How big does a Rhodesian Ridgeback get?

A full-grown Rhodesian Ridgeback typically stands 61–69 cm (24.0–27.2 inches) tall at the shoulder and weighs 29–41 kg (63.9–90.4 lbs). Rhodesian Ridgeback is considered a large breed and may take up to 18–24 months to reach full size.

What is the lifespan of a Rhodesian Ridgeback?

The average lifespan of a Rhodesian Ridgeback is 10–12 years. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and routine veterinary care can help your dog live a longer, healthier life. Maintaining a healthy weight is one of the most important factors in extending your dog's lifespan — overweight dogs can lose 1–2 years of life expectancy.

What are the personality traits of a Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Rhodesian Ridgeback are known for being strong-willed, dignified, even-tempered, loyal. They are generally good with children and make excellent family dogs. They are moderately trainable with consistent positive reinforcement. They need plenty of space and exercise, making them better suited for homes with yards.

Is a Rhodesian Ridgeback a good choice for apartments and families?

A Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large breed that typically needs more space and exercise, so they may not be ideal for small apartments. They are generally good with kids and make great family companions. They are a low-shedding breed, which is great for keeping your home clean.

What are common health issues for large breed dogs like the Rhodesian Ridgeback?

Large breeds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback are prone to hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), arthritis, and certain cancers. Feeding a large-breed puppy formula and maintaining healthy weight can reduce joint stress. Keeping your dog at an ideal weight is the single most effective way to reduce the risk of many of these conditions. Use our BCS assessment tool above to check your dog's condition.

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Rhodesian Ridgeback Weight & Calorie Guide

Q: How many calories does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need per day?

A typical adult Rhodesian Ridgeback weighing about 35 kg needs approximately 1612–2015 kcal per day, depending on activity level and neuter status. Puppies and very active dogs need more, while seniors and neutered dogs need less. Use our breed-specific calculator for an exact number.

Large Breed

Quick Answer

A healthy adult Rhodesian Ridgeback weighs 29–41 kg (63.9–90.4 lbs), according to the AKC breed standard. Puppies reach 50% of adult weight by 6–8 months and full weight by 14–18 months.

Source: AKC breed standard, WSAVA nutrition guidelines

Quick Facts

Ideal Weight

29–41 kg

(63.9–90.4 lbs)

Size Category

large

Breed Type

Daily Calories

~1612–2015 kcal

Adult, neutered

Free Tools

BCS Assessment Calorie Calculator

Ideal Weight Range

29 kgto41 kg

63.9 lbsto90.4 lbs

UnderweightIdealOverweightObese

Data:AKC breed standard·WSAVA guidelines

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Puppy Weight Predictor

For puppies under 12 months. Enter your puppy's current weight and age to predict adult weight.

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How the puppy weight predictor works

This predictor uses growth milestone data from Salt et al. (2017), published in Veterinary Record, which tracked the weight development of dogs across five size categories from birth to adulthood. By comparing your puppy's current weight against the expected growth percentage for their age and size category, we estimate their adult weight range.

Factors that affect adult weight

Genetics play the largest role, but nutrition, neutering status, and overall health also influence growth rate. Puppies fed excessive calories during rapid growth phases may exceed their genetic weight potential, while underfed puppies may not reach it. Large and giant breeds grow more slowly than toy and small breeds, reaching full size at 18–24 months rather than 10–12 months.

Data source: Salt et al. (2017) "Growth patterns of commercial kennel dogs" Veterinary Record • AKC breed standards

Rhodesian Ridgeback Health & Weight Management

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are powerful, dignified hounds originally bred to track lions in Southern Africa. They are lean, athletic dogs with a distinctive ridge of hair along their spine. Their deep chest makes them prone to bloat (GDV), and excess weight increases this risk. Hip and elbow dysplasia are also concerns. Ridgebacks can develop dermoid sinus (a congenital skin condition) — maintaining lean body condition supports overall health.

Exercise: 45–60 minutes of daily exercise — long walks, jogging, and secure off-leash running. Ridgebacks have surprising sprint speed and endurance. They enjoy lure coursing and hiking. Despite their size, they are "couch potatoes" indoors and adapt well to family life.

Feeding tips: Feed measured meals twice daily using a large-breed formula. Avoid one large meal to reduce bloat risk. Use slow-feeder bowls. Ridgebacks are not aggressive beggars but will opportunistically eat anything left unattended.

Keeping your Rhodesian Ridgeback at a healthy 64–90 lbs (29–41 kg) supports joint and digestive health. Use PawScale’s calorie calculator for Ridgebacks to determine daily needs, check body condition with our BCS tool, and follow the crate size calculator.

Data source: AKC breed standard

Data source: AKC breed standard • Last updated: 2026-08-12

Is your Rhodesian Ridgeback at a healthy weight?

59% of dogs are overweight — can you tell? Take our free 2-minute Body Condition Score assessment.

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Rhodesian Ridgeback Calorie Calculator

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much should a Rhodesian Ridgeback weigh?

The ideal weight for a Rhodesian Ridgeback is 29–41 kg (63.9–90.4 lbs). Weight can vary based on gender, age, and individual build. Use our calorie calculator above to get personalized feeding recommendations.

How many calories does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need per day?

A typical adult Rhodesian Ridgeback weighing 35 kg needs approximately 1612–2015 kcal per day, depending on activity level and whether they are neutered. Use our breed-specific calculator above for an exact number based on your dog's details.

Is my Rhodesian Ridgeback overweight?

59% of dogs are overweight, and most owners cannot tell just by looking. Check your Rhodesian Ridgeback's Body Condition Score (BCS) — if you can't easily feel their ribs or they have no visible waist from above, they may be overweight. Take our free 2-minute BCS assessment above to find out.

When does a Rhodesian Ridgeback reach full adult weight?

Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies reach 50% of their adult weight by 6–8 months and typically reach full adult weight by 14–18 months, according to AKC growth guidelines. Small breeds mature faster than large breeds.

What size crate does a Rhodesian Ridgeback need?

A Rhodesian Ridgeback typically needs a 42-inch crate based on breed size. Use PawScale's free crate size calculator for a personalized recommendation.

References & data sources

1. AKC Official Breed Standard — Rhodesian Ridgeback. akc.org

2. Salt C, et al. “Estimating the expected growth of dogs.” Vet Record, 2017;180(15):376.

3. National Research Council. Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats. National Academies Press, 2006.

4. Laflamme DP. “Development and validation of a body condition score system for dogs.” Canine Practice, 1997;22(4):10–15.

5. WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines; Association for Pet Obesity Prevention (APOP) 9-point BCS scale.

Last reviewed: September 2026

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