Is the Rhodesian Ridgeback a Healthy Dog Breed?

Are Rhodesian Ridgebacks a healthy breed? That’s something I asked myself back in 2017 when I brought home my first Ridgeback puppy. At first glance, they look like the definition of strength and vitality — lean, muscular, athletic. But like any breed, they have their health quirks. Let’s talk about what you need to know if you’re thinking of adding a Ridgeback to your family or already have one snoozing on your couch.

The Short Answer: Ridgebacks can be healthy — but only with the right start and ongoing care.

A lot depends on where your dog comes from (breeder or rescue), how they’re raised, and how you care for them day-to-day. Genetics, diet, exercise, and regular vet checks — it all adds up.

Common Health Concerns in Rhodesian Ridgebacks

Just because they look strong doesn’t mean they’re immune to health issues. Here are some of the most common ones we’ve seen with Ridgebacks:

• Dermoid Sinus: This is a congenital defect linked to that signature ridge along their back. It’s essentially a tube-like skin defect that can lead to infection. Responsible breeders screen for this — make sure yours did.

• Bloat (GDV): Like other deep-chested breeds, Ridgebacks are prone to gastric dilatation-volvulus — a sudden, life-threatening bloating and twisting of the stomach. It’s scary, but knowing the signs can save your dog’s life.

• Hip & Elbow Dysplasia: These joint issues can show up as limping or stiffness, especially after exercise. Left unchecked, they can lead to arthritis.

• Hypothyroidism: This can make your Ridgeback sluggish, overweight, and even depressed. It’s manageable with medication, but you’ll need a vet to diagnose it.

• Ear Infections & Deafness: Not unique to Ridgebacks, but their floppy ears can trap moisture and debris if not cleaned regularly.

Other possible (but less common) issues include allergies, eye conditions like cataracts or glaucoma, and even some types of cancer. The key is not to panic — just stay informed, stay observant, and stay in touch with your vet.

How to Give Your Ridgeback the Healthiest Life Possible

We've learned (sometimes the hard way) that prevention is everything. Here’s what’s worked for us:

1. Choose your breeder or rescue wisely.
We can’t stress this enough. A reputable breeder will screen for genetic conditions and be transparent about the health of the puppy’s parents. Avoid puppy mills — no matter how cute that little face is, the long-term heartbreak isn’t worth it.

If you’re adopting, ask the shelter about the dog’s medical history and behavior. Many rescues do health checks and can give you a good idea of what to expect.

2. Feed them well.
Ridgebacks are high-energy dogs, and they need quality food to match. Look for dog food with real meat listed first, and skip anything packed with fillers like corn or by-products. Avoid giving them human foods that are toxic to dogs — like grapes, onions, chocolate, or anything with xylitol.

3. Keep them lean and active.
Obesity sneaks up fast, especially with large breeds. A Ridgeback just 10% over their ideal weight is already considered overweight. That extra weight puts stress on their joints and organs. Regular exercise is a must — and not just a leisurely walk. These dogs love to run, so give them space and time to stretch those legs.

4. Vet visits and insurance.
Pet insurance has saved our wallets more than once. Look for a plan that covers regular checkups and potential emergencies. And don’t skip those yearly exams — catching something early can make all the difference.

5. Don’t forget the little things.
Trim their nails. Clean their ears. Brush their coat. Brush their teeth. It all adds up to a healthier, happier dog. Plus, these routines help you spot problems early — like a lump, sore spot, or stinky ear that wasn’t stinky last week.

When Something Feels Off…

If your Ridgeback seems off — less energetic, limping, not eating — don’t wait it out. These dogs are stoic and may hide pain. A quick call to the vet can give you peace of mind or catch something before it gets serious.

Bottom Line:
Rhodesian Ridgebacks can live healthy, active lives — we’ve seen it firsthand. But it takes effort, awareness, and a commitment to doing right by them from day one. If you’re ready for that, you’ll have one of the most loyal, loving, and impressive companions by your side.