Cambodian Razorback Dog Breed Details
Below are details and specs for the Cambodian Razorback dog breed.
Cambodian Razorback Dog Breed
Cambodian Razorback Dog
The Cambodian Razorback, although not known by that name in its homeland, is a breed found in the Mekong River Valley area of Cambodia; even in this area these dogs are rare. Christian Berger, originally an Oregon native, embarked on a project to form a distinct breed from similar dogs he found during his work and travel in Cambodia. Although not one of the 3 well known Ridgeback breeds, they do have a very pronounced "ridge" down their backs. They are said to make protective household guardians if trained and socialized very early and consistently. This breed is not recommended for a first time owner and may be aggressive to strange people or pets. Cambodian Razorbacks are natural outdoor survivalists that will be low maintenance (except for training) and should only be kept indoors if given sufficient daily exercise.
Cambodian Razorback Dog Breed Description
Cambodian Ridgebacks are muscular, powerful, agile dogs and are considered on the larger side of the "medium" category. Males are often around 20 inches at the shoulder but can be more; females are slightly smaller. Individuals generally weigh up to 60 pounds.
These dogs are considered a homeless "pariah" breed but are considered to be capable of family companionship if trained and socialized early. They are naturally protective and can make aggressive guard dogs as well as partners for hunters. Members of this breed are not recommended for households that are first time dog owners or are considering adding another pet.
Training and socialization must be undertaken early with this primitive breed. They need a firm, consistent owner to immediately take the alpha role and are not recommended for the first time owner. The long coat, surprisingly, does not cause these outdoor dogs to overheat and doesn't require much care.
Although rare, even in their native land (Lao border to the capital, Phnom Penh, Cambodia), some farmers in the Mekong River Valley use these dogs to protect their homes and livestock. Some notable traits include a long coat with a feathered tail and pronounced "ridge" down the spine, pricked ears, and short head with pronounced cheeks. Interestingly, their hair is unusually long for a Ridgeback and the ridge itself is around 2" long; coat color varies from solid to combinations of the following colors (with or without white): black, blue, brown and fawn.
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Updated:June 24, 2016