Overview
The Thai Ridgeback is one of three ridged breeds in the world and the most primitive of them. It was a hunting, guarding and cart-escort dog in the Thai countryside for centuries and only reached the West in the 1990s. It is a medium, well-muscled dog with a short coat in blue, red, black or fawn, a wedge head and a wrinkled brow.
Owners describe the breed as cat-like: clean, agile, aloof with strangers and intensely loyal to its own people. It is clever, strong-willed and very good at escaping. For a walker it is a dog to respect and manage rather than one to boss about.
Exercise and walking needs
Around an hour and a half a day of exercise suits a fit adult, including time to sprint and jump in a secure area. Thai Ridgebacks are powerful athletes and enjoy running, but they are also happy to lounge once the walk is done.
Check fence heights before letting one off: this breed jumps high from a standing start and will go over a fence that holds most dogs. It feels the cold, so shorten winter walks or use a coat.
On the walk
- Prey drive: Cats, squirrels and small dogs can trigger a fast, silent chase. Keep the lead on in the open and watch what the dog is watching.
- Recall: A primitive breed listens when it wants to. Recall is usually good with the owner and much weaker with anyone else.
- Other dogs: Reserved and selective. Many prefer to ignore strange dogs and will defend themselves firmly if pushed. Walk singly or with known friends.
- Strangers: Aloof rather than aggressive in a well-raised dog, but it does not want to be petted by passers-by. Keep people at arm's length.
Tips for professional walkers
- Use a harness that cannot be backed out of, with the lead clipped to the dog and a collar as backup.
- Hire a secure field for off-lead running rather than trusting a public park.
- Pack a coat in winter; the short coat and lean body hold no warmth.
- Start each walk with calm lead work so the dog learns that you set the pace.
What to ask the owner
- Has the dog ever jumped a fence or escaped, and what height has held it?
- How does it react to strangers and to other dogs, and what should I avoid on early walks?
- Does the dog have a dermoid sinus history or any skin issues along the ridge I should watch?