By Macy Gen Veterinary AssistantMacy Gen Last updated: 17th November 2022

Thai Ridgeback

By

Macy Gen Veterinary Assistant Macy Gen
Last updated: 17th November 2022

The Thai Ridgeback is one of the ancient dog breeds originating in Thailand, with a medium body stature, significant for its ridged pattern, seen on its back in a direction opposite to the remaining part of its coat. Apart from the Phu Quo Ridgeback and Rhodesian Ridgeback, this is the only other breed to have this pattern. Other remarkable physical features of the Thai Ridgeback include a strong built, wedge-shaped head, prick ears formed into a triangle, wrinkled forehead, almond-shaped eyes, spotted tongue and a thick, curved tail carried like a sickle, tapered at its tip. These amusing breeds can make for a great family pet when appropriately groomed.

Thai Ridgeback Pictures

Quick Information

Other NamesMah Thai, Mah Thai Lang Ahn, TRD, Thai dog
CoatShort and smooth
ColorBlue, red, yellow, black (with a black mask)
TypePurebred
GroupHounds, Sighthounds, Ridgeback dogs
SizeMedium
Lifespan/ Life Expectancy10-13 years
HeightMale: 22-24 inches
Female: 20-22 inches
Weight75-80 pounds
Litter size5 puppies
Behavioral Characteristics Tough, active, alert, intelligent, independent
Good with childrenOlder kids
Climate compatibilityHot and humid
BarkingModerate
Shedding (Does it shed)Minimal
HypoallergenicNo
Competitive Registration Qualification/ InformationACR, APRI, AKC/FSS, ATROF, ATRA, FCI, DRA, NAPR, KCTH, TRCUS, NKC
CountryThailand


History

This is a primitive breed which originated in Thailand about 350 years ago, though there is no detailed document regarding the history of its development. However, a certain source links its lineage to the presently extinct Hottentot dog that was also instrumental in the creation of other breeds of this variety like the Rhodesian Ridgeback (Africa) and Phu Quoc Ridgeback (Vietnam). These were versatile dogs, used for several purposes like guarding property, prying upon cobras, pulling carts, hunting games as well as alarming its masters of any intruder.

Though it was initially unfamiliar of its origination (Thailand), it gradually gained popularity in the West. Its importance in the United States spread during the early 90s and it attained recognition from the UKC in 1996, while the AKC included it in its foundation stock service in 1997.

Temperament and Personality

One of the prominent traits of this breed is its independent mindset which is because they remained all by themselves in the past, aloof from human beings.

It desires to get things done in the way he pleases, and would even boss over the master if provided an opportunity. However, he can also be a friendly companion when brought up in the right way.

Owing to its watchdog skills, it can be wary or aloof towards strangers and protective of his master, making every attempt to save him. Since they were bred to hunt and chase games, the Thai Ridgeback they would not be too comfortable enough with other pets, particularly the smaller ones, which they can prey upon conveniently. They would also not adjust to dogs that they are not familiar with or those who are trying to evade their territory.

Though they would be a suitable playmate for older kids who treat them well, because of their boisterous nature, they are not a preferred choice for the younger ones.

Care

Exercise

Having a medium to high activity level, the TRD, does well in an apartment, but needs sufficient amount of exercise to remain charged up, lest they may turn destructive, resorting to tearing furniture or chewing anything available at hand. A daily walk or jog in a dog park or your backyard would be sufficient. Do not take them out in the chilly weather since these dogs are not tolerant of the cold climate.

Grooming

The Thai Ridgeback needs minimal grooming because of its short, smooth coat. Comb it on a weekly basis with a firm bristle or rubber curry brush to retain the gleam and shine as well as for removing the dead hairs. Other grooming needs include the basic hygiene like trimming its nails, cleaning its eyes and ears as well as brushing its teeth to keep all infections at bay.

Health Problems

Though healthy and hardy, some of the common problems faced by it include hip dysplasia and demoid sinus (a skin condition occurring because of a neural tube defect).

Training

Because of its dominant and boisterous nature, these dogs are a complete no-no for novice trainers or those of a submissive nature. They need a strict and firm master who can tactfully handle them without being harsh or rough.

  • Giving obedience training to the Thai Ridgeback puppies is a must so that they gradually get over their dominant nature and begin listening to you. Train him on the basic commands like “Stop,” “Come,” and “Go,” so that it stops its destructive or unacceptable behavior whenever they hear you uttering them.
  • Socializing them from a young age is of utmost importance since they do not have a friendly disposition towards unknown people and other pets. It is essential to acquaint them with a whole lot of experience so that they can distinguish the bad from the good. While introducing them to people or pets make sure you do it slowly and gradually with proper supervision to prevent any unpleasant occurrences.

Feeding

These active and energetic dogs have a high energy level requiring a proper and nutritious diet. Besides 2.5 to 3 cups dry dog food on a regular basis, they would need an adequate amount of protein and vitamins in their diet to maintain a sound health.

4 responses to “Thai Ridgeback”

  1. Bec says:

    We did a DNA test on our rescue from one of Thailands illegal dog meat markets & found out shes 1/2 Thai Ridge. She of course was never properly socialized & was already around around 3/4 years old when we got her. Everything I’ve read talks about how important it is to train them from puppies, but we weren’t able to. Any tips? We’ve already had 3 different trainers out to help us.

  2. glenn says:

    I just got my black female TRD at 4.5 months old. I want to train her to come (when off leash) and stop (bad habits like chewing furniture)

  3. Helen Landes says:

    Do you know of any blue TRDs with severe skin itchiness and bald spots and how does it get resolved?

    • Sean frye says:

      My black TRD has had the same issues in the past changing his diet to limited ingredient venison food has helped immensely along with allergy immune bites. When he got very enflamed and itchy Zyrtec and coconut oil help to calm down the rash. Hope this helps!

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