Tall, toned and totally unmissable, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are the strong, silent type. With their smooth coat, athletic build, and signature ridge of backwards-growing hair, these dogs aren’t just good-looking. They’re loyal, dignified and seriously sweet. But even lion-hunters can end up at the vet, and that’s where pet insurance for Rhodesian Ridgebacks can help with eligible veterinary costs.
Home » Dog Insurance » Dog Insurance for Rhodesian Ridgebacks
Nikki LevinTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Absolutely incredible service to the absolute highest standard. Pay back is immediate, gap cover is accepted, and in general the nicest most caring humans. I could not support my precious dog without their support. Could not recommend highly enough. Jen WebsterTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. My normally very healthy, happy 16th month old chihuahua suddenly became very ill and had to be rushed to the animal hospital. After lots of tests and an overnight stay plus a week of strong antibiotics, she is now back to her normal lovely self. PIA accepted all the claims and processed the payments whilst I was still at the hospital. I could not be happier with the service I received from PIA. Simone RichardsonTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Only need to pay the gap, prompt claims and high proportion of costs covered- wouldn’t be without - so grateful for PIA for our golden retriever- wouldn’t be without - highly recommend! Brad DeasTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. We have been insured with Pet Insurance Australia for our dog Ella for about 4 years now. The claiming process is extremely easy online and we usually receive our rebate within a day or so. Most recently we attended Sash Veterinary Hospital and they were able to process our claim for us so we only had to pay the gap payment. I would highly recommend Pet Insurance Australia. Personal GmailTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. PIA have become one of the best in their field. I highly recommend them, in fact many of my friends have signed up after my recommendation. Richard Taylor (artywah)Trustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Our dog has had to undergo specialist cancer treatment and ongoing follow-up care. The PIA claims process has been easy to manage and has offered peace of mind for the cost of treatment Bianca BonnyTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Great Experience for my Beaglier Daisy! Easy, Stressfree and the whole team is great! Highly recommend Diane McKayTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Excellent. Never a problem. Claims paid promptly. Jeffrey MarcTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Very easy process to claim and fast reimbursement. It has been a massive help with helping our dog with his allergies. Very happy with them.Google rating score: 4.7 of 5, based on 471 reviewsVerified by TrustindexTrustindex verified badge is the Universal Symbol of Trust. Only the greatest companies can get the verified badge who has a review score above 4.5, based on customer reviews over the past 12 months. Read more
The Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred in southern Africa to track and hold big game (including lions!) without flinching. A mix of European hunting gods and local ridged Khoikhoi dogs, they were built for stamina, brains, and bravery.
Modern Ridgebacks haven’t lost their edge. While they’ve swapped the wild plains for parks and backyards, they still carry that self-assured presence and work ethic. Behind the quiet confidence is a dog loyal to the core and stubborn enough to keep you on your toes.
Our dog insurance plans offer coverage for up to 90%* of eligible vet bills, a 21-day cooling-off period, friendly customer service, and the added perk of 2 months free on any new pet insurance plans.
Ridgebacks are a whole mood! Calm at home yet athletic and adventurous outside, they’re independent thinkers with a strong will. They will bond hard with their humans but often keep strangers at paw’s length—no dramas, just natural wariness.
They need early training, firm boundaries, and heaps of exercise. They’re not ideal for first-timers but a dream for experienced dog owners who want a dog with heart, guts, and personality.
With Rhodesian Ridgeback’s common health issues, including joint, skin, and thyroid conditions, many families choose insurance for their Rhodesian Ridgeback to stay one step ahead.
Average Height
63 – 69cm
Average Weight
32 – 41kgs
Temperament
Loyal, independent, reserved, intelligent, strong-willed
Lifespan
10 – 12 years
Known Genetic Issues
Hip & Elbow Dysplasia, Dermoid Sinus, Hypothyroidism, Bloat, Tumours
Country of Origin
Southern Africa (modern-day Zimbabwe)
Exercise Requirements
With lots of energy to burn, Ridgebacks need daily walks and runs and love a good bush bash.
Coat
Ridgebacks have a short, dense, low-maintenance coat, with a distinctive ridge of hair growing in reverse along their spine.
Coat Colours
From light beige to deep red, sometimes with white on their chest and toes.
Specific Care Requirements
Early training and socialisation are key for this breed. Regular vet checks are essential to monitor for Rhodesian Ridgeback health issues. They need a firm but loving owner with time and energy to spare.
Due to their large size, Ridgebacks can develop Hip or Elbow Dysplasia, which causes pain and lameness over time. Depending on the severity, treatment ranges from medication to surgery.
This is a serious, fast-moving condition in which the stomach fills with gas and twists. Ridgebacks, being a deep-chested breed, are more prone to bloat. It needs urgent vet attention.
