danger from becoming lost, of being hit by a car or being poisoned. Your certainly don't want your new puppy to run away or get lost or killed. It's also good idea to have your Ridgeback wear an identification tag or, better yet, to have your dog permanently identified with a tattoo or microchip just in case he manages to get loose despite your efforts. And, of course, when he leaves the yard he'll need a leash.

Your Ridgeback must have adequate shelter if he is outdoors while you are away. Shelters must be cool in the summer and warm in the winter.!

Ridgebacks Grow to be Big Dogs

Puppies don't stay little for long! When looking for any breed you need to consider one that suits your environment and lifestyle. Take the time to research a breed you are interested in....visit in the homes of breeders or individuals who own that breed. Ridgebacks may be appealing to you in a physical sense, but they may not have the temperament suitable to your lifestyle. For example: Ridgebacks at play are very energetic - they need lots of space, can knock down children and adults when they are roughhousing. If you live in the city, you will need to first locate a dog park or area where your Ridgeback can safely run and exercise... a tired puppy is a good puppy!

What to Feed Your Ridgeback

Regardless of who you ask, everyone has their own "master plan" for feeding their Ridgeback. Many advocate a raw diet or the addition of raw items and supplements � ie vegetable matter, meat and bones, vitamins, minerals, herbs, etc. Lots of folk with one dog will cook especially for the dog. However, the majority of dog owners feed a good quality commercial kibble. Your puppies� breeder should give you a comprehensive puppy pack complete with recommended feeding plan and instructions on how to care for your new family member.

Money Concerns

The initial price of a dog is of concern to some, but it�s the lifelong cost that they sometimes forget. In addition to the purchase price of your dog, you must plan for food, grooming, collars, a leash and some toys and a special bed. Add in vet care and those training lessons!

All dogs need annual vaccination, heartworm medication, and...just like humans...regular checkups. Sometimes, dogs require flea and tick treatments or expensive treatments for unexpected ailments or illnesses. Ask yourself if you can afford a dog.

Ridgebacks Need Companionship

Friendship is a two-way street. Your puppy deserves plenty of attention, if he gets your love and devotion he'll be less inclined to bark or chew your belongings, or run away from home by climbing out. Dogs are emotional beings and to neglect them by banishing them to a lonely life in the yard, on a chain or permanently in a run is cruel and abusive. Just like children, you have to love and instruct them on proper behavior to have a well adjusted Ridgeback that is a pleasure to be around.

The average life span of most Ridgebacks is ten to twelve years, but some have lived for sixteen years! So, your dog will depend on you for love and care for a long time. Being a responsible dog owner is an important job and requires your serious commitment.

Adapted with permission - Kalahari Rhodesian Ridgebacks.