Origin: Thailand
Origin of Name: The Thai Ridgeback is a muscular, medium-sized pariah-type dog with a wedge-shaped head.
Size | Temperament | Shedding | Drooling | Monthly keeping cost | |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Medium | Zero High |
Negligible Hair Everywhere |
Zero Excess |
|
The Thai ridgeback is an old breed that can be seen in Thailand's archeological documents written about 360 years ago. It was mainly used for hunting in the eastern part of that country. People also used it to escort their trains and as a watch dog. It has maintained its original form for so many years due to poor transport system in the eastern part of Thailand; It was less likely to hybridize with other breeds. Today, the breed is still very rare outside Thailand.
Thai Ridgeback's coat is short, hard and straight, so brushing is required occasionally to remove loose hair. There may be a need to brush more often when it is shedding, which happens only once or twice a year. Due to the absence of undercoats, people with dog-dander allergies may find that ridgeback makes them less irritating than other breeds.
Apart from grooming regularly, taking occasional baths will keep your Thai ridgeback clean and it will look its best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your dog. Strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splits, and cracks. The ears should be examined regularly to avoid the formation of wax and debris, which may result in infection. The teeth should be brushed regularly.
Naturally protective and reserved with strangers, Thai ridgebacks will do best with proper socialization and training. Dog behavior requires an experienced owner / handler as this breed can be very independent.
Exercise options include playing time in the backyard, preferably fencing, or taking walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, such as hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolling on the floor, or teaching them new tricks. Some outdoor activities such as swimming, hiking, retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for spending energy. If you live in an apartment, even a short walk in the hallway can give your dog some exercise, especially during inclement weather. Training for dog sports such as agility, obedience and rally can also be a great way to give your dog exercise.
Thai Ridgebacks should perform well on high quality dog food, whether it is professionally manufactured or prepared at home with the supervision and approval of your vet. Any diet should be appropriate for the age of the dog (puppy, adult, or senior). Some dogs are at risk of being overweight, so watch your dog's calorie consumption and weight levels. Treatment training can be an important aid, but giving too much can lead to obesity. Know which human foods are safe for dogs and which are not. Contact your vet if you have any concerns about your dog's weight or diet. Clean, fresh water must be available at all times.
Hip dysplasia, though rare, can occur in the Thai Ridgeback. More common is the Dermoid Sinus Cyst. Some dogs may be faced with these health challenges in their lives, but the majority of Thai Ridgebacks are healthy dogs. Working with a responsible breeder, prospective owners can gain the education they need to learn about specific health concerns within the breed.