A Comparison of the 3 Ridgeback Breeds

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback, Thai Ridgeback, and Rhodesian Ridgeback all share the distinctive ridge of hair along their backs, but they differ in origin, size, temperament, and purpose. Here’s a detailed breakdown of their differences:

1. Origin and History

• Phu Quoc Ridgeback – Originates from Phu Quoc Island, Vietnam. A rare breed, they were historically semi-feral, used for hunting and guarding. They are one of the few breeds in the world with webbed feet, aiding in swimming.

• Thai Ridgeback – Originates from Thailand, specifically eastern Thailand. An ancient breed that was primarily used for hunting, guarding, and cart pulling in rural villages.

• Rhodesian Ridgeback – Originates from Southern Africa (Zimbabwe, formerly Rhodesia). Bred for hunting large game, including lions, and used as a guard dog by European settlers.

2. Size and Build

Feature	Phu Quoc Ridgeback	Thai Ridgeback	Rhodesian Ridgeback
FCI Class Size	Primitive Medium	Primitive Medium to Large	Scent hound Large
Weight	30-50 lbs (13-23 kg)	35-75 lbs (16-34 kg)	70-85 lbs (32-39 kg)
Height	18-22 inches (46-56 cm)	20-24 inches (51-61 cm)	24-27 inches (61-69 cm)
Build	Lean, athletic, agile	Muscular, powerful	Strong, muscular, deep-chested
Type	Primitive, Scent and sight hound	Primitive, Hunting	Scent hound

• Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are the smallest of the three, known for their agility and speed.

• Thai Ridgebacks are muscular and compact with strong jumping ability.

• Rhodesian Ridgebacks are the largest, bred for strength and endurance.

  
  

3. Coat and Appearance

Feature	Phu Quoc Ridgeback	Thai Ridgeback	Rhodesian Ridgeback
Coat Type	Short, fine, slightly rough	Short, dense	Short, sleek
Coat Colors	Black, fawn, brindle	Red, black, fawn, blue	Light wheaten to red wheaten
Distinct Features	Webbed feet, thin build, prominent ridge	Broad head, powerful build, ridged back	Deep chest, powerful frame, strong endurance

• Phu Quoc Ridgebacks have a short rough coat and are unique for their webbed feet, making them excellent swimmers.

• Thai Ridgebacks have a skin-tight short coat, sometimes with wrinkled skin.

• Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a strong, athletic frame and are built for endurance.

4. Temperament & Behavior

Feature	Phu Quoc Ridgeback	Thai Ridgeback	Rhodesian Ridgeback
Temperament	Intelligent, independent, loyal	Protective, intelligent, wary of strangers	Affectionate, strong-willed, protective
Prey Drive	Moderate to high	High	High
Guarding Instinct	Moderate	High	High
Trainability	Intelligent but can be independent	Can be stubborn but trainable	Trainable but needs firm leadership
Good with Families?	Yes, with early socialization	Yes, but needs proper training	Yes, very loyal and affectionate

• Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are intelligent and fast learners but can be aloof with strangers. They bond closely with their families but are not as strong-willed as the Thai or Rhodesian Ridgeback.

• Thai Ridgebacks have the strongest guarding instinct and are highly protective, sometimes making them wary of strangers.

• Rhodesian Ridgebacks are affectionate and great family dogs, but they are also independent and need a confident owner.

5. Exercise & Activity Levels

• Phu Quoc Ridgeback – Very active, needs daily exercise and mental stimulation. They love running and swimming.

• Thai Ridgeback – Also high-energy, they need structured training and regular physical activity.

• Rhodesian Ridgeback – Bred for endurance and strength, they require long daily exercise sessions and space to roam.

6. Health & Lifespan

Feature	Phu Quoc Ridgeback	Thai Ridgeback	Rhodesian Ridgeback
Lifespan	12-15 years	12-15 years	10-12 years
Health Issues	Generally healthy, dermoid sinus	Hip dysplasia, skin allergies, dermoid sinus	Hip dysplasia, dermoid sinus, bloat

• Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are generally very healthy due to natural selection on Phu Quoc Island.

• Thai Ridgebacks may suffer from hip dysplasia and skin issues.

• Rhodesian Ridgebacks are prone to hip dysplasia, dermoid sinus, and gastric torsion (bloat).

7. Suitability for Owners

Feature	Phu Quoc Ridgeback	Thai Ridgeback	Rhodesian Ridgeback
First-Time Dog Owners?	Possible with research	Not recommended	Not ideal but manageable with experience
Best Living Environment	Active home, preferably with space to run	Experienced owner, needs socialization	Large space, experienced owner
Training Difficulty	Moderate	Challenging	Moderate

• Phu Quoc Ridgebacks can be good for first-time owners if they are well-researched and committed.

• Thai Ridgebacks require an experienced handler due to their strong guarding instincts.

• Rhodesian Ridgebacks can be stubborn but trainable with consistency.

  
  

Final Thoughts: Which One is Right for You?

• If you want an agile, intelligent, and affectionate dog with webbed feet for swimming, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a great choice.

• If you need a strong guard dog with high intelligence and independence, the Thai Ridgeback is the best fit.

• If you want a large, powerful, and loyal family dog that can handle an active lifestyle, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is ideal.

Please note that this is a broad overview of each ridgeback breed. For a deeper insight into the Vietnamese Phu Quoc Ridgeback, visit the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Dog Forum on Facebook.