Thai Ridgeback Dog
Also known as Chien Thailandais A Crete Dorsale · Thailand-Ridgeback
Thailand, Primitive type - Hunting Dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 51–61 cm
- Weight
- 16–34 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–13 yrs
- Independent
- Loyal
- Athletic
- Reserved
- Intelligent
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
About the Thai Ridgeback Dog
The Thai Ridgeback Dog is a medium-sized primitive dog from eastern Thailand, kept for hunting and guarding. It is lean and muscular, with a short, smooth coat and a distinctive ridge of hair along the back that grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat. Colours include red, black, blue and fawn.
Temperament
Intelligent, independent and loyal, often reserved with strangers. It is agile and has a strong prey drive. It needs early socialisation and confident, consistent training.
Exercise
Needs plenty of daily exercise, such as brisk walks, running and play. It is athletic and can jump, so use secure fencing and keep it on lead near wildlife.
Grooming
The smooth, short coat takes little work; a weekly rub with a brush or mitt is enough.
Care & wellbeing
Short coat provides little protection against cold or wet, so consider a coat in cold weather. Keep weight lean and check ears.
Daily needs at a glance
For a typical 25 kg adult- Water
- 1 L–1.5 L
- a day
- Energy
- ≈ 1,250 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Exercise
- 90–120 min
- a day
- Grooming
- An occasional brush is plenty
Starting points from the same formulas as our calculators. Your pet's age, weight, activity and food all change the numbers. Work it out for your pet
Living with a Thai Ridgeback Dog
Typical tendencies for the breed. Upbringing, training and the individual matter as much.
History
A primitive-type dog from Thailand with a distinctive ridge of hair running the opposite way on its back. It was a hardy village and hunting dog, and is athletic, intelligent and independent, needing experienced handling.
Health
The breed can be prone to
- Dermoid sinus
- Hip dysplasia
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Check for dermoid sinus
- Hip scores
Not every Thai Ridgeback Dog is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. Read about common conditions and when to see a vet.
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–13 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.
Is a Thai Ridgeback Dog 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
Not sure? Try the breed finder or read choosing the right dog breed.
Common questions
How big does a Thai Ridgeback Dog get?
Adult Thai Ridgeback Dogs typically stand about 51–61 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 16–34 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Thai Ridgeback Dogs live?
Typically 12–13 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 Thai Ridgeback Dog 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 Thai Ridgeback Dog need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Thai Ridgeback Dogs easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Thai Ridgeback Dogs shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Thai Ridgeback Dogs good with children?
They're often better suited to adults or older, calm children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Thai Ridgeback Dog live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Thai Ridgeback Dogs have?
The breed can be prone to dermoid sinus, hip dysplasia. Not every Thai Ridgeback Dog is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by Petopedia as general guidance, not veterinary advice. Ask your vet about health screening for this breed.
Breed details
- Country of origin
- Thailand
- Type
- Primitive type - Hunting Dogs
- Internationally recognised
- 2003