Rhodesian Ridgeback Health Issues: An In-Depth Look

As a lifelong dog lover and veterinarian, I‘ve had the pleasure of caring for many magnificent Rhodesian Ridgebacks over the years. With their proud stature, sleek athleticism, and deeply devoted personalities, it‘s no wonder this ancient African breed has captured the hearts of so many.

But as much as we may wish our beloved companions could live forever, the reality is that all dogs are prone to certain health issues – and Ridgebacks are no exception. By taking an honest look at the breed‘s most common ailments, I hope to equip current and prospective owners with the knowledge they need to help their dogs live the healthiest, happiest lives possible.

Understanding the Ridgeback‘s Unique Heritage

To grasp why Rhodesian Ridgebacks are predisposed to certain conditions, it helps to understand a bit about their ancestry. Developed in southern Africa in the 1800s, these fearless hunters are a mix of native ridged Khoikhoi dogs and European breeds like Greyhounds, Mastiffs, Great Danes, and Bloodhounds. Ridgebacks had to be tough enough to face down lions, yet fast enough to keep up with horses on the hunt.

Today‘s Ridgebacks still boast the athleticism and imposing size of their forebears, with males standing up to 27 inches tall and weighing up to 85 pounds, and females being slightly smaller. While they no longer earn their keep on African hunting expeditions, those impressive physical traits make Ridgebacks more susceptible to orthopedic problems.

Hip and Elbow Dysplasia

Like other large breeds, Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a relatively high incidence of hip and elbow dysplasia. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OFA) reports that 20.2% of Ridgebacks have abnormal hips, and 16.1% have dysplastic elbows.

These developmental malformations occur when the ball and socket of the hip or elbow joint don‘t fit together smoothly, causing painful grinding and eventual arthritis. Genetics are the biggest factor, with puppies of dysplastic parents having a much higher risk of inheriting the condition.

Responsible breeders combat this by having their dogs‘ joints x-rayed and rated by the OFA prior to breeding. Only dogs with hips and elbows scored Good or Excellent should be bred. As a puppy buyer, make sure to ask for proof of this testing.

If your Ridgeback does develop dysplasia, there are many options to improve their comfort and mobility:

• Maintaining a lean weight and avoiding excessive exercise during the growth phase
• Low-impact activities like swimming and walking on soft surfaces
• Physical therapy to build muscle tone and flexibility
• Acupuncture and chiropractic adjustments to reduce pain and inflammation
• Joint supplements containing glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids
• NSAIDs and other pain control medications
• Surgical procedures like JPS (juvenile pubic symphysiodesis), TPO (triple pelvic osteotomy), or THR (total hip replacement) in severe cases

Dermoid Sinus

A dermoid sinus is a congenital defect seen almost exclusively in Ridgebacks, with 8-10% of puppies being affected. These narrow tubular indentations in the skin along the spine or ridge are prone to infection and can extend deep into the muscles or even the spinal canal, leading to meningitis and other neurological problems.

Most dermoid sinuses are identified when puppies are just a few days old. Reputable breeders have each puppy carefully checked by their vet, and many feel the sinus before the pup even makes it to the exam table. The sooner the abnormal tissue is surgically removed, the better the outlook.

Researchers believe dermoid sinuses are linked to the ridge itself. In a 2013 study of over 700 Ridgebacks in the UK, dermoid sinuses had a higher incidence in dogs with more pronounced ridges. Breeding only dogs with "perfect" ridges (symmetrical with two matching crowns) appears to reduce the risk.

Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid gland, is the most common hormonal disorder in dogs – and our Ridgeback friends are especially prone. A 2012 study in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that 30% of Ridgebacks had thyroid hormone levels below normal.

The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, so common signs of hypothyroidism include:

• Unexplained weight gain
• Low energy and exercise intolerance
• Poor coat quality with hair loss, dullness, and dryness
• Recurring skin and ear infections

Luckily, this condition is easily managed with a daily thyroid supplement. Most dogs experience a dramatic improvement in symptoms within a few weeks of starting medication.

