A portion of nutritionally balanced food and adequate exercise are essential for the health of your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy.
But, how much to feed a rhodesian ridgeback puppy?
When estimating your puppy's potential growth, knowing how much to feed a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is critical.
The amount of food your puppy requires is determined by several factors, including its age, degree of activity, and size.
This article will give you more information on how to feed your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy and the nutritional requirements in general.
Related Articles:
How Much To Feed A Dachshund Puppy? [Answered]
How Much To Feed An English Cocker Spaniel Puppy? [Answered]
How Much Should A Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy Eat?
The amount of food you feed your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy is determined by a number of factors, including its age, amount of exercise, and size.
Because the Rhodesian Ridgeback has a significant risk of stomach dilatation-volvulus, it should not be fed only once a day.
To minimize bloating, they should be given repeated servings throughout the day.
Puppies between the ages of 8 and 12 weeks should have four meals per day, while those between the ages of 3 and 6 months should eat three meals per day.
Puppies should be fed twice a day between the ages of six months and one year.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy Feeding Chart
Here Are The Feeding Suggestions For A Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy
Throughout their lives, the priority for feeding your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy will shift.
To maintain their growth, your puppy requires a consistent supply of energy as well as plenty of protein to aid muscle development.
When your puppy reaches the age of six months, you should minimize the amount of food you offer them since too much food might induce weight gain, which can contribute to future musculoskeletal problems.
Multiplying your puppy's RER (Resting Energy Requirement) by two is the easiest approach to figure out how much they need.
RER is computed by raising 70 to the power of 0.75 and multiplying it by the puppy's weight in kilos.
If your dog weighs 12kg, for example, their RER will be 70(12g)0.75 = 450. As a result, they will consume roughly 900 calories per day.
The following is a feeding chart for Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies:
2-Week-Old Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy
Your puppy's eyes will have opened at two weeks old, and they will begin to notice their environment.
Your puppy is completely reliant on its mother's milk for sustenance at this age.
If the litter is large, keep an eye on the puppies to make sure they are getting enough milk.
If not, the puppies should be given the formula to augment their diet.
4-Week-Old Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy
The puppy is still dependent on the mother's milk at four weeks, but you can start introducing solid foods.
Using 34% water and 14% puppy food, make a mixture.
Give the puppy some food to see if they are interested, but if they aren't, give them some time.
6 Weeks Old Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy
Your puppy should be more interested in the food mixture around six weeks.
You can reduce the amount of water and raise the food quantity if they are eating well and are thrilled by the combo with no gastrointestinal problems.
The mother will continue to breastfeed them.
8 Weeks Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy
For most puppies, this is a big week because they can now be placed in new homes and separated from their littermates and mothers.
Your dog should be fully weaned and consuming puppy food at 8 weeks.
They should have 12 cup of food at each meal, four times a day.
10 Weeks Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy
You'll notice that your puppy has a lot of energy at 10 weeks.
Your puppy will be developing quickly and will require a lot of food.
Continue to feed them a 12-cup meal four times a day.
12 Weeks Old Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy
Your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy should be a vicarious eater full of energy and mischief at the age of twelve weeks.
You can feed them three to four times at this age, ranging from 12 to 1 cup of food every meal, depending on their appetite.
How To Take Care Of Your Rhodesian Ridgeback?
A dog raised to hunt lions, as you might assume, has tremendous physical strength.
The Rhodesian ridgeback has the large, muscular body required for this role, but because the breed also serves as a watchdog and protector, ridgebacks are generally gentle with children, though their sheer size means they can knock a small child over, so they shouldn't be allowed to play together unsupervised.
Because of the dog's size and demand for activity, you should consider adopting a Rhodesian ridgeback if you have a safe enclosed yard.
This is not a breed that would thrive in an apartment.
The breed may also be extremely independent, if not stubborn; if you are new to training dogs, you may want to start with the basics and book a series of training lessons.
1st step
Prior to the arrival of the dog, gather the essential equipment and accessories.
A large dog bed, high-quality dry food for large breeds, food and water dishes, a dog harness with leash, toys, chews, and grooming supplies are all necessary.
