How to Choose a Rhodesian Ridgeback for Breeding

Breeding Rhodesian Ridgebacks is a serious undertaking, and takes a lot of dedication, deliberation and responsibility on the part of the breeder. Health, genetics, pedigrees and temperament are just a few of the issues to consider when picking a Ridgeback puppy for breeding. Make sure to do plenty of research before attempting to breed and raise a litter of Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Study the breed. In order to breed healthy and high quality Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies, you must first be very familiar with the breed. Learn the breed standard and correct structure, and know what the major faults are as well. Dog shows are a great place to see a variety of Ridgebacks, and you can also talk to breeders there and learn more about the breed.

2. Find a reputable breeder. Picking a breeder may be the most important decision you make when it comes to breeding your Ridgeback. Visit the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States' website to find responsible and ethical breeders in your area. Make sure to talk to several breeders on the phone and visit their dogs. Look for dogs that live indoors, are clean, and have nice structure and wonderful personalities. Remember, the breeder's dogs will be passing on traits to your puppy. Look for breeders that have champion dogs. Also, ask for references from other puppy owners.

3. Health is key. Ask to see health test papers on both the sire and dam. Reputable Rhodesian Ridgeback breeders should have test results from a board-certified veterinary specialist for hips and elbows at the bare minimum, and ideally should also test the eyes, thyroid, and heart. Breeders who have not tested their breeding stock for anything should be eliminated from your list. Many of these diseases are genetic, and can be passed on to your puppy. Also, ask the breeder about any possible health concerns in the pedigree. That way, when it comes time to breed your puppy, you can choose a breeding partner whose pedigree is free of these same issues.

4. Have a good eye. Pick a puppy that exemplifies the breed standard. Rhodesian Ridgebacks used for breeding should have many nice qualities, and few qualities that need improvement. Do not pick a puppy or dog for breeding with major faults, especially in either the front or rear assembly. Study the breed standard and learn from other breeders before attempting to pick a Ridgeback puppy for breeding. Also, a good temperament is key.

5. Your Rhodesian Ridgeback should be health tested and ideally a conformation champion before breeding. The Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States' strongly recommends that all Ridgebacks be tested for hips, elbows, thyroid and eyes (CERF), prior to breeding. Also, female Ridgebacks should be at least two years old before breeding.

6. Know your pedigrees. You should become very familiar with your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy's five generation pedigree. When picking a suitable mate, make sure the pedigrees match up well. Don't double up on structural and health issues. Make sure the mate you choose for your Ridgeback has the strengths your dog lacks.

Tips & Warnings

• Never breed your Rhodesian Ridgeback frivilously, or with the expectation of making extra money. If you are putting titles on your dog and performing the necessary health testing, you can expect to break even at the most.
• Breeding is a lot of hard, sleepless work. Make sure you understand Rhodesian Ridgebacks and are very familiar with breeding practices before taking the next step.
• Temperament and health are imperative. Never breed a Ridgeback with a bad temperament or with serious health issues.

Resources

• The Rhodeisan Ridgeback Club of the United States
• The American Kennel Club