Rhodesian Ridgeback
roh-DEE-zhun RIJ-bak
Dignified, Even-tempered, Loyal, Strong-willed. Originally bred for tracking and baying lions, guarding homesteads.
An adult Rhodesian Ridgeback weighs 80-90 lbs (male) or 65-75 lbs (female), needs 1,240-2,260 calories daily, and lives 10-12 yrs. Large breeds need portion control and joint-conscious exercise, especially during growth. The breed's primary health watch is hip dysplasia. All numbers below come from AKC breed standards and NRC 2006 veterinary nutrition formulas.
Nutrition and feeding
A typical adult Rhodesian Ridgeback needs 1,240 to 2,260 calories per day. An average male (85 lbs / 38.6 kg) needs around 1,840 kcal; a female (70 lbs / 31.8 kg) roughly 1,590 kcal. These estimates use the vet-standard RER/MER formula.
Estimate for a typical adult Rhodesian Ridgeback. For puppies, seniors, or specific activity levels, use the full calorie calculator.
Health profile
Large breeds face a particular set of health challenges related to their size and growth rate. The Rhodesian Ridgeback typically lives 10-12 yrs. The breed's primary health concerns are hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia, which responsible breeders screen for before breeding.
Exercise and activity
60-90 minutes of vigorous daily exercise. Ridgebacks are powerful athletes built for speed and endurance. They need room to run. Hound breeds follow their noses (or eyes) with single-minded determination. Off-leash exercise for a Rhodesian Ridgeback requires a securely fenced area because recall is unreliable when a scent captures their attention. Nose work, tracking games, and long leash walks through interesting environments channel their natural instincts constructively. Without sufficient exercise, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is likely to develop destructive behaviors, excessive barking, or anxiety. This is a breed that needs daily commitment to physical activity.
Care and traits
Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a short, dense, sleek (with distinctive dorsal ridge) coat. Origin: Southern Africa (Zimbabwe/South Africa).
The distinctive ridge of hair running along their back grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. Dermoid sinus (a neural tube defect unique to ridged breeds) can be serious; reputable breeders screen for it. They're the only breed bred to hold lions at bay; their courage and independence reflect this heritage.
Grooming needs are minimal. A weekly brushing to remove loose hair and distribute skin oils is sufficient for most Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Bathing is only needed when the dog is noticeably dirty or smelly.
Tools for Rhodesian Ridgeback owners
Frequently asked questions
Daily calorie needs for a Rhodesian Ridgeback range from 1240 to 2260 kcal. A 85-pound individual falls near the middle of that range. Avoid high-calorie puppy foods designed for small breeds. Large breed puppies need moderate calorie density with controlled calcium and phosphorus. Active hunting hounds burn significantly more than the resting estimate. Adjust for actual activity level. Use our calorie calculator with your dog's actual weight for a personalized number.
Males typically weigh 80-90 lbs (36.3–40.8 kg). Females run lighter at 65-75 lbs (29.5–34.0 kg). Large breeds carry weight in the midsection and over the ribs. A visible waist from above and a tuck behind the ribs when viewed from the side indicate healthy condition. Check body condition by feeling the ribs (they should be easy to find), viewing from above (waist should narrow behind the ribs), and from the side (abdomen should tuck up behind the ribcage).
The Rhodesian Ridgeback's most notable breed-specific vulnerability is hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition where the hip joint doesn't fit together properly. Screening through OFA or PennHIP before breeding is standard practice. In pet dogs, maintaining a lean body weight is the most effective way to manage and slow progression. Other conditions seen in the breed include elbow dysplasia, dermoid sinus, hypothyroidism. Regular vet visits with breed-specific screening catch problems when they are most treatable.
A Rhodesian Ridgeback thrives on 60 to 90 minutes of daily physical activity. Good activities for this breed include scent trails, tracking games, long rural walks. Mental stimulation through training and puzzle toys is as important as physical exercise for this breed. An under-exercised Rhodesian Ridgeback will find outlets for pent-up energy, often in ways you will not appreciate: chewing, barking, digging, or restless pacing.
Disclaimer: General breed information based on AKC standards and veterinary sources. Individual dogs vary. Calorie estimates use the RER/MER formula (NRC 2006). Consult your veterinarian for advice specific to your dog. See our sources.
Last reviewed: April 1, 2026