Understanding Rhodesian Ridgeback Health Issues

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are a relatively healthy breed, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Hip dysplasia is a common problem, with a study showing that 22.5% of Rhodesian Ridgebacks suffer from this condition.

Hip dysplasia can lead to arthritis, which can cause pain and stiffness in the hips and joints. This can affect the dog's mobility and quality of life.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are also at risk of developing skin allergies, with a study indicating that 15% of the breed suffers from this condition. These allergies can cause itchy skin, redness, and irritation.

Regular grooming and a balanced diet can help alleviate skin allergies in Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

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Brushing your dog's teeth daily will prevent periodontal disease. Regular dental care can also help prevent bad breath and gum inflammation.

Daily brushing is essential for maintaining your Rhodesian Ridgeback's dental health, so make it a habit to brush their teeth every day.

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The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a unique breed that's full of personality. They're highly energetic and active outdoors, but with enough exercise and socialization, they're a laid-back and reliable family companion.

Their strong will and mischievous nature can make them a handful, but with a calm and confident leader and positive reinforcement, they're easily trainable. Rhodesians are intelligent and vigilant, naturally protective but not aggressive.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks enjoy family time and are generally "people" dogs that, when mature, are content to relax on the couch. They're good with children and quiet, not much of a barker.

However, they can be rambunctious and rowdy, especially as a puppy, and require vigorous, frequent exercise and space to run. They're also easily bored if not given something to do, which leads to barking and chewing.

Here are some key characteristics of the Rhodesian Ridgeback breed:

Your Rhodesian Ridgeback's health is a top priority, and one of the simplest yet most effective ways to keep them healthy is by brushing their teeth daily. This will prevent periodontal disease.

Regular dental care can make a big difference in your dog's overall health and well-being.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are prone to various health issues, some of which can be serious and even life-threatening if left untreated. Obesity is a significant health problem in this breed, which can lead to joint problems, metabolic disorders, and heart disease.

Many infections are preventable through vaccination, but bacterial and viral infections like parvo, rabies, and distemper can still occur. Regular veterinary check-ups and preventative measures can help minimize the risk of these infections.

Dental disease is a common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of dogs by age two, and Rhodesian Ridgebacks are more likely to have problems with their teeth. Regular teeth cleaning and good oral hygiene can help prevent dental disease and its associated health issues.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections, the same ones that all dogs can get.

Infections such as parvo, rabies, and distemper are common among Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area and other factors.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks can get these infections just like any other dog.

Preventable infections include parvo, rabies, and distemper.

Parasites can invade your Rhodie's body, inside and out, causing a range of problems.

Fleas, ticks, and ear mites can infest your Rhodie's skin and ears, leading to discomfort and pain.

Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system through contaminated water, soil, or mosquito bites.

Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member, making them a serious concern for everyone in the household.

Regular testing is crucial to catch these parasites early and prevent more severe issues.

Preventive medication may be necessary to keep your Rhodie healthy, and it's essential to follow the recommended treatment plan.

Parasites can cause pain, discomfort, and even death in your canine friend, making it vital to take proactive measures to protect her health.

Allergies are a common issue that can affect both humans and dogs. In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch.

In dogs, allergies make their skin itchy, and we call this skin allergy "atopy". Rhodesians often have it.

The symptoms of atopy in dogs typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Commonly, the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most affected.

Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of atopy in dogs. This can be a real challenge for dog owners, but there is hope.

The good news is that there are many treatment options available for this condition.

Obesity can be a significant health problem in Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

It's a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease.

Giving in to those soulful eyes with leftover people food and doggie treats can "love them to death."

Instead, give your pal a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or take her for a walk.

She'll feel better, and so will you!

Dental disease is a common chronic problem in pets, affecting 80% of all dogs by age two.

Your dog's breed, in this case, Rhodesian Ridgeback, is more likely to have problems with their teeth.

Tartar build-up on the teeth is the start of the problem, which can progress to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth.

If left untreated, dental disease can lead to a range of serious health issues, including damaging the kidneys, liver, heart, and joints.

In severe cases, dental disease can even cut a dog's life span short by one to three years.

Regular teeth cleaning is crucial to prevent or treat dental disease, and your veterinarian will be able to advise on the best schedule for your dog.

Eye problems can have a dramatic impact on your dog's quality of life, and Rhodesian Ridgebacks are particularly prone to certain conditions.

Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Rhodesians, which can be treated with surgery to remove the cloudy lenses and restore sight.

Glaucoma is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated, and symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea, and redness in the whites of the eyes.

Entropion is a condition where the eyelid rolls inward, causing the eyelashes to rub against the cornea, which can be extremely irritating and painful, and can ultimately lead to blindness.

Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye, which can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain if left untreated.

Surgical correction is usually successful if performed early for entropion and distichiasis, and several treatment options are available to permanently remove the abnormal hairs.

Glaucoma is a medical emergency, and if you see symptoms, don't wait to call your vet, go to an emergency clinic right away.

Ridgelessness is a characteristic that can be a fault in Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Being born without the characteristic ridge of hair along their backs is a fault, although it causes no health problems.

This cosmetic defect is a notable trait that sets the breed apart, and lacking it is considered a fault. Dogs with this characteristic are still healthy and can make wonderful pets.

However, due to its significance in the breed's identity, dogs without the ridge should not be used for breeding. This helps preserve the breed's unique features for future generations.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks were named for the characteristic ridge of hair along their backs, making this trait a defining feature of the breed.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia, which can lead to severe bleeding during surgery or after a serious injury.

Their joints are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. This can lead to stiffness, lameness, and difficulty getting up from lying down.

Mast cell tumors, a type of skin cancer, are more common in Rhodesian Ridgebacks and can look like other skin lumps and lesions. Early detection and removal are critical for treatment.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are also more likely to be born with spinal deformities, known as hemivertebrae, which can lead to spinal cord damage, instability, or disability.

Your Rhodesian Ridgeback is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This can lead to severe bleeding during surgery or after a serious injury.

We'll conduct diagnostic testing to assess his blood clotting time before we perform surgery. This is an important step to ensure your pet's safety.

Severe bleeding can occur during surgery or after a serious injury, and it's possible that you may not know your pet has this disorder until then.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are prone to certain neurological conditions that can affect their quality of life. One such condition is wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, which causes a wobbly, drunken gait due to a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck that pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves.

The first signs of wobbler disease include unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. If left untreated, the condition can lead to a range of symptoms, including a loss of feeling in the hind legs.

Degenerative Myelopathy is another condition that affects Rhodesian Ridgebacks, causing weakness and poor nerve function in the hind legs. It's similar to ALS or Lou Gehrig's Disease in people and can lead to paralysis in the hindquarters, as well as incontinence.

A genetic test is available to determine whether your dog is at risk for Degenerative Myelopathy. However, there is no cure for the condition, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms through rehabilitation, exercise, acupuncture, and dietary supplements.

If you notice any of the following symptoms in your Rhodesian Ridgeback, seek veterinary help immediately:

Early detection and treatment can make a big difference in your dog's quality of life.

Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Rhodesian Ridgebacks, and the sooner they are surgically removed the better.

They often look just like other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, some of which are harmless, and others not. All suspicious lumps should be tested and any questionable lump should be surgically removed as soon as possible.

Many cancers are cured by surgically removing them, so early detection and removal is critical.

If you notice any lumps or bumps on your Rhodesian Ridgeback, don't hesitate to take action.

Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are prone to a number of musculoskeletal problems, but with diligent observation and knowledge, you can take great care of your friend throughout his life.

Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. Stiffness in your Rhodesian's elbows or hips may become a problem for him, especially as he matures.

You may notice that your Rhodesian begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. This could be a sign of arthritis, which can be treated with medication and other therapies.

Overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering. Keeping your Rhodesian at a healthy weight can help prevent this issue.

Your Rhodesian's kneecap (patella) may slip out of place, causing him to pick up a back leg and skip or hop for a few strides. This condition is called patellar luxation.

If your Rhodesian has mild patellar luxation, you may not need to do much beyond providing arthritis medication. However, if the problem is severe, surgery may be necessary to realign the kneecap.

Growing Rhodesians can suffer from a painful inflammation of the long bones in the legs, known as eosinophilic panosteitis or pano. This condition usually starts at around six to ten months of age and shifts from leg to leg.

Panosteitis usually causes no permanent damage, but requires pain medication to manage the discomfort. If your dog develops an abnormal gait to compensate for the sore leg(s), rehabilitation exercises may be necessary.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are more likely than other canines to be born with spinal deformities, a condition called hemivertebrae. These deformities can lead to spinal cord damage, instability, or disability.

