Phu Quoc Ridgeback
Also known as Chó Phú Quốc · Phu Quoc Dog · Vietnamese Ridgeback
Vietnam, Landraces and village dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 48–55 cm
- Weight
- 12–20 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Agile
- Alert
- Loyal
- Independent
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a medium-sized hunting dog from Phú Quốc island in southern Vietnam, with a ridge of hair growing the wrong way along its back. It is one of only three ridgeback breeds, alongside the Rhodesian and Thai Ridgebacks, and one of Vietnam's four native breeds. It is lean, fast and a good swimmer.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 48–55 cm
- Adult weight
- 12–20 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–15 years
Most Phu Quoc Ridgebacks live 12–15 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
These dogs are alert, agile and loyal, traditionally serving as both hunters and watchdogs. They can be independent and are naturally wary of strangers.
- Agile
- Alert
- Loyal
- Independent
Food
For a typical 16 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 900 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 640 ml–960 ml
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayThey need plenty of daily exercise, including running and, ideally, swimming. Scent and tracking games suit them well.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat is easy to look after with an occasional brush.
Health
Puppies should be checked for dermoid sinus, a condition linked to the ridge in other ridgeback breeds. Early socialisation helps manage their natural wariness. Outside Vietnam the breed is very rare.
The breed can be prone to
- No well-documented breed-specific health problems
- Dermoid sinus is a recognised risk in ridged breeds generally
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Dermoid sinus check in puppies
Not every Phu Quoc Ridgeback is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The dogs began as a semi-feral landrace that hunted and guarded for the islanders. French colonists noted them in the nineteenth century, and some were sent to Paris. Numbers fell after outside dogs reached the island, but the breed has since recovered. Genetic work suggests it is closer to Korea's Pungsan than to the Thai Ridgeback.
- Country of origin
- Vietnam
- Type
- Landraces and village dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Vietnam Kennel Association; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Phu Quoc Ridgeback right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–15 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Phu Quoc Ridgeback FAQ
How big does a Phu Quoc Ridgeback get?
Adult Phu Quoc Ridgebacks typically stand about 48–55 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 12–20 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Phu Quoc Ridgebacks live?
Typically 12–15 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Phu Quoc Ridgeback need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Phu Quoc Ridgeback need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Phu Quoc Ridgebacks easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Phu Quoc Ridgebacks shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Phu Quoc Ridgebacks good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Phu Quoc Ridgeback live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Phu Quoc Ridgebacks have?
The breed can be prone to no well-documented breed-specific health problems, dermoid sinus is a recognised risk in ridged breeds generally. Not every Phu Quoc Ridgeback is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.