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Breed Characteristics
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Thai Ridgeback
| Other Names | Thai Ridgeback Dog, TRD, Mah Thai, Thai Dog, Mah Thai Lung Arn |
| Country of Origin | Thailand |
| Weight | 51 - 75 lbs. (23 - 34 kg) According to the official standard of the FCI, there are no weight requirements. |
| Height (at withers) | Males: 22 - 24 in. (56 - 60 cm) Females: 20 - 22 in. (51 - 56 cm) |
| Coat | They have a very short, smooth coat. It has a pronounced ridge on its back formed by hair growing in the opposite direction that extends from behind the withers to the hips. Puppies are occasionally born ridgeless. The tongue can be black or have black marks. |
| Colour | Coat colors include: chestnut, black, blue and silver. The tongue can be black or have black marks. |
| Litter Size | 3 - 6 puppies |
| Life Span | 12 - 16 years |
| Origin & History | The origin of the Thai Ridgeback is undocumented, but the breed was developed in eastern Thailand. The history of the breed is the subject of numerous hypotheses. The other existing purebreeds of ridgeback dog are the Rhodesian Ridgeback from Africa and the Phu Quoc Ridgeback from Vietnam, which is somewhat smaller than the Thai Ridgeback. Based on genetic-based hypothesis, both Thai Ridgeback Dog and Phu Quoc Dog are likely to be descended from Funan Ridgeback Dog which originated over 1,000 years ago in Funan Era of the region. The Hottentot Dog or Ari Dog (as called by the tribe), a known African ridgeback ancestor of the Rhodesian Ridgeback, is now extinct. Its link to the Funan Ridgeback Dog is very likely in a historian opinion. The possible genetic connection among the three remaining breeds is being investigated through DNA studies. The relationship between the Thai Ridgeback and the Rhodesian Ridgeback is uncertain, but possible through the Hottentot Dog or Ari Dog. There is minimal scientific proof that they are related. |
| Personality | Until recently the Thai Ridgeback was relatively unknown outside of eastern Thailand and is very rare elsewhere. This breed is a good watch, guard and hunting dog, but also makes a nice companion. Tough and active with excellent jumping ability. It is a very active and alert dog but also without socialization can be a bit aloof toward strangers. May be difficult to train. The Thai Ridgeback needs a dominant owner who understands the breed. One who has natural authority, in a firm but calm manner; confident and consistent with the rules placed upon the dog. A Thai’s owner that does not correct the dog at the proper times may find that the dog develops aggressive tendencies. With the right handler it is never too late to curb any unwanted behaviors once the owners learn how to properly treat the dog, along with providing the proper mental and physical exercise. |
Care Requirements
| Health | Thai ridgebacks are a hearty, overall healthy breed with few inherent health issues. The breed has reproduced in Thailand almost exclusively by natural selection until the very recent past. The domesticated population is small. Inbreeding depression has not been observed in the breed. Thai Ridgeback Dogs are prone to dermoid sinus. Modern lines of Thai Ridgeback, resulting from interpopulation crosses, may also be prone to hip dysplasia and other genetic disorders. |
| Grooming | The Thai Ridgeback does not need a lot of grooming. An occasional combing and brushing to remove the dead hair will do. |
| Exercise | This breed should get plenty of exercise, including a daily, long walk. |
| Other Considerations | Thai Ridgebacks will do okay in an apartment if it sufficiently exercised. These dogs prefer warm climates and cannot withstand the cold. |
