Rhodesian Ridgeback stud dogs with correct ridges and clear joints
A stripe of backward-growing hair along the spine gives the Ridgeback its name. The same gene is linked to a birth defect that breeders must manage. So choosing a sire takes knowledge as well as luck. VerifiedStuds shows each stud's health results, ridge and fee, from an identity-verified owner.
$800 to $2,000+
typical fee, while champion sires cost more
Hips and elbows
the parent club list, plus DNA tests
Natural, chilled, frozen
breeding methods
Ridgeback profiles are being verified. Meanwhile, owners of health-tested males can claim a free Founding Stud spot.
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Add a clear photo of his ridge from above, then his hips, elbows and DNA results.
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Founding Studs pay 0% commission on their first booking, and listing is also free.
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Short on time? Then send us the documents, and we will build the listing for you.
Claim this spotRidgeback stud fees usually run from $800 to $2,000. A health-tested male without titles often charges $800 to $1,500. However, AKC champions, lure coursing titled dogs and proven sires commonly ask $2,000 to $3,000.
These are market estimates, as fees are private. Ridgeback litters are often large, so per-puppy fees and puppy-back deals are both common. Our stud fee guide compares them.
$800 to $2,000+
Overall range: $800 to $3,000
Health-tested, untitled male: $800 to $1,500
Champion or proven sire: $2,000 to $3,000
The Rhodesian Ridgeback Club of the United States sets the breed's list, and the AKC shows the core tests on its Hound Group health testing page. Owners upload these results for the Verified Health badge:
Test
What we accept
Hips
OFA hip evaluation or PennHIP
Elbows
OFA elbow evaluation
DNA panel
Degenerative myelopathy, early onset deafness and juvenile epilepsy
Brucellosis
Negative test taken before the breeding
Beyond joints, DNA tests are widely used. For example, breeders screen for degenerative myelopathy, early onset deafness and a form of juvenile epilepsy. Many also check thyroid, heart and eyes. In addition, every puppy should be checked at birth for dermoid sinus, a skin defect along the spine. Registered results are on the OFA website.
For help with hip and elbow reports, read our health testing guides.
First, look at the ridge. The standard asks for a clear, symmetrical ridge that starts behind the shoulders with two identical whorls, called crowns. Extra or uneven crowns are faults. Ridgeless puppies also appear in some litters, and a DNA test can show what a stud carries.
Next, ask about dermoid sinus. This tube-like defect in the skin is linked to the ridge gene and usually needs surgery. Therefore, ask how many affected puppies he has sired, and how the breeder checks newborns.
Finally, judge build and temperament. Males should stand 25 to 27 inches and weigh about 85 pounds, in light wheaten to red wheaten. A Ridgeback should be dignified and even-tempered, reserved with strangers but never shy.
The AKC describes the Rhodesian Ridgeback as affectionate, dignified and even-tempered. Settlers in southern Africa crossed their dogs with the ridged hunting dogs of the Khoikhoi people. The result was a tough hound that could hold a lion at bay until hunters arrived.
Today the breed is a loyal family guardian and a talented lure courser. It is strong-willed and athletic. As a result, it does best with experienced owners and steady training.
Ridgebacks breed naturally without trouble. However, chilled semen is useful, because well-tested sires can be far apart. Frozen semen, including imports from southern Africa, is also available from some kennels. Each profile lists the methods on offer.
The dog artificial insemination guide explains timing and shipping. Then see how VerifiedStuds works.
1
First, shortlist studs and message owners through the site to agree on dates and terms.
2
Then book the stud and pay the listed fee by card at checkout.
3
After that, accept the breeding terms before the booking confirms.
4
Finally, the owner is paid through Stripe, and you can leave a verified review after the breeding.
Own a Ridgeback stud? List Your Stud free. The first 100 studs pay no commission on their first booking.
Also compare Rottweiler studs, Doberman studs, Chow Chow studs and Akita studs, or see every breed on our stud dogs by breed page. Planning his workload? Then read our guide to age limits for studs. Owners of every breed can list here.
How much is a Rhodesian Ridgeback stud fee?
Most owners charge $800 to $2,000. However, champions and proven sires can ask up to $3,000.
What health tests should a Ridgeback stud have?
The parent club list starts with hips and elbows. Breeders also add DNA tests, thyroid, heart and eye checks. We require a negative brucellosis test too.
What is a dermoid sinus?
It is a narrow tube in the skin along the spine, present at birth. It can become infected, so affected puppies usually need surgery.
Can a Ridgeback be born without a ridge?
Yes. Ridgeless puppies occur when both parents carry the ridgeless gene. They are healthy pets, but they cannot be shown.
Can I list a hound breed with no page?
Yes. Any breed can be listed on VerifiedStuds.
How do I list my Ridgeback at stud?
Create a free account, upload his health results and photos, and set your fee. Or let our team build the listing for you.
List him free while the 100 Founding Stud spots are open, or compare typical fees first.