Frequently Asked Questions

In general, no. You will be able to find some that do, absolutely, but I haven’t had one. And this is in keeping with the development of the breed. Water is dangerous in Africa. There are crocodiles and hippos; two incredibly lethal animals in the water, and those early Ridgebacks that didn’t like getting fully wet were more likely to become cornerstones of the breed. If you and your family are active in water sports and want your pet to join you, another breed may be more suitable, such as Labradors, Flat Coated Retrievers, Portuguese Water Dogs, and Newfoundlands to name a few. If you like to hike, camp, and want a dog that is at home wherever you are, a Ridgeback is a great addition.

Almost everyone that contacts me mentions that they are looking at adding a Ridgeback because they are good family dogs. And it is very true: they are great family dogs. It is important to stress that children should be taught the proper way to interact with a puppy and adult dog and made completely aware that dogs are living creatures with emotions and feel pain. A good rule to follow is if you wouldn’t allow your child to do something to a human infant or toddler, you shouldn’t allow it to be done to a puppy or dog.

Everyone needs to be prepared to add a Ridgeback to their family. Here are the steps I require for my puppies:

1. A completed application  – this will provide some basic information and set the stage for a conversation,

2. A phone interview – this will be a conversation really where we get to ask each other important questions,

3. A visit of me and my dogs here at my home here in Virginia – I can observe your interaction with my guys here and you can see how my dogs look and act in person.

My well-bred puppies are available to qualified homes for $3,000.

A dermoid sinus (DS) is a neural tube defect that is typically found along your dog’s back, neck and tail. Dermoid sinus appears to be a condition that can be found at birth and is found primarily in Ridgeback breeds with some evidence of it being found in other breeds as well. These tubes are trouble because dead cells, tissue, and hair can build up and can become infected and possibly develop an abscess.   We always have them surgically removed and once done, it is usually done and the puppy grows up happy and healthy.  There can be after care due to swelling and fluid build up that may be treated with cold laser therapy.  The puppy needs to be separated from other puppies and dogs during recovery.  Once healed, they are good to go! 

The short answer is no.  The ridge is considered a dominant trait but the breed was developed using European breeds that did not have ridges crossed with African dogs that did.  So ridgeless puppies do occur and are sold to loving homes that want all the other characteristics that make up this breed I love.  They make perfectly healthy, happy, family members that don't know they are missing a ridge!

Yes.  In order to secure a puppy, you need to complete the application process and put down a deposit that will apply to the purchase of a puppy in my next litter.  Use the contact button to speak to me further about adding a Sunstone Ridgeback to your home.