Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppies for Sale
Recognized by: AKC, FCI, KC, UKC
About the Rhodesian Ridgeback
Named for the distinctive ridge of backward-growing hair along his spine, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was developed in southern Africa to track big game and guard the homestead, producing an athletic, self-reliant hound with remarkable stamina. He is affectionate and mellow with his own people yet reserved with strangers, independent-minded, and strong enough that firm, reward-based training from puppyhood is non-negotiable. Bred to make decisions on his own in the field, the Ridgeback thinks before he obeys, so novice owners often underestimate how much consistent leadership and daily exercise he needs. With his short coat and dignified nature he is a low-maintenance housemate, but never a pushover.
Every dog is an individual — genetics, socialization, health, training, and environment matter more than breed averages.
Typical tendencies
Scored against PuppyList’s editorial rubric. Tendencies, not guarantees.
Exercise needsHigher than most
Energy levelHigher than most
TrainabilityTypical
Grooming effortMinimal
SheddingLower than most
BarkingLower than most
Apartment fitLower than most
Good with childrenHigher than most
Good with other dogsTypical
First-time ownersLower than most
4 active listings
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Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy -Brown Collar
maleRed Wheaten with Black muzzle
Pieter de Klerk
$350View details →
Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy – Blue Collar
maleRed Wheaten with Black muzzle
Pieter de Klerk
$350View details →
Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy – Purple Collar
femaleRed Wheaten with dark muzzle and white parch on chest
Pieter de Klerk
$350View details →
Where this breed shines
- Athletic, hardy, and up for hiking or running with an active owner
- Short coat is easy to maintain and low-shedding
- Quiet, dignified, and devoted to family
Things to consider
- Independent, strong-willed nature challenges first-time owners
- Needs substantial daily exercise and secure fencing
- Reserved with strangers; early socialization is important
History
The Rhodesian Ridgeback descends from European breeds crossed with the ridged, semi-domesticated dogs of southern Africa's Khoikhoi people. Settlers refined the dogs to hunt in packs and bay big game while guarding home and family. The AKC recognized the breed in 1955.
Temperament
Dignified, loyal, and even-tempered at home, the Ridgeback is devoted to family and aloof toward outsiders. He is intelligent but strong-willed and independent, requiring patient, positive training. His athletic drive calls for a committed exercise routine.
Questions to ask a Rhodesian Ridgeback breeder
- Do you screen puppies for dermoid sinus at birth?
- Are the parents OFA-tested for hips, thyroid, and degenerative myelopathy (DNA)?
- How do you expose your litters to people, noises, and other dogs?
Health considerations to discuss
Dermoid sinus. Educational, non-diagnostic; a breed-linked congenital condition responsible breeders check for in newborn puppies.
Hip dysplasia. Educational, non-diagnostic; ask for OFA hip evaluations on both parents.
Degenerative myelopathy. Educational, non-diagnostic; a DNA test can identify carrier and at-risk status.
Informational only — always consult a veterinarian and ask breeders for documentation. Sources: AKC Rhodesian Ridgeback breed overview · Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States · OFA health testing database — written by PuppyList editorial
Questions worth asking about any Rhodesian Ridgeback litter
- Can I see the puppy and its mother — in person or on a live video call?
- What health checks, vaccinations, and vet visits has this litter had?
- How was the litter raised and socialized?
- What paperwork comes with the puppy (health records, registry papers if applicable)?
- What is your deposit, payment, and pickup/transport process?
Frequently asked questions
How do I buy a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy on PuppyList?
Browse the Rhodesian Ridgeback listings on this page, open one to see photos, details, and the breeder's information, then contact the breeder directly. PuppyList is a marketplace — you arrange the purchase with the breeder yourself.
How much do Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies cost?
Listed puppies currently range from $350 to $1,200. Each breeder sets their own price, which varies with the puppy's age, lineage, and location.
How can I tell if a Rhodesian Ridgeback breeder is trustworthy?
Contact the breeder, ask for recent photos or a video of the actual puppy, and confirm details before you commit. Never send money before verifying. See our listing guidelines for the full buyer-safety checklist.