Almost all dogs have a coat that grows in one direction. However, there are a few special dog breeds that have a ridge that runs along their back and grows in the opposite direction to the rest of their coat. Here’s your guide to the ridgeback dog breeds.
Thai Ridgeback
The Thai Ridgeback is considered to be one of the ancient dog breeds. It’s known for its excellent guarding abilities and agility. The breed has a very short coat and sheds little making it a suitable pet for allergy sufferers. It was developed in eastern Thailand and is still quite rare outside its native country.
While the exact breed history is unknown, it’s strongly believed to be an ancestor of the now-extinct Funan Ridgeback Dog. Thai Ridgebacks may have one of eight distinct ridge patterns. Generally, the wider the ridge, the more valuable the dog is considered.
Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog
The Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog is native to the island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam. It looks similar in appearance to the Thai Ridgeback, although it’s smaller in size. This breed is also believed to have originated from the Funan Ridgeback Dog.
It is a natural climber and is actually known for its ability to climb trees. The ridge on the back of purebred Phu Quoc is in a sword shape. Another distinct characteristic of this ridgeback dog breed is its webbed feet, a trait that allows it to swim more efficiently than other dogs.
Rhodesian Ridgeback
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large breed that was developed in southern Africa by the European settlers. It was used as an all-around hunting and guard dog. However, its specialty was hunting the African lion, an incredibly dangerous task.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback was created by crossing the settler’s mastiffs, hounds, and other European breeds with the native Khoikhoi dog, which had a ridged back. The Khoikhoi dog not only gave the breed its distinct ridge but helped make it more hardy and able to withstand the rugged African environment.
While some people believe it’s possible that dog breeds with a ridge could have developed separately in Africa and Asia, to many it seems more likely that all three breeds are directly related. However, whether the first ancestors of these ridgeback dog breeds first appeared in Africa and then traveled to Asia via trade or from Asia to Africa is another mystery.
Start Shopping for Dog Supplies!
Dogs With Pointy Ears
Let’s face it, there’s something special about the look of pointy-eared dogs. Luckily there are many breeds that have this appealing physical characteristic. So here are some of the best dogs with pointy ears and what to know about them. Corgi Both types of Corgi, the...
Small Dogs With Big Ears
There are many reasons to own a small dog and there is a wide range of amazing breeds to choose from. Many people find the ones with big ears to be particularly adorable. So here are some of the top small dogs with big ears to help you find the canine you’re looking...
Big Dogs With Pointy Ears
One of the most amazing things about dogs is that they come in every shape, size, and color imaginable! If you're looking for a certain physical trait in a dog breed, you'll be sure to find several different breeds that fit the bill. Today, we're going to take a look...
Small Dogs With Pointy Ears
Dogs with pointy ears come in all shapes and sizes. And luckily for fans of smaller-sized pooches, there are plenty to pick from. So we’ve compiled a list of the top small dogs with pointy ears to help you find the perfect pet. Scottish Terrier Scotties are small and...
Are Bull Terriers Stubborn?
Are bull terriers stubborn? To ask such a question would be like asking if the Earth is round, or if the sun is bright. This breed of dog has a strong personality and that is what makes it rather unique. A stubborn bull terrier is also a smart bull terrier. It knows...
Bull Terriers Are Ugly
Some people think that Bull Terriers are ugly, and others think that their egg-shaped head makes them look cute. Whatever your opinion of how Bull Terriers look, an indisputable fact is that the smart Bull Terrier is unique and quite distinct. Why Are Bull Terriers So...
Are Bull Terriers Smart?
Are Bull Terriers smart? Ask anyone who has ever had a Bull Terrier this question, and the resounding and unanimous answer will be a yes. They will also tell you that they are intelligent, funny, energetic, and stubborn. For all these reasons first-time pet owners or...
Dog Breeds That Drool
Heat, thirst, and hunger are the three things that can cause just about any dog to drool. Yet there are certain breeds that slobber much more than others. So before you decide on what type of canine you’d like to purchase, you’ll want to check out the following list...
Low-Energy Dog Breeds
When choosing a pet it is critical that you pick a breed with an energy level that matches your own. For many people, a low-energy dog is the best fit for their lifestyle. If this sounds like you, you’ll want to check out the top low-energy dog breeds listed here....
Lazy Dog Breeds
Not everyone wants a high-energy pet. Many potential owners would actually prefer to have a dog that has a lot less energy. So here are some of the top lazy dog breeds you’ll want to consider that work well with a more laid-back lifestyle. Chow Chow The Chow Chow is...
Brindle Dog Breeds
Brindle is one of the most unique coat color patterns that is only found in certain dog breeds, and a few other animals as well. A brindle coat looks similar in appearance to tiger stripes, but not as bold. That’s because it has streaks of color that are different...
Harlequin Dog Breeds
The harlequin coat pattern is rare in the world of dogs. This unusual pattern is also eye incredibly eye-catching. The following are the only harlequin dog breeds out there. Great Dane The Great Dane is a German breed that was created to hunt wild boar and also served...
Black And Tan Dog Breeds
There are quite a few dog breeds that are black tan in color. But before you decide on one, you’ll want to learn a bit more about the many different types out there. So here are the basics of the top black and tan dog breeds. Rottweiler The Rottweiler is a German...
Small Black And Tan Dog Breeds
Black and tan is arguably one of the most impressive coat colors a dog can have. And quite a few breeds can be found in this eye-catching color. However, not everyone is looking for a large or even medium-sized pet. So here are some of the top small black and tan...
Black Dog Breeds
Let’s face it there are adorable dogs in every coat color. Yet for many people, a black pooch is the cutest of them all. So here are the top black dog breeds you’ll want to check out when considering a new pet. German Shepherd The German Shepherd comes in a handful of...
Red Dog Breeds
White Dog Breeds
Dog breeds come in a range of different colors. Many people consider white to be the most attractive coat color of all. And there are quite a few breeds that have an all-white or predominantly white coat. So here are some of the top white dog breeds you'll want to...
Wrinkly Dog Breeds
Whether big or small, old or young, dogs with wrinkles always look adorable. It’s no wonder that so many people want a wrinkly dog of their own. So here are some of the top wrinkly dog breeds you’ll want to learn more about. English Bulldog For many people, the...
Spotted Dog Breeds
Depending on the breed a dog’s coat may come in many different patterns. Yet there is always something special however about a coat with spots. So here are some of the top spotted dog breeds you’ll want to learn more about. Bluetick Coonhound The Bluetick Coonhound is...
Stubborn Small Dog Breeds
There are many reasons to choose a small dog. And luckily there are many fabulous breeds to choose from. Yet there are some that can be more headstrong than others. This doesn’t mean they are any less amazing, but it’s something you’ll want to take into consideration....