Rhodesian Ridgeback Health Problems

Congenital Problems

Ridgelessness and dermoid sinus are the two most common congenital conditions seen in the newborn Ridgeback puppy.

Ridgelessness

Because of the manner in which the ridge is inherited, some Ridgebacks are born without the signature trait that gives the breed its name. Healthwise, these puppies are no different from their ridged siblings. But because they lack this hallmark breed trait, ridgeless puppies cannot be shown or bred. Many breeders will sell their “slickbacks” as pets on limited AKC registrations and should mandate that they be spayed and neutered.

A reputable Ridgeback breeder will never tell you that a ridge will “grow in later.” A ridgeless puppy will never develop a ridge. In ridged puppies, the ridge that is present at birth is the same ridge that the dog will have its entire life. From length to width to the placement of crowns, or whorls, the ridge will grow proportionately into adulthood.

Dermoid sinus

Dermoid sinus is a dermatological defect in which a tube-like opening onto the skin will become repeatedly infected and abscessed unless surgically corrected. Many veterinarians remove the dermoid when the puppy is 8 weeks or older; however, some veterinarians experienced at performing this surgery on dozens, if not hundreds of Ridgebacks advocate operating as soon as possible a few days after birth for the best results. 

Breeders should have dermoid surgery performed on affected puppies before they go to their new homes, and the pups should be well on their way to recovery before you take them home.