The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a fearless and loyal breed. But how do you know whether you are ready to purchase a pet and if this breed is right for you? This information is absolutely necessary in making the decision to purchase a pet.
Breed History
Native to Vietnam, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback’s history has not been well documented. Enthusiasts and few experts believe that all Ridgeback breeds (including the Phu Quoc, Rhodesian, and Thai) originated in either Asia or Africa, due to their distinct ridge markings along the spine, though this has never been confirmed scientifically.
It is also believed that like the Thai Ridgeback, the Phu Quoc has been used as a carting, escort, hunting, and guard dog throughout its history, due to its impressive appearance and muscular physique.
Personality Traits
The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is best known for its ability to run, jump, and swim faster than most other breeds. These dogs love to hunt and chase. This breed is extremely loyal loving, and naturally obedient, thriving on dependable human relationships. The Phu Quoc is an intelligent and curious breed that loves to learn.
Train-ability
Due to its need for strong human relationships and its obedient nature, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback typically responds well to basic training and commands. These dogs enjoy learning and pleasing their owners, and can be taught to perform most any task its trainer is willing to take the time to teach it.
Establishing immediate dominance and trust is key to successfully training the Phu Quoc Ridgeback.
Benefits and Disadvantages of the Breed
There are many benefits to owning a Phu Quoc Ridgeback, such as their no hassle coat. This breed is highly intelligent and easily trainable and can be taught to perform most any task or trick. When properly socialized, the Phu Quoc gets along well with children and other pets. These dogs thrive on dependable and lasting relationships with humans and are known to be affectionate, loving, and very loyal. The Phu Quoc makes an excellent family pet and companion alike. While this breed is overly trusting to strangers, it does make a nice deterrent simply because of its impressive appearance.
Unfortunately, there are also disadvantages to owning a Phu Quoc Ridgeback. These energetic dogs require large amounts of daily exercise and room to run and play. Anyone wishing to purchase this breed lacking the adequate amount of time and space to dedicate to the dog is strongly advised against doing so. A Phu Quoc Ridgeback not receiving the proper amount of exercise will often act out by destroying property, chewing, barking, whining, and ignoring basic training such as housebreaking.
Due to their instinct to hunt, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback will occasionally indulge in a good chase. When on the run, these dogs are extremely fast and difficult to keep up with, and may pose a threat to other animals, neighborhood pets, and small woodland creatures. The Phu Quoc Ridgeback must be leashed or properly secured at all times when outdoors.
The Phu Quoc relies heavily on strong relationships with humans and therefore suffers from separation anxiety. Individuals wishing to purchase this breed who travel regularly, have full time work, or are away from the home on a daily basis are advised to research another breed. During an attack of separation anxiety, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback will act out of nervous destruction and may destroy property, chew, whine, bark, and ignore housebreaking training.
As previously mentioned, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback remains rather rare outside of its native Vietnam and can prove difficult to obtain. Individuals seeking to purchase this breed will often encounter such challenges as inability to locate a breeder, extremely high prices, and being placed on long waiting lists.
Common Health Concerns
While the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is generally known as a healthy and hearty breed, they do suffer from a few health problems, including: hip dysplasia, various joint problems such as arthritis, patellar luxation – dislocation of the knee, and bloat.
Now that you know all about the breed, do you think you are ready to own a Phu Quoc Ridgeback? Remember, purchasing a pet is a big decision and should be discussed thoroughly and seriously with you entire family.
Sources:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/phu_quoc_ridgeback_dog
http://dogbreeds.bulldoginformation.com/phu-quoc-dog.html