Taking X-rays of your Rhodesian when he is young can help identify problems early, reducing the risk of complications as he ages.

Rhodesians are prone to a common condition called hypothyroidism in which the body doesn’t make enough thyroid hormone.

The signs of hypothyroidism can be quite noticeable and may include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes.

We'll conduct a blood screening test annually to screen for the disease.

Treatment for hypothyroidism is usually simple and involves replacement hormones given in the form of a pill.

As a Rhodesian Ridgeback owner, it's essential to be aware of the potential health concerns that can affect your furry friend. One of the most critical things to watch for is any abnormal symptom that could be a sign of serious disease.

Changes in appetite or water consumption can be a red flag, so keep an eye on your dog's eating habits and water intake. If you notice any unusual patterns, consult with your veterinarian right away.

Tartar build-up, bad breath, red gums, or broken teeth can indicate oral health issues. Regular dental care and check-ups can help prevent these problems.

Itchy skin, scratching, chewing, or licking can be a sign of skin allergies or irritations. Keep an eye out for hair loss and consult with your vet if you notice any unusual skin issues.

Lethargy, mental dullness, or excessive sleeping can be a sign of underlying health issues. If you notice any changes in your dog's behavior or energy level, it's essential to seek veterinary help.

Fearfulness, aggression, or other behavioral changes can be a sign of underlying health issues or anxiety. If you notice any changes in your dog's behavior, consult with your veterinarian.

Dull coat, hair loss, sluggishness, or weight gain can be a sign of underlying health issues. Keep an eye on your dog's overall health and consult with your vet if you notice any unusual changes.

Lumps or bumps, regardless of size, can be a sign of skin cancer or other health issues. If you notice any unusual growths, consult with your veterinarian right away.

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Here's a list of common signs to watch for:

To keep your Rhodesian Ridgeback happy and healthy, it's essential to establish a routine care schedule. This includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and consistent veterinary check-ups.

Brushing your dog's teeth daily can prevent periodontal disease, as recommended for Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Keep in mind that they also need regular brushing of their coat, at least weekly.

Here are some key routine care tasks to consider:

It's also crucial to provide a high-quality diet suitable for your dog's age and to keep their diet consistent. Avoid giving them people food, as this can lead to nutritional imbalances.

Spaying or neutering your Rhodesian is one of the best things you can do for their health and well-being. It decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies.

Spaying or neutering involves surgically removing the ovaries and usually the uterus in females, and the testicles in males. This surgery gives your veterinarian a chance to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop, such as hip problems or puppy teeth that need to be extracted.

Routine blood testing prior to surgery helps identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk.

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To keep your Rhodesian Ridgeback happy and healthy, it's essential to watch her diet and ensure she gets plenty of exercise. Regularly brush her teeth and coat, and call a pet emergency hospital if something seems unusual.

Supervise your pet as you would a toddler, keeping doors closed and picking up after yourself. This will keep her out of trouble and away from objects she shouldn't put in her mouth.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks have low grooming needs, requiring only a weekly coat brushing. They generally have good teeth, which can be kept perfect by brushing them at least twice a week.

Cleaning your dog's ears weekly, even as a puppy, is crucial. Don't worry, you'll learn how to do it from your veterinarian.

Your Rhodesian Ridgeback is a smart dog with lots of energy, so keep her mind and body active to prevent boredom. A high prey drive means she needs to be leash walked and have a sturdy fence.

To keep your dog's diet consistent, avoid giving her people food. Instead, feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age.

Here's a summary of your Rhodesian Ridgeback's care routine:

If you notice any of the following signs in your Rhodesian Ridgeback, seek medical care immediately. Scratching or shaking the head, tender ears, or ear discharge can be a sign of a serious issue.

Inability or straining to urinate, or discolored urine, are also emergencies that require immediate attention. Cloudiness, redness, itching, or any other abnormality involving the eyes should be checked by a vet right away.

Bruises easily or bleeds a lot from a small wound? That's a red flag. Dragging the hind toes and hind limb weakness are also signs that something's amiss.

General reluctance to run or play can be a sign of a health issue. Leg stiffness, reluctance to rise, sit, use stairs, jump, or "bunny hopping" are all warning signs that your Rhodesian Ridgeback needs to see a vet.

Here are some emergency signs to watch out for in your Rhodesian Ridgeback: