Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog Breed Information, Puppies & Breeders 

Are you considering getting a Phu Quoc Ridgeback as a pet? If so, you are in for a treat. This breed is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and athleticism. They are a rare breed, originating from the island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam. They have a distinctive ridge of hair on their back and are known for their hunting abilities. While they may not be the most common breed, they make a great pet for those who are active and willing to put in the time and effort to train them properly. In this article, we will explore the characteristics and care requirements of the Phu Quoc Ridgeback to help you decide if this is the right breed for you.

Breed Category: Hound
Country of Origin: Vietnam
Average Size:50-60 cm
Average Weight:18-25 kg
Average Life Span: 12-14 years
Grooming Requirements: Low
Exercise Requirements:High

History and Origin

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a rare breed of dog that originated in the Phu Quoc Island of Vietnam. This breed is known for its unique appearance, with a ridge of hair running along its back in the opposite direction of the rest of its coat. The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is also known for its loyalty, intelligence, and hunting abilities.

The history of the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is shrouded in mystery, with little known about its origins. However, it is believed that the breed has been around for centuries, with some experts suggesting that it may have been brought to the island by traders from Africa or India. Others believe that the breed may have been developed by the indigenous people of the island.

Despite its long history, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback was only recognized as a breed in the 1990s. Prior to this, the breed was largely unknown outside of Vietnam. However, with the help of dedicated breeders, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback has gained popularity in recent years, with many people now recognizing its unique qualities.

One of the most distinctive features of the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is its ridge of hair, which runs along its back in the opposite direction of the rest of its coat. This ridge is caused by a genetic mutation, and is present in other breeds such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback and Thai Ridgeback. However, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is unique in that it has a shorter, smoother coat than these other breeds.

In addition to its unique appearance, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is also known for its hunting abilities. This breed was originally used by the indigenous people of the island to hunt small game such as rats and snakes. Today, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is still used for hunting, but is also kept as a companion animal.

Despite its popularity, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is still a rare breed, with only a few hundred dogs in existence. This is partly due to the fact that the breed is only found on the island of Phu Quoc, and partly due to the fact that it is not yet recognized by major kennel clubs such as the American Kennel Club or the Kennel Club in the UK. However, with the help of dedicated breeders, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is

Size and Breed Category

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a medium-sized dog breed that originated from the island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam. They are known for their muscular build and athletic physique, with a height range of 46-56cm and a weight range of 15-20kg. Their coat is short and dense, with a distinctive ridge of hair that runs along their back in the opposite direction to the rest of their coat. This ridge is formed by a strip of hair that grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat, creating a unique and striking appearance. The Phu Quoc Ridgeback comes in a variety of colours, including black, brown, and brindle.

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is classified as a hound breed, known for their hunting abilities and strong sense of smell. They are intelligent and independent dogs, with a strong prey drive and a natural instinct to protect their family. They are loyal and affectionate towards their owners, but can be wary of strangers and other animals. The Phu Quoc Ridgeback requires regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy, and they thrive in an active household where they can be given plenty of opportunities to run and play. With the right training and socialisation, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback can make a wonderful companion for the right owner.

Fur Length and Colour

The fur of the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is typically short and dense, providing excellent protection against the tropical climate of its native Vietnam. The fur is also water-resistant, allowing the breed to swim and hunt in wet environments. The fur colour can vary from a light golden brown to a darker reddish-brown, with some individuals having black markings on their face and legs. The coat is easy to maintain and requires minimal grooming, making it a practical choice for owners who prefer low-maintenance pets.

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is known for its distinctive ridge of fur along its back, which grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. This ridge can vary in length and thickness, with some individuals having a more pronounced ridge than others. The fur on the ridge is typically longer than the rest of the coat, giving the breed a unique appearance. The fur on the tail is also longer and bushier than the rest of the body, adding to the breed’s distinctive look. Overall, the fur of the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is an important characteristic of the breed, providing both protection and a unique appearance.

Termperament and Trainability

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are known for their high energy and independent nature. They are a breed that requires a lot of exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. They are also known for being quite stubborn and can be difficult to train. However, with consistent and patient training, they can learn a variety of commands and tricks. It is important to establish yourself as the pack leader early on in their training to ensure they respect and listen to you. Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are not recommended for first-time dog owners or those who do not have the time and energy to devote to their training and exercise needs.

In terms of temperament, Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are loyal and protective of their families. They can be wary of strangers and may require socialization to prevent any aggressive behavior. They are also known for being quite vocal and will bark to alert their owners of any perceived threats. This can make them good watchdogs but may not be suitable for those who live in close proximity to neighbors. Overall, Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are a unique and challenging breed that require a dedicated owner who is willing to put in the time and effort to train and exercise them properly.

Known Health Conditions

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are a breed of dog that are known to be generally healthy. However, like all breeds, they are prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that Phu Quoc Ridgebacks face is hip dysplasia. This is a condition where the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. It can also lead to arthritis and mobility issues. To prevent hip dysplasia, it is important to ensure that Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are not over-exercised as puppies and that they maintain a healthy weight throughout their lives.