Common in Rhodesian Ridgebacks, this occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to low energy, weight gain and coat issues. It’s managed with daily medication and vet supervision.
Dermoid Sinus is a birth defect where a tube-like tract forms under your Ridgeback’s skin. Surgery is usually the best option, as infections can occur if left untreated.
Mass Lesions are any lumps, bumps, or tumours that grow on your Ridgeback, whether internal or external. While not all are serious, vet checks, biopsies, and possible removal will help spot and treat the dangerous ones.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks may look like they can handle anything, but even they need backup sometimes. With a few well-known Rhodesian Ridgeback common health issues and their sheer size and strength, it’s smart to explore your options for Rhodesian Ridgeback insurance that fits your lifestyle.
At Pet Insurance Australia, we offer flexible cover, quick claims, and friendly support for every stage of your Ridgeback’s life. Get a quote today and discover how pet insurance for your Rhodesian Ridgeback can help you prepare for—from daily adventures to unexpected vet visits.
1 - Terms & Conditions Apply. 2 Month Offer Terms & Conditions can be viewed by clicking here
2 - Depending on your level of cover. Policy T&Cs, limits, exclusions, waiting periods and excess may apply.
3 - You may be eligible for a higher limit; if so, this will be specified in your certificate of insurance.
4 – Applies per Policy Period and is deducted from the benefit payable to you, depending on the cover option chosen. Please note the $600 excess option is not available with a 70% benefit percentage.
5 – T&Cs Apply. MyPetPass® is a rewards programme provided by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923 (PetSure). Available to holders of active policies. myPetPass® perks are provided by PetSure and third-party suppliers and also subject to these third-party suppliers’ terms and conditions. myPetPass® perks may be amended or withdrawn any time without notice. PetSure does not guarantee that any particular third-party providers will continue to participate in myPetPass® through the offer or provision of perks, or that the myPetPass® rewards programme or any myPetPass® perks or features of myPetPass® will continue to be available. Full Terms & Conditions available at mypetpass.com.au/terms.
6 – After all documentation received.
7 - A separate limit applies to the non-insurance Routine Care item. Routine Care limits apply to specific routine care items. Click here for more info.
8 - There is a 6-month waiting period for cruciate ligament claims. This waiting period may be waived at our discretion. For details on the waiver process, refer to the applicable Product Disclosure Statement.
9 - Terms & Conditions Apply. 3 Month Offer Terms & Conditions can be viewed by clicking here
10 - Live Vet Support is a service provided by PetSure that gives you 24/7 access to general veterinary telehealth advice for your insured pet(s) via online video or chat, via the Customer Portals owned and operated by PetSure. Access to Live Vet Support consultations subject to the Customer Portal terms of use.
11 - Available at participating vets, find your nearest GapOnly® Vet at gaponly.com.au. The gap is the difference between the vet’s invoice and the eligible claim benefit under your pet insurance policy. GapOnly® is a trademark owned by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183. GapOnly® is available on eligible claims at participating vets with a pet insurance policy from a GapOnly® pet insurance partner.
12 - A 5% discount off your second pet insured, 10% discount off your third pet insured, 15% discount off your fourth and subsequent pets insured. For full terms and conditions of this discount, click here
13 - Policy T&Cs, Booster Care limit, applicable benefit percentage, waiting periods and exclusions apply. Annual excess may apply.
14 - Policy T&Cs, limits, exclusions and waiting periods apply. Annual excess may apply.
15 - Depending on the level of cover chosen
Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time prior to 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by The Hollard Insurance Company Pty Ltd ABN 78 090 584 473, AFSL 241436, arranged and administered by PetSure (Australia) Pty Ltd ABN 95 075 949 923, AFSL 420183 (PetSure) and promoted, distributed and arranged by PetSure’s Authorised Representative (AR) Pet Insurance Australia Pty Ltd ABN 85 113 507 850, AR 326233 (PIA). Pet Insurance Australia policies entered into for the first time on or after 8 May 2023 and subsequent renewals of those policies are issued by PetSure and promoted, distributed and arranged by PetSure’s AR, PIA. Any advice provided is general only and does not take into account your individual objectives, financial situation or needs. Please consider the Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) to ensure this product meets your needs before purchasing, or choosing to continue with the product. the PDS and Target Market Determination available at petinsuranceaustralia.com.au.
We understand that there are times when our customers may be feeling vulnerable due to a range of factors. In these situations, we are committed to taking extra care and recognise these vulnerabilities can give rise to unique needs, which can change over time or in response to particular situations. If you are experiencing vulnerability and would like more information on the extra care we can provide please email us on [email protected]. You can also access our underwriter’s Family Violence Policy here, and their website also contains additional accessible ways you can contact us.