 Barked: Tue Jun 9, '09 10:56am PST |
 | |  | | Just as Shandi has said, yes even PUREBRED Ridgebacks can be born without a Ridge or "Ridgeless Ridgebacks" as theyre often called. It doesnt happen very often, but they are no more inferior health-wise than any puppy born with a ridge.
As for mixes, there is no for sure yes or no as to whether they will inherit the ridge. Depending on the mix of breeds, the ratio, and sometimes just dumb luck you may end up with a litter of Ridgeback mixes- some of which have a ridge and some not. Be lucky if you have a dog who does have a ridge, at least you know what one part of the mix is!!!
As for the hair "standing up", this is NOT a ridge. Ok well... let me try to explain. If the "ridge" in question stands up PERMANENTLY, or lays flat, or is ALWAYS there- however it looks or swirls- it IS a ridge. Alot of novice owners will see their dogs hair stand up from time to time down their back and think they are part ridgeback. This is NOT the case. Any dog's hair can stand up from its neck to its tail- usually only when exposed to other dogs or people, stimulating events. Its a sign that the dog is alert- and it doesnt always mean the dog is agressive either. They are just REALLY amped up for whatever reason! Oh by the way, these are called "hackles".
SO, if the hair standing up in whatever form is permanent on the dog, always in that position... you have a ridge. If the hair stands up on occasion when he sees other dogs and then goes back to normal flat.. thats just his hackles being rasied.  |  |  | |  |
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