Thai Ridgeback
The Thai Ridgeback is an ancient breed that originated in eastern Thailand, primarily used as a hunting dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. The breed's most distinctive characteristic, a ridge of hair that grows opposite to the rest of their coat along their back, gave them their name. This feature is shared with only two other breeds: the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Phu Quoc Ridgeback. The Thai Ridgeback's history is relatively unknown, but archaeological evidence suggests that they have existed for thousands of years. The breed remained isolated for most of its history in the Thai region, which has kept it relatively pure from crossbreeding.
- Origin
- Thailand
- Alternate Names
- Mah Thai Lang Ahn (translates roughly to "Thai Dog with Ridge")
- Life Expectancy
- 12-13 years
- Average Male Height
- 20-24 inches
- Average Female Height
- 20-24 inches
- Average Male Weight
- 35-75 pounds
- Average Female Weight
- 35-75 pounds
- Coat Length
- Short
- Coat Type
- Smooth
- Coat Colors
- Black, Blue, Red, Yellow
- Coat Pattern
- None
Genetic Predispositions and Health
Thai Ridgebacks are generally healthy dogs, though hip dysplasia and dermoid sinus cysts can occur in this breed. As for all breeds, genetic screening for hereditary conditions is recommended to assist veterinarians with diagnosis and proactive care, as well as help breeders identify affected and carrier dogs. As a Sighthound breed, they are known to be more sensitive to barbiturate anesthetics. Thiopental, or any other thiobarbiturate, should not be used on these dogs.
Personality and Behavior
Thai Ridgebacks are known for their intelligence, independence, and athletic ability. They can be quite aloof and reserved, especially with strangers, but they are generally loyal and protective of their families. This breed has an innate ability to guard and hunt, and because of this may be aggressive to protect their owner if they are not properly trained. They require ample exercise and mental stimulation, as they can become bored and destructive if their energy isn't positively channeled.
Fun Facts
Thai Ridgebacks are skilled climbers and jumpers. Their agility makes them excellent at catching small game, and they've been known to climb fences that would keep in other breeds.
Their ridge of hair can form different patterns, the most common of which are the violin and the arrow.
Thai Ridgebacks have a distinctive 'prancing' gait, often described as a trot or a pace, in which the legs on one side move together, then the legs on the other side.
The Thai Ridgeback was relatively unknown outside of Thailand until the 1990s, and even today, they are considered a rare breed.
References
https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/c_dg_thai_ridgeback
https://www.ukcdogs.com/thai-ridgeback
https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/thai-ridgeback/
https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/THAI-RIDGEBACK-DOG-338.html