Thai Ridgeback
Breed Rating
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| Watch/guard dog: |
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| Tendency to bark: |
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| Aggressiveness: | |
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| Tendency to bark: | |
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Breed Attributes
General
Breed group: Non-Sporting Type: Pure Breed Talent: Hunting, Watchdog
Physical
Size: Medium Weight: 51-75 lbs Fur length: Short Ears: Pointy Fur type: Straight Fur Color: Black, Dark Brown / Chocolate, Gray / Salt & Pepper, Light Brown / Golden
ATTRIBUTES
Life Expectancy: 12-14 years Rarity: Uncommon Availability: Hard to find Climate: Good for every climate.
Breed Details
General
The Thai Ridgeback is one of only three dog breeds that has a ridge of hair that runs along its back in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. The other two are Rhodesian Ridgeback and Phu Quoc Ridgeback. Also known as Mah Thai Lang ahn, the Thai Ridgeback is an ancient breed of dog originating in Thailand. It is considered as one of the oldest purebred dog breeds in the world.
This breed is kept pure and mostly undomesticated due to little interaction with humans. Until recently, the Thai Ridgeback was unknown outside eastern Thailand but is gradually gaining attention around the world. This medium size dog makes a loyal and protective family dog but it is known to be aggressive towards strangers and other dogs.
This Pariah type dog stands between 22-24 inches and weighs around 51-75 lbs. It comes with a wedge-shaped head, flat and broad skull and moderate length muzzle that tapers towards black nose. Medium size almond shaped eyes are dark brown or amber in blue coloured dogs. Medium size, erect ears are set at the outer edges of the skull. Moderately long, strong and well muscled neck blends into slopping shoulders. The muscular and slightly elongated body of this breed has strong and level back, broad and muscular loin, wide chest with moderately sprung ribs and slightly tucked-up belly. Soft and fine skin is tight around the body and has short and smooth coat with a definite ridge of hair that run in opposite direction to the rest of the coat. There are various shapes and lengths of the ridges, but they must be symmetrical on either side of the backbone, and be within the width of the back. This breed comes in solid colours that include red, black, blue and very light fawn.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by AKC(FSS), UKC, FCI and many other major kennel clubs.
Color
The Thai Ridgeback is found in solid colors like red, blue, black and light fawn. Red coloured Thai Ridgebacks can have a black mask.
Coat
The very short and smooth coat of this breed has a unique ridge of hair that run in opposite direction to the rest of the coat.
Personality
The Thai Ridgeback is protective and independent breed of dog which when properly socialized and trained, can be turned into a very loving and affectionate family pet. This dog is very intelligent but is known to be aggressive towards other dogs and strangers. It is best suited in the hands of an experienced and strong owner who can guide this breed with a firm hand. This very active breed is an excellent jumper and climber. These dogs are very devoted to their master and family. They have medium to high energy levels. This dog may lounge all day long with activity periods occurring in sporadic bursts. Training and socialization is of utmost importance for this breed. A well socialized and trained Thai Ridgeback will make an excellent family pet.
Care
Short coat of this breed requires minimal grooming. Combing and brushing the coat once in a while will be sufficient to keep it clean and in top condition. This dog can live in an apartment provided the owner is ready to take the dog for daily long walks.
Training
Training a Thai Ridgeback may not be easy as the breed has stubborn streak and it is independent minded. An experienced handler, using positive and firm training routines will be able to mold this dog into a well rounded family pet.
Activity
Activity levels are moderate to high for this breed. A long daily walk is a must but the dog should also be allowed to play and run freely to keep itself fit.
