Rhodesian Ridgeback Behaviour Problems And How To Deal With Them

 

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a highly intelligent and energetic African hunter dog which can also have a stubborn personality. Although admittedly, every dog has an individual character, this breed can suffer behavioural problems if not dealt with properly. Some of the most common issues include excess barking, hyperactivity and aggression, amongst other issues. If you own a Rhodesian Ridgeback, and these issues sound familiar, read this article to learn how to deal with them. You will learn how to make not only your own life more comfortable but also your canine companions too.

 

Rhodesian Ridgeback Behaviour Problems. Which Are Most Common?

 

Barking

 

Because barking is a dog’s natural way of communicating, it is simply impossible to stop completely. There are some breeds of dog which do bark more than others, and the Rhodesian Ridgeback is one of them. The reason for this is that this breed is a hunter at heart, traditionally used to hunt animals like lions, tigers and bears, amongst others. Although their use has now primarily changed to sports and pets for active families, they are still sometimes used for their original purpose. As such, if their physical and mental stimulation is lacking, they can bark repetitively. 

 

If this sounds familiar with your own Rhodesian Ridgeback, there are several things you can do:

 

• Start training your dog straight away from a puppy to guarantee a better future for both of you
• Be aware of your dog’s body language. If it is pawing you, this could be an indication that it requires attention
• Encourage good behaviour by offering treats and discourage. Bad behaviour with a loud noise or water spray. Most dogs dislike both these things

 

Guarding Food

 

This Rhodesian Ridgeback temperament is entirely typical. These dogs originally hunted in packs as predators and are used to competing for food when it is sparse. You may notice they even do this with household objects. To an extent, this is ok, and you shouldn’t punish them. Instead, it would be best if you encourage good behaviour from when your dog is a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy.

 

If food gathering behaviour starts to become problematic with your canine, try some of the following:

 

• Hand-feed your dog by holding treats in one hand while speaking to it gently
• During feeding, approach the bowl and place treats there. Your dog will get used to having humans around during feeding time and will start to see it less as a threat
• Seek professional help if your dog becomes aggressive. The trainer will be fully equipped to deal with the issue

 

Overly Energetic

 

Due to the Rhodesian Ridgeback size, this large breed of dog is bouncing with energy and needs a way to burn it off. If you are someone who is considering a dog which will mainly stay at home, this breed isn’t for you. Being natural hunters, they would traditionally help humans with things like hunting, flocks and property guardians. Use the following suggestions to keep your dog physically engaged:

 

• Regularly walk it or play games like fetch or tug of war to burn off excess energy
• Keep it engaged with tricks and commands. Offer it prizes or foods as a reward
• Make it work for its food by using food toys from pet stores rather than just filling its bowl

 

Aggression and Destruction

 

This breed has a particularly bad reputation for aggression which can take many different forms. If you recognise this in your Rhodesian Ridgeback, visit a vet for help and advice. It could be a sign of Rhodesian Ridgeback health problems such as hyperthyroidism or a neurological disorder. However, if after conducting tests, this comes back clear, the problem will be most likely a behavioural one. You will need to find a suitable trainer to get to the reason for aggression. Trying to fix the problem yourself could only make matters even worse. 

 

Chasing

 

It isn’t uncommon for this type of dog to go for another animal. After all, it was the original function of the Rhodesian Ridgeback. You may also find that your canine tries to be dominant in a pack or is aggressive. This is normal as they like to be the dominant or alfa member of the pack. Nevertheless, a line does need to be drawn with this behaviour. Give the following a go and see if they help:

 

• Keep your Rhodesian Ridgeback on a lead at all times. It keeps other animals safe and makes sure you remain in control
• Fit a bell to your dog’s collar. It will alert other animals if your dog starts running towards them
• Try and tire your canine out. They are easier to train this way and may also interact better with other animals
• Look for the signs when your animal clocks another animal so you can stop it in its tracks
• Distract its attention when it becomes distracted by luring it with treats

 

Stubborn Nature

 

Rhodesian Ridgebacks do naturally take the lead and try and be alfa in the pack. Moreso if it lacks a dominant owner, which can eventually lead to behavioural problems. If this wasn’t bad enough, these kinds of dogs are also stubborn and will require a firm approach. We don’t recommend Rhodesians for first-time dog owners. However, if you are currently having difficulties with your own dog, consider reaching out for professional help and start to get your dog back in control.

 

Our Final Say On Dealing With Rhodesian Ridgeback Behaviour Problems

 

The most important thing to remember about Rhodesian Ridgebacks is that they are energetic dogs which will try and assert their dominance due to their background in hunting. And so, their traits will naturally be ‘pack-like’ in nature. If you are a first-time dog owner, we discourage you from choosing this species as they can be hard work for a newbie. 

 

If you already own a Rhodesian Ridgeback, there are many behavioural traits your dog may display that you shouldn’t have to tolerate. Although early training is the best way to encourage good behaviour, there are times when you will need to see a professional for help. Intervening yourself may make Rhodesian Ridgeback Behaviour Problems worse and make your dog more aggressive. There are lots of ‘self-help’ options, however. Such as:

 

• Reading your dog’s body language and behaviour, and discouraging bad behaviour with treats
• Hand-feeding your Rhodesian Ridgeback and making a presence during feeding
• Keeping your dog on a lead, fitting a bell on the collar or luring it with treats to stop it chasing other animals