Another health condition that Phu Quoc Ridgebacks may face is ear infections. This is because they have long, floppy ears that can trap moisture and bacteria. If left untreated, ear infections can lead to hearing loss and other complications. To prevent ear infections, it is important to regularly clean and dry the ears, especially after swimming or bathing. It is also important to take the dog to the vet if any signs of an ear infection, such as redness, swelling, or discharge, are noticed.

Openness to Strangers

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are known for their friendly and welcoming nature towards strangers. They are a breed that is always eager to meet new people and make new friends. This trait makes them excellent companions for families with children or those who frequently have guests over. Despite their friendly nature, they are also very protective of their owners and will not hesitate to defend them if they feel threatened. This makes them an ideal choice for those who want a dog that is both friendly and protective.

In addition to their friendly nature, Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are also very intelligent and easy to train. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. This makes them an excellent choice for first-time dog owners or those who are looking for a dog that is easy to train. They are also very adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations, including apartments and small homes. Overall, Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are a great choice for those who want a friendly, intelligent, and easy-to-train dog that is also protective of their family.

Playfulness Level

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a highly playful dog breed that loves to engage in various activities. They are known for their high energy levels and their love for playtime. These dogs are always up for a game of fetch or a run around the park. They are also great at playing hide and seek and love to chase after toys. The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a great companion for families with children as they are always ready to play and have fun. They are also great with other dogs and enjoy socializing with their furry friends.

The playful nature of the Phu Quoc Ridgeback makes them a great addition to any household. They are always eager to please their owners and love to be involved in family activities. These dogs are highly intelligent and can be trained to participate in various sports such as agility and flyball. They are also great at learning new tricks and love to show off their skills. The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a fun-loving breed that brings joy and laughter to any home.

Suitability as a Pet for Children

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks have a muscular and athletic build, making them an ideal companion for active children. Their short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming, making them a low-maintenance pet for busy families. They are known for their loyalty and affection towards their owners, and their intelligence makes them easy to train. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require socialization from an early age. Overall, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback can make a great pet for children who are willing to provide them with the exercise and attention they need.

Exercise Needs

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are highly active dogs that require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a breed that was originally developed for hunting and guarding purposes, they have a natural inclination towards physical activity and require regular exercise to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. A daily exercise routine that includes long walks, runs, and playtime is essential for this breed. Additionally, they enjoy participating in activities such as agility training, obedience training, and tracking exercises, which can help to keep them mentally stimulated and engaged. It is important to note that Phu Quoc Ridgebacks have a high energy level and require a significant amount of physical activity to remain healthy and happy.

In addition to physical exercise, Phu Quoc Ridgebacks also require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. This breed is highly intelligent and enjoys learning new things, making them an excellent candidate for obedience training and other activities that require mental focus. Providing them with puzzle toys, interactive games, and other mentally stimulating activities can help to keep them engaged and prevent destructive behavior. It is also important to provide them with plenty of socialization opportunities, as they can become anxious and destructive if left alone for extended periods. Overall, Phu Quoc Ridgebacks require a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation to remain healthy and happy, making them an excellent choice for active families who are willing to provide them with the attention and care they need.

Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks have been known to coexist peacefully with other animals in the household. They are not typically aggressive towards other pets and can even form close bonds with them. However, as with any dog, proper socialization and training is important to ensure a harmonious living environment. It is also important to supervise interactions between pets to prevent any potential conflicts.

Housing Requirements

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks require a spacious living environment that allows them to move around freely. They need a minimum of 30 square meters of living space, with a ceiling height of at least 2.5 meters. The living space should be well-ventilated and have access to natural light. The flooring should be non-slip and easy to clean. A separate sleeping area should be provided, with a comfortable bed and bedding. The sleeping area should be located away from the living area to provide privacy and a quiet environment. A fenced outdoor area is also necessary for exercise and play. The outdoor area should be at least 50 square meters and have a secure fence that is at least 1.5 meters high. The outdoor area should also have shade and shelter from the elements.

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks require a balanced diet that meets their nutritional needs. They need a diet that is high in protein and low in fat. The diet should consist of high-quality dog food, supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables. Fresh water should be available at all times. Regular exercise is also important for the health and well-being of Phu Quoc Ridgebacks. They need at least 30 minutes of exercise per day, such as walking or running. Regular veterinary check-ups are also necessary to ensure that they are healthy and free from disease. Vaccinations and parasite control should be up-to-date.

Summary

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks have a reputation for being loyal and protective companions, making them a popular choice for families and individuals looking for a devoted pet. They are known for their intelligence and trainability, making them suitable for a range of activities such as obedience training and agility. However, potential owners should be aware that these dogs require plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Additionally, they may not be suitable for households with small children or other pets due to their strong prey drive.

Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog FAQS