Rhodesian Ridgeback Feeding Guide
Published by DosageGuide · Reviewed
How much to feed your Rhodesian Ridgeback, daily calories, portion sizes, and feeding schedule
A large-sized hound breed from South Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback ranks #35 with the AKC. The ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction along the spine is formed by two symmetrical crowns and is unique among AKC breeds. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a member of the Hound Group, dogs originally developed to track game using their exceptional sense of smell. Their feeding plan should account for their high energy output on tracking days. An adult Rhodesian Ridgeback needs between 1545 and 1787 calories per day, though this varies with age, weight, activity level, and individual metabolism.
An adult Rhodesian Ridgeback weighing 70 to 85 lb needs about 1545 to 1787 kcal a day, around 1667 kcal for a neutered dog at a healthy weight with moderate activity. On a dry food of 380 kcal per cup that is 4.1-4.7 cups daily, roughly 433 to 496 grams, split into two meals; on wet food alone, 6.2-7.1 cans of 250 kcal; on a raw diet, 22-41 oz of food, about 2-3% of body weight. Weigh the ration rather than measuring it by cup, since kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, count treats inside that total rather than on top of it, and keep them under ten per cent of the calories. A Rhodesian Ridgeback that gains or loses weight on these amounts needs a vet's opinion, not simply a different scoop: these figures are a starting point for a healthy dog, and they assume the 10-to-12-year life stage and activity level described below rather than pregnancy, illness or working days.
Two of the conditions this breed is screened for change how it should be fed, and the less common one matters more here because it is the one a general feeding guide never mentions. With bloat, split the daily ration into two or three meals, keep the dog quiet for an hour after eating, and learn the signs, an unproductive retch and a swelling abdomen, because the window to reach a vet is measured in hours. With elbow dysplasia, lameness after exercise rather than during it is the usual sign, and the feeding lever is the same as for any joint condition, which is keeping the dog at the lean end of its range. Neither is a reason to choose a different food off the shelf; both are reasons to weigh the ration rather than estimate it.
A third predisposition worth knowing is hypothyroidism: an underactive thyroid slows the metabolism, so a dog on the correct ration can still gain; if weight rises without more food, that is a reason to test rather than to cut the ration further. A Rhodesian Ridgeback that never develops any of these still benefits from the same habits, because the habits are simply good feeding practice made specific.
A short coat makes body condition visible, which is the one advantage that matters at feeding time: the waist and the ribs can be seen and felt without parting fur, so the weekly check takes seconds and needs no scale. For a Rhodesian Ridgeback, that is the check worth making weekly.
Males and females of this breed differ enough in size that one ration does not fit both: around 78 lb against 67 lb on average, a gap of 17 per cent. Feeding both from the same scoop overfeeds one and underfeeds the other, and the figures on this page should be read against the dog in front of you rather than against the breed average.
Plan on 1.1–1.7 cups of premium dry food daily for your adult Rhodesian Ridgeback, divided into morning and evening meals. Given this hound breed's predisposition to Hip Dysplasia, discuss dietary approaches that may help manage this risk with your vet. Males weigh 85 pounds and females around 70 pounds; they are muscular and athletic, not bulky..
Daily Calorie Needs for Rhodesian Ridgeback
Adult
1545-1787
kcal/day
Puppy (peak)
1547
kcal/day (6-9 mo)
Senior
1124-1300
kcal/day
Note: Feeding guidelines are estimates based on standard veterinary formulas. Every dog is different, consult your veterinarian for personalized advice.
Feeding Strategy for Rhodesian Ridgebacks
With an above-average energy level, the Rhodesian Ridgeback benefits from a feeding plan that balances calorie intake with their active lifestyle. Two measured meals per day totaling 4.1-4.7 cups of kibble provides steady energy without the blood sugar spikes of a single large meal. Choose a formula with at least 25% protein and moderate fat to support their daily activity.
Bloat Prevention for Rhodesian Ridgebacks
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are predisposed to Bloat (commonly known as bloat), one of the most serious emergencies in veterinary medicine. The stomach fills with gas and can twist on itself, cutting off blood supply. How you feed your Rhodesian Ridgeback directly impacts this risk. Deep-chested breeds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback are anatomically more susceptible, but proper feeding practices significantly reduce the odds.
