| Height | 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female) [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 85 pounds (male), 70 pounds (female) [1] |
| Life expectancy | 10–12+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Dignified / Affectionate / Even-Tempered [1] |
| AKC group | Hound Group [1] |
| Origin | Zambia/Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 41 of 202 [2] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are strong, athletic dogs who require a moderate amount of exercise, and they can adapt well to various living situations when provided with daily outings such as long walks and play sessions with their owner. They love to run, and they need physical activity to help keep them healthy and happy. The breed can also exercise mind and body by participating in canine sports like tracking, agility, and other activities that dog and owner can enjoy together. [1]
Grooming
The Rhodesian Ridgeback does shed somewhat, but overall his grooming needs are minimal. A regular weekly brushing will help to remove loose hair and keep the coat glossy, and an occasional bath will help to keep the Ridgeback clean and looking his best. The nails should be trimmed often if not worn down naturally, as overly long nails can cause the dog discomfort and problems walking and running. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are generally healthy dogs, and responsible breeders screen their dogs for hip and elbow dysplasia, thyroid function and eye anomalies. Dermoid sinus is a tube-like opening in the skin that is occasionally present at birth; an experienced breeder can palpate, or feel, for this defect. [1]
AKC-recommended health tests for breeding dogs: Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC first recognized the Rhodesian Ridgeback in 1955. [1]
- It ranked No. 41 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list, compared with No. 40 in 2015. [2]
- Its nickname is the “RR.” [1]
- The AKC lists Zambia/Zimbabwe (formerly Rhodesia) as the breed's country of origin. [1]
- The AKC breed page lists 2 recommended health screenings for breeding dogs, such as Hip Evaluation, Elbow Evaluation. [1]
Good fit for
- ✅ Families with young children (AKC good-with-kids rating 5/5)
- ✅ First-time trainers who want an eager learner (AKC trainability 4/5)
Common questions
How long do Rhodesian Ridgebacks live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 10-12 years.
How big does a Rhodesian Ridgeback get?
AKC breed information lists height 25-27 inches (male), 24-26 inches (female) and weight 85 pounds (male), 70 pounds (female).
How much are vet bills for a Rhodesian Ridgeback?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Rhodesian Ridgeback, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.