Vietnamese Phú Quốc Ridgeback Dogs

of Southern California

THE PHÚ QUỐC RIDGEBACK

DOG BREED

The Phu Quoc dog is considered a primitive hunting hound and is a rare breed both inside and outside of Vietnam. After the Vietnam war, the breed was close to extinction and only numbered in the few hundreds on Phu Quoc Island. With conservation efforts, their number rose to 700-800 purebreds in the past few decades. Currently, there are only a few thousand documented purebred Phu Quoc dogs worldwide.


The Phu Quoc breed is known for speed, agility, and intelligence. They are not recommended for first-time dog owners because they require structure, routine, discipline, clear communication and consistency, which new dog owners may not be familiar or experienced in rendering to dogs. They are only partially domesticated in a sense that they are allowed to roam free and to follow their instinct and impulses on the island in their natural habitat, and are not kept indoors as we keep pets in the US. They will require an pro-active, motiviated owner, as they will generally require consistent obedience training and lots of exercises to keep their bodies busy and minds engaged.

PERSONALITY

Phu Quoc Ridgebacks are energetic, athletic dogs, found predominantly on Phu Quoc Island, a small island in Southern Vietnam. This breed was used to guard the house and accompany hunters to hunt small prey. Because they are independent, oftentimes, they hunt on their own and will bring their spoils home to their masters. As puppies, they have boundless energy, but with proper exercise and training, they can grow into quiet, dignified housemates. They are not for the novice dog owner, as it takes a lot of patience, time and energy to properly train this breed. However, for those who are experienced, motivated and who are already committed to an active lifestyle, the Phu Quoc Ridgeback can be the ideal family dog.

ACTIVITY REQUIREMENTS

This breed needs a lot of vigorous exercise to maintain health, happiness and an even temperament. Because Phu Quoc Ridgebacks have their roots in Vietnam, they can withstand a lot of activity in very high temperatures and humidity without slowing down. They require several walks a day and plenty of time to run outdoors. They are athletic enough to jog or accompany bikers and hikers. The older they get, the less running they require, but they will always need daily activity. Without proper exercise, this breed can become anxious and destructive.


Hunters can use Phu Quoc Ridgebacks in the field to track and point for small game, or to track and corner large game; they hunt well alone or in a pack. Non-hunting families should enroll their Ridgebacks in organized activities like agility or tricks. They make excellent hiking and camping companions, happy to engage in outdoor fun and will guard you faithfully while you picnic or sleep.

TRAINABILITY

Training a Phu Quoc Ridgeback can be a challenge if you are not clear, precise and consistent. Phu Quoc dogs learn quickly but will will find loopholes to your set rules. Remember to be patient and consistent, and you will achieve results.  Phu Quoc dogs must be trained with firmness to establish leadership, but never with harshness. 100% consistency is crucial when training because Phu Quoc ridgebacks will constantly test boundaries to see what they can get away with.

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