Essential Feeding Practices
- Divide daily food into 2-3 smaller meals instead of one large feeding
- Use a slow-feeder bowl to prevent gulping air while eating
- Avoid vigorous exercise for at least 30-60 minutes before and after meals
- Keep your dog calm during and after mealtimes, excitement increases air swallowing
- Consider moistening kibble with warm water to reduce expansion in the stomach
- Avoid elevated bowls if your vet hasn't specifically recommended them
Rhodesian Ridgeback Feeding Schedule
Morning (7-8 AM)
2.1-2.4 cups kibble
Evening (5-6 PM)
2.1-2.4 cups kibble
Split Meals
Portion Sizes by Food Type
Daily Portions for Rhodesian Ridgeback
Based on average adult weight and activity level
| Food Type | Daily Amount | Calories | Frequency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Kibble | 4.1-4.7 cups | 1545-1787 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~380 kcal per cup |
| Wet Food | 6.2-7.1 cans | 1545-1787 kcal | 2 meals/day | ~250 kcal per 13oz can |
| Raw Diet | 22-41 oz | 1545-1787 kcal | 2 meals/day | 2-3% of body weight |
- Amount
- 4.1-4.7 cups
- Calories
- 1545-1787 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~380 kcal per cup
- Amount
- 6.2-7.1 cans
- Calories
- 1545-1787 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
~250 kcal per 13oz can
- Amount
- 22-41 oz
- Calories
- 1545-1787 kcal
- Frequency
- 2 meals/day
2-3% of body weight
Exercise & Feeding for Rhodesian Ridgebacks
The Rhodesian Ridgeback requires significant daily exercise, typically 60-90 minutes of vigorous activity. On high-activity days (hiking, running, dog sports), increase their food by 10-20% to compensate for the extra calorie burn. On rest days, stick to the baseline portion. Never feed a large meal within 30 minutes of intense exercise; instead, offer a small snack 2 hours before activity and the main meal 1 hour after.
Joint Health & Nutrition
Joint health is a primary nutritional concern for Rhodesian Ridgebacks, which are predisposed to Hip Dysplasia and Elbow Dysplasia. Diet plays a preventive and management role at every life stage. For puppies, controlled growth rate and proper calcium-phosphorus ratios protect developing joints. For adults, maintaining ideal body weight reduces mechanical stress on joints. Specific nutrients can slow cartilage degradation and reduce inflammation.
Recommended Joint Supplements
Thyroid Health & Diet
Hypothyroidism is a recognized concern in Rhodesian Ridgebacks, affecting metabolism, weight, coat quality, and energy level. A Rhodesian Ridgeback with untreated hypothyroidism may gain weight despite eating normal portions, develop a thin or dull coat, and become lethargic. If your Rhodesian Ridgeback shows these signs, a simple blood test can confirm the diagnosis. While thyroid medication (levothyroxine) is the primary treatment, dietary support matters: ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet, maintain strict portion control to prevent weight gain, and consider a weight-management formula if your dog is on thyroid medication but still struggling with weight.
Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Using a puppy formula designed for small breeds
Large and giant breed puppies need controlled calcium and phosphorus levels to prevent developmental orthopedic diseases. Always choose a large-breed puppy formula that supports slow, steady growth rather than rapid weight gain.
Feeding one large meal per day
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are at risk for bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus), a life-threatening emergency. Always split daily food into 2-3 smaller meals and avoid exercise immediately after eating. Consider an elevated bowl and a slow-feeder.
Not adjusting portions for activity level
An active Rhodesian Ridgeback that runs for 2 hours burns significantly more than one that had a lazy day. Track activity and adjust portions accordingly, up to 20% more on high-activity days, 10% less on rest days.
Skipping joint supplements until problems appear
For breeds predisposed to joint issues, preventive supplementation with glucosamine and omega-3 fatty acids can help protect cartilage before damage occurs. Starting these supplements early, even at 1-2 years old, is more effective than waiting for symptoms.
Not providing enough water alongside increased food
Active large breeds process significant amounts of food and need plenty of fresh water. Ensure your Rhodesian Ridgeback always has access to clean water, and consider adding water to kibble if hydration is a concern, especially after exercise.
Rhodesian Ridgeback-Specific Feeding Tips
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Breed-Specific Nutritional Needs
Based on health conditions common in Rhodesian Ridgebacks, consider these nutritional adjustments:
Glucosamine & Chondroitin
Add a joint supplement with glucosamine (500-1000mg) and chondroitin. Consider foods with added omega-3 fatty acids (EPA/DHA) to reduce inflammation.
Iodine & Selenium
Ensure adequate iodine and selenium in the diet. Weight management is important as hypothyroidism can cause weight gain.
