Nothing beats getting something you’ve wanted for so long.
What if that birthday present was a dog?
A Rhodesian Ridgeback, to be exact.
While most people would be ecstatic, some are hesitant because they’ve heard that these dogs shed.
So, does a Rhodesian Ridgeback shed?
Rhodesian Ridgeback does shed, but they aren’t considered a high shedding breed.
They are classified as moderate shedders, and this is a result of factors like season changes, age, diet, stress, and more.
For instance, as temperatures rise in the spring, your dog’s coat starts to thin out because they don’t need the extra insulation to keep warm anymore.
They don’t have an undercoat, so they don’t shed as much as other dogs.
Thus, they have minimal odor and don’t require as much grooming.
However, how much exactly depends on where your dog lives.
For instance, indoor dogs will shed less than outdoor dogs.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks that live in cold climates shed more because they have to grow their coat back.
Conversely, dogs in warmer temperatures shed less because they don’t need as much fur.
If you live in a warm climate and your dog doesn’t go outside often, expect them to shed minimally.
On average, Rhodesian Ridgebacks shed about once a week.
This is significantly less than other breeds, such as German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers, which can shed up to twice a day.
If you live in a cold climate, your dog may shed more during the winter months; but shedding is less during the summer months for those in a warm environment.
However, some Rhodesian Ridgebacks don’t shed at all.
This is rare, but it does happen.
These dogs are typically allergic to something in their environment, and their bodies can’t produce the necessary oils to keep their fur healthy.
As a result, their fur falls out in clumps.
If you think your dog falls into this category, it’s best to take them to the vet.
What Causes Rhodesian Ridgebacks to Shed Excessively?
Rhodesian Ridgebacks do shed, but it depends on various factors, such as climate and nutrition.
You should keep this in mind if you’re considering getting this dog breed.
However, don’t let shedding deter you from getting this fantastic breed.
They make great companions and are relatively low-maintenance.
However, a few things can cause your dog to shed more than usual.
Medical Condition
Some illnesses, such as Cushing’s disease, can cause your dog to shed excessively.
This is a condition that occurs when the body produces too much of the hormone cortisol.
Cortisol helps the body manage stress, but too much of it causes various problems, including hair loss.
Hi, my name is Megan Turner and I have worked in a dog’s shelter for four years now. It is truly my dream job, and I see hundreds of dogs every month being united with new owners to give them a loving forever home.
Unfortunately, handicapped dogs are much more likely to be ignored when a family is picking out their new pet. Handicapped pets need more care than non-handicapped pets, so it is understandable why they are often harder to rehome.