Book the initial veterinary examination and training sessions as well.
2nd step
Build a robust fence around your yard or a substantial section of your yard that is at least 6 feet tall.
This breed digs, so there's concrete on the bottom.
Your Rhodesian ridgeback should be able to exercise when he feels the need, in addition to daily walks.
Playing with him and practicing training activities in an enclosed yard is also a wonderful idea.
3rd step
For the first few days, feed the same diet as the animal sanctuary or breeder, then gradually introduce your chosen brand of food over the next few weeks.
This breed has no unique dietary requirements, thus any high-quality, balanced large-breed food should suffice.
For an elderly or ailing dog, your veterinarian can offer dietary suggestions.
4th step
Take your dog for daily hour-long or longer walks, preferably in an enclosed field or a dog park if he is well socialized with other dogs.
Rhodesian ridgebacks require a lot of activity as well as a lot of care.
Spend as much time with him as your schedule permits each day, and encourage other family members to do the same.
Play a variety of games.
Rhodesian ridgebacks, as hunting dogs, are likely to love pursuing games such as soccer or Frisbee.
For a rapid, exciting chase game, attach a toy to the end of a rope, knot the other end to a pole, and swing the toy.
Ridgebacks may benefit from lure chase training as well.
Keep in mind that such activities can stimulate the hunting urge, which isn't ideal if you have little pets.
Set clear rules for play, such as initiating and ending each game yourself, and stopping immediately if the dog becomes too rough or eager.
5th step
Give him a weekly grooming.
He only need brushing because he is a shorthaired breed.
Also, use a moistened cotton ball to clean his ears, which are huge and floppy in this breed.
Baths are only required if he becomes filthy outside.
Use a dog shampoo and avoid bathing your dog too often, since this removes oil from the coat and can cause dry, flaking skin.
Dietary Guidelines and Nutrients for Rhodesian Ridgeback
Because the Rhodesian Ridgeback is inherently slim and muscular, it need extra protein to maintain its appropriate body weight.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback requires more fat than other large breeds because it is an active dog.
To ensure that the protein and fat are digested, they should come from animals.
Carbohydrates are found in vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, which your dog requires.
The diet of Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies should contain at least 22% protein and 8% fat.
Also, seek for a meal with between 3% and 5% fiber and easily digestible carbohydrates.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppies’ Best Dog Food
Eukanuba Large Breed Puppy Dog Food
To grow into a robust and large dog, your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy requires proper diet to sustain their expanding, active bodies.
Eukanuba dry food provides balanced and complete nutrients to help your puppy's mind and body develop properly.
To help your puppy thrive, this large breed puppy food is made with high anima proteins, optimum calcium and phosphorus, DHA, and optimal carbohydrate and fat levels.
It also contains prebiotics, fiber, and vitamin E to assist your puppy start on the road to good health.
Pros
- Supports bone health and muscle strength.
- Supports the brain's proper growth.
- Aids in digestion.
- Aids in the development of the immune system.
Cons
- Some puppies have a harder time with kibbles.
Nutro Natural Choice Puppy Lamb & Brown Rice Dog Food
The Nutro Natural Dry Dog Food was created with large breeds in mind, such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
The first component in this dish is lamb, which is a wonderful source of protein.
This dry dog food contains omega-3 fatty acids, chondroitin, glucosamine, and important antioxidants to help your puppy's overall health.
The Nutro Natural dog food has no maize, poultry by-product meal, soy, or wheat and is non-GMO.
Pros
- Muscle development is aided by high-quality protein.
- Aids in the development of the eyes and the brain.
- Supports the health of the joints.
Cons
Some puppies have loose stools as a result of this.
Purina Pro Plan Puppy Dog Food
Purina Pro Plan Dry Dog Food will help your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy grow strong and big.
This dog chow is made for puppies who will weigh more than 50 pounds when they reach adulthood.
Purina Pro delivers all of the nutrients your dog requires during the puppy stage, when the majority of growth and development occurs.
To offer the proteins your puppy requires, the first ingredient in this recipe is chicken.
This diet also includes DHA from omega-rich fish as well as active probiotics.
