The Phu Quoc Ridgeback dog is exceptionally clever, trustworthy, loving, and a superb swimmer. There are three Ridgeback-type dog breeds: Rhodesian Ridgeback, Thai Ridgeback, and Phu Quoc Ridgeback.

Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a unique dog from the Vietnamese province of Kieng Giang and the island of Phu Quoc. It is one of the four native dog breeds of Vietnam. This dog is well-known for its fearlessness, intelligence, and quick wit. In contrast to other animals, it has a vertex along its spine, which gives the spine a distinct look.

The origins of this breed are the subject of various discussions. Many people think it originated in France and followed its owner to Vietnam, where it went lost on Phu Quoc Island decades ago. Others say, it originated in Thailand, where it accompanied Thai fishermen to Vietnam to harvest fish and trade.

Even with all of these possibilities, the origin of the breed is still not accepted due to a lack of proof. As a result, many dog lovers think that the Phu Quoc Ridgeback originated on the island of Phu Quoc.

Before exploring more about this beauty, check out this informative video.

Phu Quoc Ridgeback Breed Profile

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Quick Facts about Phu Quoc Ridgeback

Common Features and Traits

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback comes in various colors but the common ones are tiger brindle, yellow, and jet black while the most expensive and rare color among all of them is the tiger. 

It has a very proportioned body and will have a unique black spotted tongue. A wrinkled forehead, straight ears, black color eyes, a deep chest, and a curved tail are among the common body features of this dog.

According to experts, this dog has a tremendous amount of intelligence and is considered much smarter than the German Shepherd. It is a highly trainable dog and will obey any order after a few instructions of training. 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Intelligent, loyal, and affectionate
• Easy to train
• Excellent Working dog
• Protective
• Longer lifespan
• Social

Cons:

• Very rare
• Tend to be very expensive
• Only for active and experienced owners

Great hunters

These canines are renowned to be excellent hunters, particularly of mice. If it sees a mouse, the mouse has little to no chance of surviving. It won’t sit still until it has completed its hunt. If trained, the dog may also hunt other big animals such as deer and wild boar.

Surprising eating habit

An interesting fact about the Phu Quoc Ridgeback dog is that it will never eat food if given by another person than its owner. Even if another person tries to feed it, it will not eat a single piece of food nor will it touch it. So this dog will never be caught in the poisoning trap with ease.  

Sharp memory

Another astonishing feature of the breed is its extremely keen memory. This dog will remember things for a longer amount of time, especially its owner and the time spent with its family. If a dog is sold or given to another person, it will recognize its owner when it sees him again, even if it’s been a long time.

Close to nature

Because their ancestors spent decades on Phu Quoc Island, these canines are used to the sun, wind, and plenty of room. Adopt this dog only if you have plenty of room for it to run about and play. Furthermore, maintain this dog as near to nature as possible; otherwise, it may become unwell, refuse to eat, and could even die.

Bottom Line

Phu Quoc Ridgeback is a medium-size strong dog. It has a hound-like shape and is entirely different from other Ridgeback breeds. This dog runs very fast, swims pretty well, and can get well in both hot and cold weather circumstances.

These dogs are well known for their hunting and herding capabilities. They are considered to be one of the most expensive and rarest dog breeds in the World. Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are only found on Phu Quoc Island in Vietnam. 

Although it cost you around $260 in Vietnam, if you wish to adopt one and import it to your country, it would cost you a heavy amount.

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