Phu Quoc Ridgeback
The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is the rarest of the three ridgeback breeds — found only on Phu Quoc Island off the coast of Vietnam.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
Vietnam
Lifespan
14–16 years
Weight
14–22 kg (31–48 lbs)
Height
48–55 cm (19–22 in)
Diet
Omnivore — traditional island diet of fish and rice. High-quality protein-rich diet appropriate.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is the rarest of the three ridgeback breeds — found only on Phu Quoc Island off the coast of Vietnam. The island's isolation has preserved a genetically distinct dog population for centuries. The Phu Quoc is the only ridgeback breed that has webbed feet — an adaptation for swimming in the island's coastal waters, where the dogs were used for fishing and hunting. It is considered a national treasure of Vietnam and export restrictions limit its availability outside Vietnam.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
A medium-sized, lean, athletic dog with webbed feet, a dorsal ridge, and a short, smooth coat. The tiger-striped brindle pattern is the most distinctive colour variety. The overall build is athletic and slightly lighter than the Thai Ridgeback.
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Low
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Loyal, intelligent, and energetic — bonds closely with its family. Athletic and loves water. Independent in character. Strong prey drive.
Living Profile
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •1.5–2 hours exercise daily including swimming opportunities. Low grooming. Warm climate adapted.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Health Overview
Very limited health data due to the breed's rarity outside Vietnam. Dermoid sinus possible. Generally considered a robust, healthy primitive breed.
Common Conditions
Fun Facts
The Phu Quoc Ridgeback is the only dog breed in the world with both a dorsal ridge AND fully webbed feet — the webbing between the toes is more pronounced than in any other breed, reflecting the island's coastal hunting and fishing lifestyle.
Phu Quoc Island is now a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, and the Phu Quoc Ridgeback is classified as a national cultural heritage animal of Vietnam.