Pros
- Aids in the development of vision and the brain.
- Supports the immune system.
- Aids in the digestion of food.
- Crispy kibble with a delicious flavor.
Cons
- Some packages are experiencing delivery delays.
Purina ONE SmartBlend Puppy Dog Food
Purina ONE SmartBlend is made with no fillers and only whole ingredients for big breeds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
This formula's first ingredient is chicken, which provides a nutritious supply of protein for your dog.
Rice and other easily digested ingredients have been added to this dry food to make it easier on your puppy's tummy.
Antioxidants including zinc, selenium, and vitamins A and E are also included.
This crunchy puppy kibble and protein-rich morsels help your dog keep in shape and maintain a good body condition with each serving.
The additional minerals, vitamins, and nutrients ensure that your puppy receives a balanced and complete diet.
Pros
- As kids play and race, it helps to support their expanding muscles.
- Aids in the development of healthy joints.
- Aids in the development of healthy vision and the brain.
- For sensitive stomachs, it aids digestion.
Cons
- Mold has infested some batches, causing them to deteriorate.
Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Dog Food
To support their busy and growing lives, start your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy's diet on a healthy path with Blue Buffalo Dry food.
Your puppy will get enough protein from the first component, which is tasty chicken.
This mix also includes DHA and ARA fatty acids, as well as a blend of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals chosen by holistic veterinarians and animal nutritionists to promote healthy oxidative balance and life stage requirements.
Pros
- Muscle strength is promoted.
- Supports the health of the kidneys and the development of the brain.
- Wheat, corn, soy, chicken by-product meals, artificial flavors, and preservatives are all prohibited.
Cons
- Some puppies get diarrhea as a result of this.
How Big Do Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppies Get Week by Week?
Genetics, nutrition, physical activity, and health all play a role in a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy's development.
It's impossible to estimate how much a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy will grow each week.
However, for the first 8 months, there is rapid growth, followed by a gradual increase until around the age of 14 months, when it flattens.
Your puppy's growth will be healthy if you feed them well-balanced food and give them enough of exercise.
Switching From Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy Food To Adult Food
It's time to move your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy to adult food when he or she reaches the age of nine months.
When your puppy matures into an adult dog, the extra nutrients required for growth are no longer required, and they require a new set of nutrients to sustain a healthy and happy lifestyle.
To avoid gastrointestinal issues, the changeover should be spread out over 7 to 10 days.
Reduce the amount of puppy food in your puppy's food and gradually replace it with adult food until the transition is complete.
Remember that each puppy has unique requirements; therefore, provide enough food for your puppy to maintain their ideal body condition.
What If My Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy Won’t Eat?
The loss of appetite in your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy may be sudden or develop over time.
There are a number of reasons why your puppy isn't eating, including the following:
- choosy eater
- Anxiety and stress
- Extremely hot temperatures
- Teething problems Digestive problems
When you discover your puppy isn't eating, the first thing you should do is take them to the vet for a medical examination.
This is because the loss of appetite could be caused by underlying issues.
If your puppy is healthy, though, you should consider switching their food gradually.
Add a food topper, some wet food, or a fish oil supplement to make the food more appealing.
Should You Feed A Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy Supplements?
An appropriate diet will offer your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy all of the vitamins and minerals he or she requires to reduce the severity and lessen breed-related health issues.
Dietary supplementation is a supplement to your puppy's diet that will improve their nutrition, especially if you are feeding them raw foods.
Supplementing your puppy's diet will feed, boost, and nourish them while also fine-tuning their nutritional intake.
Make sure the supplements you're giving your dog are made from natural materials and don't contain any synthetic compounds or chemicals.
Consult your veterinarian for advice on which vitamins are best for your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy.
Can You Give A Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy Free Food?
Your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy will have consistent access to food if you choose the free feeding approach.
This strategy allows your puppy to eat only when he or she is hungry, rather than being forced to eat when he or she is not.
It allows the puppy to choose how much food they want to eat.
This feeding system is simple and convenient, especially for busy families where the puppy may miss a meal.
This strategy, however, makes it difficult to train the puppy, and some puppies may not know when to stop eating, resulting in obesity.
