Things to Consider When Choosing a Puppy
The act of choosing a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy begins long before the litter is born, and each potential puppy buyer should do their own research to ensure that a large and sensitive hound is for them.
"Once you own a Ridgeback, you'll never be satisfied with anything less" Major T.C. Hawley
Our page titled “What is a Rhodesian Ridgeback?” has a wealth of information including the origins of the breed, lifestyle opportunities with a RR and introducing a Rhodesian Ridgeback into family life.
Our Health page provides in depth information about what to expect from a healthy Rhodesian Ridgeback and any health conditions associated with the breed. The page also informs of genetic conditions such as dermoid sinus and the importance of checking your puppy from birth.
Join the Rhodesian Ridgeback community by looking up our club Facebook page. There are lots of discussions, information, calendar events and much, much more!
You might also like to visit some shows, which now run virtually throughout the year and all around the country. They are a good place to meet up with the breeders and see whose dogs you may like. Many breeders now have excellent websites with a lot of information on their dogs and their breeding. Our Show Calendar will help guide you to Club and General Championship Shows in your area.
Puppy Coordinator
Should you decide that a Ridgeback is right for you M&NRRC has a dedicated Puppy Coordinator, Alison Wigglesworth. Find out more about Alison here.
Alison will be delighted to help you in your search for your new family member. She keeps a list of responsible breeders with litter plans or available puppies and can help match you with a breeder. You can contact Alison at puppycoordinator@ridgebacks.org.uk or by phone at 01924 840038.
Click here to read some questions you should ask the breeder when you visit the litter.
Here is a visual guide to help you decide if the breeder is right for you.
A word of caution to puppy buyers
It has come to the notice of the Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed Clubs that some unscrupulous breeders are passing off Rhodesian Ridgebacks of incorrect colours, as “rare” – please be careful. The correct colours allowed by the breed standard, as defined by The Kennel Club, are Light Wheaten to Red Wheaten and not colours such as black and tan, mahogany or brindle. Occasionally, due to recessive genes, silver/grey, blue, black & tan or brindle coloured puppies are born. They should never be shown, never be used in a breeding programme and should be registered as “non-standard” colours. Their purchase price should reflect this.
Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies
So, you've confirmed that your home and lifestyle are suited to owning a Rhodesian Ridgeback. Contact our Puppy Co-ordinator for information of reputable breeders and news of any recently born litters.