The majority of hypothyroidism cases are caused by either lymphocytic thyroiditis (autoimmune disease that attacks and destroys the gland) or idiopathic atrophy (degeneration of the gland tissue for unknown reasons). Both of these processes have a hereditary component, so affected dogs should not be bred.

Eye Problems

While Ridgebacks have generally healthy eyes compared to some breeds, there are a few issues to watch for:

• Ectropion is a drooping of the lower eyelid that exposes the delicate conjunctival tissue, leading to irritation, redness, and discharge. Many Ridgebacks have a slight ectropion that doesn‘t impact the eye, but severe cases require surgical correction.
• Cataracts cause a cloudy, opaque appearance to the lens and can lead to blindness if not removed. Cataracts that develop rapidly in young dogs (juvenile cataracts) or both eyes simultaneously are often hereditary.
• Distichiasis and ectopic cilia are conditions where eyelashes grow in abnormal locations, rubbing on the cornea. Surgical removal is usually curative.
• Persistent pupillary membranes (PPMs) are strands of fetal tissue that fail to reabsorb by 5 weeks of age. Most cases do not affect vision, but severe PPMs can cause cataracts or corneal opacities.

Responsible breeders test all breeding stock annually with the Canine Eye Registration Foundation (CERF) and the OFA to ensure they are not passing on eye problems to the next generation.

Cardiac Issues

Heart problems are not exceedingly common in Ridgebacks, but the breed has been diagnosed with certain conditions:

• Aortic stenosis is a narrowing of the aortic valve that forces the heart to work harder to pump blood to the body. Most affected dogs have a heart murmur that can be heard during a veterinary exam.
• Dilated cardiomyopathy causes the heart muscle to become weak and flabby, impairing its ability to effectively pump blood. Giant breeds are most at risk.
• Atrial septal defect (hole in the heart) is a congenital malformation that allows blood to flow between the right and left chambers of the heart, leading to an overload of the lungs.

The best way to catch cardiac issues early is to have your vet listen carefully to your dog‘s heart at each check-up. Additional diagnostics like x-rays and echocardiograms can determine the severity of the problem and guide treatment.

Bloat

Bloat, or gastric dilatation and volvulus (GDV), is every big dog owner‘s worst nightmare. When the stomach fills with air and twists on itself, cutting off circulation, a dog can die within hours without emergency surgery.

Although any dog can bloat, large, deep-chested breeds like Ridgebacks are at the highest risk. Other factors that increase the chances of GDV include:

• Eating one large meal per day
• Rapidly gulping food or water
• Intense exercise right before or after meals
• Having a fearful or anxious temperament
• Being older than 7 years of age
• Having a close relative that has bloated

To prevent bloat in your Ridgeback:

• Feed 2-3 smaller meals per day
• Use a slow feeder bowl or puzzle toy to decelerate eating
• Avoid exercise for at least an hour before and after meals
• Consider a prophylactic gastropexy surgery, which tacks the stomach to the abdominal wall to prevent twisting

Degenerative Myelopathy

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) is a progressive neurologic disease that causes weakness and paralysis in the hind legs. It is most common in German Shepherds, but Ridgebacks are the 6th most affected breed according to the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals.

DM occurs when the spinal cord nerves begin to degenerate later in life, usually around 8-9 years old. The first signs are scuffing or dragging the hind paws, which progresses to wobbliness and difficulty rising. Most dogs become paraplegic within 6-12 months and must be euthanized.

Researchers have discovered two mutations in the SOD1 gene that are linked to the development of DM. A simple cheek swab test can reveal if a Ridgeback is Clear, a Carrier, or At-Risk of developing the disease. Sadly, there is no effective treatment, so the only way to prevent heartbreak is to remove affected dogs and carriers from the breeding pool.

Mast Cell Tumors

Mast cell tumors are a common type of skin cancer in dogs, and Ridgebacks have a 6% lifetime risk of developing one – much higher than the average across all breeds. These tumors arise from immune system mast cells and can be either benign or malignant.

Mast cell tumors usually appear as raised, hairless, reddish lumps on the skin that may fluctuate in size. They most commonly pop up on the limbs, lower abdomen, and chest. If you notice any new or unusual growths on your Ridgeback, have your vet check them right away – the earlier they are removed, the better the prognosis.