If you're feeding your puppy dry kibble, free-feeding works best; however, moist foods degrade quickly if left out in the open for an extended period of time.
What is the recommended amount of water for a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy?
Your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy requires access to clean, fresh water at all times.
Water should be given to your puppy in a larger bowl than their meal bowl, and it should be replenished on a regular basis.
A steady supply of water will keep them hydrated throughout the day.
Most owners believe that they should limit their puppy's access to water throughout the day while they are at work to minimize accidents, but this can lead to bladder and renal problems.
Your Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy requires access to clean, fresh water at all times.
Water should be given to your puppy in a larger bowl than their meal bowl, and it should be replenished on a regular basis.
A steady supply of water will keep them hydrated throughout the day.
Most owners believe that they should limit their puppy's access to water throughout the day while they are at work to minimize accidents, but this can lead to bladder and renal problems.
If you are not at home throughout the day, locate someone to give your puppy water.
If you are not at home throughout the day, locate someone to give your puppy water.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Background Information
The Rhodesian Ridgeback's distinctive ridge that runs down his spine and gives him his name is frequently the first thing visitors notice about him.
The ridge exposes a part of his background, which includes a mix of European hunting dogs and African dogs with the distinctive ridge.
His great athleticism, noble carriage, and the intelligence in his gaze are also noted.
Owners are frequently asked, “Did they actually hunt lions?” because of the breed's history.
Yes, the Ridgeback was created in Africa to corner and hold large game animals like lions, bears, and boar.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is still employed for hunting today, and some breed members have even learned to point and retrieve.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is also a good hiking or jogging companion and competes in many canine sports such as agility, lure coursing, obedience, and tracking.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a lively and exuberant puppy, but as he grows older, he matures into a dog who requires modest activity.
Give him a vigorous walk or game of fetch a couple of times a day, plus a chance to run in a safe enclosed area once or twice a week, and he'll be content — at least in terms of physical activity.
This bright breed need mental stimulus as well: a bored Rhodesian Ridgeback might become destructive.
When it comes to strangers, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is dignified and reticent.
He's a quiet, friendly companion with his family, capable and prepared to defend his house and people if necessary.
He's not for everyone because of his stature, intelligence, and power.
He could be a lot more than a handful for first-time or cautious dog owners.
Those hoping for a friendly dog that will love everyone should keep looking.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback, on the other hand, maybe the ideal dog for you if you want a powerful, confident dog with tenderness, hardheadedness, and a sense of humor in a shorthaired, low-maintenance package.
Frequently Asked Question Rhodesian Ridgeback
How much should my Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy eat?
Your puppy will require more food as he matures. A four-month-old Ridgeback puppy will consume approximately 5-6 cups of kibble per day, with a maximum of 7-8 cups per day. Although most of us enjoy the thought of a fast-growing, rolly-polly puppy, over-nutrition should be avoided.
How do you take care of a Rhodesian Ridgeback puppy?
She doesn't require much grooming. At least once a week, brush her coat as needed. The teeth of Rhodesian Ridgebacks are usually healthy, and you can maintain them that way by brushing them at least twice a week! She's an intelligent dog with a lot of energy, so keep her mind and body busy or she'll become bored.
When should I switch my Rhodesian Ridgeback to adult food?
Medium-sized dogs (such the Australian shepherd and Border Collie) transition to adult food around 9-12 months, while large breeds (like the Bernese Sennenhundi and Rhodesian Ridgeback) transition to adult food between 8 and 12 months.
How much should a 3 month old Ridgeback eat?
Your dog should be fed TWICE a day after it reaches the age of three to four months. My average-sized people consume approximately 4 cups of food each day, with one cup consumed in the morning when I know they may have limited access to toilet breaks during the day if I am required to leave.
How much should a Rhodesian Ridgeback eat in a day?
2 3/4 to 4 3/8 cups of a high-quality food, divided between two meals, is the recommended daily quantity. The amount of food your adult dog consumes is determined by his size, age, build, metabolism, and degree of activity. Dogs, like people, are unique individuals who require different amounts of food.