Meal Frequency
Feed 2-3 smaller meals per day instead of one large meal. Use a slow-feeder bowl. Avoid exercise 30 minutes before and after meals.
Rhodesian Ridgeback Ideal Weight
Assessing your Rhodesian Ridgeback's body condition (healthy range: 70–85 lbs): Rib check: Run your hands along the ribcage, you should feel individual ribs under a slight fat layer. Overhead view: A defined waist should be visible between ribs and hips. Side profile: The abdomen should tuck upward behind the last rib. Overweight Rhodesian Ridgebacks face higher risks of Hip Dysplasia, joint problems, and shortened lifespan.
Male Rhodesian Ridgeback
70-85 lbs
32-39 kg
Female Rhodesian Ridgeback
59-74 lbs
27-34 kg
Related Guides
Feeding Guides for Similar Breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
An adult Rhodesian Ridgeback typically needs 1545-1787 calories per day, which translates to approximately 4.1-4.7 cups of dry kibble daily, split into two meals. However, this is a starting point, your specific dog's needs depend on their exact weight within the 70-85 lb range, activity level, metabolism, and whether they're spayed/neutered (which reduces calorie needs by about 20-30%).
Adult Rhodesian Ridgebacks should be fed twice a day, ideally 12 hours apart (morning and evening). Because this breed is at risk for bloat, splitting food into 2-3 meals is especially important, never feed the entire daily portion in one sitting. Consistent meal times help regulate digestion, blood sugar, and make house training easier.
Look for a food that lists real meat (not meal or by-products) as the first ingredient, contains 22-30% protein, and is formulated for large breeds. Large breed formulas have controlled calcium (1.0-1.5%) and phosphorus levels to support skeletal health. Weigh the food rather than measuring it by cup: kibble density varies by up to a third between brands, so the same cup can hold 80 or 120 grams.
Given the Rhodesian Ridgeback's predisposition to joint issues, consider: glucosamine HCl (500-1000mg/day), chondroitin sulfate, and omega-3 fish oil (EPA/DHA). Green-lipped mussel extract is also showing promise in studies. Many premium dog foods already include glucosamine, check your current food's label before adding supplements. Start joint support early (1-2 years old) for prevention rather than waiting for symptoms to appear. Always consult your vet before starting a supplement regimen.
Large breed Rhodesian Ridgeback puppies should transition to adult food between 12-15 months of age. The key is not to switch based on size alone, your puppy should be at or near their expected adult height. Transition gradually over 7-10 days, mixing increasing amounts of adult food with decreasing amounts of puppy food. Choose a large-breed adult formula with appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels.
Bloat (GDV) prevention through feeding: divide daily food into 2-3 meals rather than one; use a slow-feeder bowl; avoid vigorous exercise 30-60 minutes before and after meals; keep meal times calm; consider moistening kibble with warm water; and don't let your dog drink excessive water immediately after eating. While no feeding method guarantees bloat prevention, these practices significantly reduce the risk in susceptible breeds like the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Discuss prophylactic gastropexy with your vet, especially if you're getting a puppy.
Raw (BARF) diets are an option for Rhodesian Ridgebacks, with proponents citing shinier coats, cleaner teeth, and better digestion. A typical raw diet provides 2-3% of body weight daily, for a Rhodesian Ridgeback, that means roughly 22-41 oz per day. The diet should include muscle meat (70%), raw meaty bones (10%), organ meat (10%), and vegetables/fruits (10%). However, raw diets carry risks of bacterial contamination and nutritional imbalance if not properly formulated. Consult a veterinary nutritionist before switching.
A healthy adult Rhodesian Ridgeback weighs between 70-85 lbs (males: 70-85 lbs, females: 59-74 lbs). Use the body condition score (BCS) method: you should be able to feel ribs with light pressure but not see them, observe a visible waist when viewed from above, and notice an abdominal tuck from the side. If your Rhodesian Ridgeback exceeds 98 lbs or you can't feel the ribs, consult your vet about a weight management plan.
Feeding Guidelines Disclaimer
The feeding recommendations on DosageGuide.com are estimates based on standard veterinary nutrition formulas (RER = 70 × weight^0.75) and general guidelines from AAFCO and veterinary nutrition resources.
Every dog is unique. Actual calorie needs vary based on breed, metabolism, activity level, health conditions, spay/neuter status, and the specific food brand you use. Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice.
These guides are for general reference and do not replace professional veterinary guidance. Adjust portions based on your dog's body condition score and weight trends.