Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog is one of the only three breeds of dogs that have a ridge of hair that runs along its back in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. Originating in Vietnam, this medium size hunting breed is considered by some as an off shoot of other ridge back dogs, namely Rhodesian Ridgeback and Thai Ridgeback. Some believe that all ridgeback dogs have originated from same basic pariah stock common to both Asia and Africa. Indeed, much sea traffic passed Phu Quoc in historical times and Phu Quoc dogs may have been transported from Thailand to Southern Africa although it has not been proven scientifically or otherwise and this breed is continued to be considered a Vietnamese dog breed. The dog stands about 21 inches and weighs between 44-55 lbs.

This dog has a typical pariah dog appearance with small head, long muzzle and thin erect ears. Nose is black. Almond shaped medium size eyes have dark brown colour. Long and lean neck is slightly arched. This medium size dog has level back, broad and well developed loin and deep chest with well sprung ribs. The dog's tapering belly, straight legs and webbed toes allow it to swim and run exceedingly well. Its most distinguishing features remain the unique whorl or ridge on the back, together with short thin hair. When the dog is excited, the whorls become erect, making the dog look brave and strong. Though, the dog was found in four main colours in old days which included spotted, black, yellow, and striped, todays' Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog comes in many different colours.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC or any other major kennel club.

Color

Four main colours or patterns are common for this breed which include spotted, black, yellow and striped.

Coat

Coat of Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog is hard, short and dense. Ridge is formed by the hair growing in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat in the back of the dog. Colour of the hair on the ridge normally darker than the rest that highly remarks the ridge on the back. Form of the ridge is variance, but should be symmetrically through the spine. The ridge has the width not exceed the width of the back and the length at least a half of the back. The symmetric crowns normally located on the top of the ridge. Other crowns on the ridge are accepted if they are symmetric through the spine.

Personality

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog is noted for fierce loyalty, protective nature and exceptional hunting skills. This fearless dog will bravely take on any threat to protect its family and home. It is a very friendly dog that does not make a good guard dog as it is not only friendly to its family but also very trusting with strangers. It is a loving and naturally obedient breed that will thrive on dependable human relationship. It is also noted for high intelligence levels and willingness to learn. This loving breed gets along well with children, showing loving and affectionate nature and being kind and gentle to them. It also is friendly towards other dogs and pets, specially with early age socialization. This dog may not be a good guard dog but its impressive appearance works as a natural deterrent for intruders. As a hunting companion, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog is very fast, agile, tenacious and hard working breed that loves its job. It can run and swim faster with its athletic body, strong legs and webbed feet than most other dog breeds. On the whole, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog makes an excellent family pet and companion dog.

Care

This is a short coated breed that requires minimal grooming needs. Weekly brushing of the coat will suffice to keep it in top condition. Bathe only when necessary. These dogs require large open spaces to let off their energy. If under exercised, they may become destructive. This breed can also suffer from separation anxiety if not given proper attention.

Training

With its docile and eager to please nature, willingness to learn and high levels of intelligence, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog is among the more easily trainable dog breeds. It will learn to respond to basic commands very quickly. These dogs enjoy learning and pleasing their owners, and can be taught to perform almost any task its trainer is willing to take the time to teach it.

Activity

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog is not for inactive or lazy owners nor it is suitable for apartment dwellers. The reason is one. This is a highly energetic dog that will require lots of physical stimulation to be happy and fit. The dog needs atleast a large yard where it can roam, run and play as it likes. Daily walking is a must.