Boxers, Pugs, Rhodesian Ridgebacks, Boston Terriers, Pit Bulls, and Labrador Retrievers are genetically more prone to mast cell tumors than other breeds. While the exact genes have not been identified, this predisposition highlights the importance of regular at-home lump checks and veterinary exams.

Other Health Concerns

A few other health issues that have been reported in Rhodesian Ridgebacks include:

• Megaesophagus is a disorder where the esophagus (tube connecting mouth to stomach) becomes enlarged and loses motility, making it difficult for a dog to swallow and keep food down. Megaesophagus can be congenital or acquired and is managed with a special upright feeding chair called a Bailey chair.

• Epilepsy is a neurological condition that causes recurrent seizures. The majority of Ridgeback epilepsy appears to be genetic, with an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Dogs that begin seizuring before 5 years of age with no underlying cause are generally diagnosed with idiopathic (genetic) epilepsy.

• Cervical vertebral instability (Wobbler Syndrome) is a neurological disorder affecting the neck vertebrae, leading to an unsteady gait and potential paralysis. It is caused by a malformation of the vertebrae and is more common in large and giant breeds like Ridgebacks, Great Danes, and Mastiffs.

Choosing a Healthy Ridgeback

With all of these potential health issues, you may be wondering – is a Rhodesian Ridgeback really the right breed for me? While it‘s true that this is not the dog for everyone, most Ridgebacks live long, healthy, active lives with minimal problems. The key is to set yourself up for success by:

1. Adopting from a responsible breeder who does extensive health testing on all breeding dogs, including hips, elbows, eyes, hearts, and DM genetic tests. Ask to see proof of this testing and verification that the breeder is following the Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States (RRCUS) code of ethics.

2. Enrolling your puppy in pet insurance as soon as possible to help cover unexpected veterinary expenses. Look for a plan that covers hereditary conditions common in the breed.

3. Feeding your Ridgeback a high-quality, balanced diet that meets AAFCO standards for all life stages. Avoid overdoing it on calories and keep your dog lean to reduce stress on the joints. A 2018 study in the Journal of Veterinary Internal Medicine found that dogs with an ideal body condition score lived an average of 2.5 years longer than overweight dogs!

4. Providing your Ridgeback with plenty of daily exercise and mental stimulation. These active, intelligent dogs thrive with long walks, hikes, swims, agility training, lure coursing, nose work, and other engaging activities. A well-exercised Ridgeback is a happy Ridgeback.

5. Keeping up with preventive care like vaccines, parasite control, dental cleanings, and regular check-ups. This allows your vet to catch any developing problems early, when they are most treatable.

6. Learning what‘s normal for your individual dog so you can recognize when something is "off." Keep an eye out for any lumps and bumps, lameness, changes in eating or bathroom habits, and other signs that warrant a trip to the vet.

Living with a Rhodesian Ridgeback

Despite the potential for health challenges, Rhodesian Ridgebacks make exceptional companions for active, experienced dog owners. They are affectionate and devoted to their families, wonderfully gentle and patient with children, and have just enough stubborn hound independence to keep life interesting.

I‘ve treated many Ridgebacks over the years that have overcome the odds and thrived, thanks to dedicated owners and advances in veterinary medicine:

• Duke, a handsome red wheaten boy diagnosed with hip dysplasia as a puppy, who went on to become a champion dock diver and lived to 14 after a hip replacement.
• Zuri, a 7-year-old therapy dog who visited children‘s hospitals and comforted victims of domestic abuse, all while battling lymphoma into remission.
• Kai, a once fearful rescue with severe skin allergies, who blossomed into a confident, trail-blazing adventure dog with the help of immunotherapy treatments.

The bond between a Ridgeback and their person is truly special – a partnership built on mutual respect, unbridled joy in living life to the fullest, and the security of always having a noble guardian by your side.

Yes, Rhodesian Ridgebacks may be predisposed to certain health conditions, but arming yourself with knowledge and taking proactive steps to support your dog‘s wellbeing can make all the difference. And in the end, the rewards of sharing your life with one of these majestic, lionhearted hounds is well worth it.