Straight answers on kids and barking, from the American Kennel Club's own ratings of the Rhodesian Ridgeback. We only answer where the rating is clear.
Yes. The AKC rates the Rhodesian Ridgeback 5 out of 5 for being good with young children and 5 out of 5 for affection with family. Any dog still needs supervision around small children, and children need to learn how to treat a dog.
AKC rating: Good with young children 5/5 · Affectionate with family 5/5 · AKC Rhodesian Ridgeback page
No, it is usually a quiet dog. The AKC rates the Rhodesian Ridgeback 2 out of 5 for barking — it tends to bark mainly to alert you.
AKC rating: Barking level 2/5 · AKC Rhodesian Ridgeback page
Not answered here: other dogs, first-time owners, apartments, shedding — the AKC rating sits in the middle or doesn't match our own, so the honest answer is "it depends on the individual dog". Read the full Rhodesian Ridgeback guide.
Which breeds suit kids, apartments, first-time owners →
Breed ratings describe the typical dog. Every dog is an individual, and upbringing, training and socialisation matter as much as breed. Scores from the American Kennel Club, last checked November 3, 2026.
