All breeds were bred for an original function, and although today most dogs are mainly pets, they will still maintain many of the same insticts for the purpose in which they were originally bred. When talking about the temperment of the Thai Ridgeback it must be remembered that the TRD has been used for centuries as a hunter, a guard, and a companion. They were often expected to provide for themselves and hunt on their own for food giving them a strong survival instinct and a very high level of intelligence.
In general, the TRD is a fun-loving dog with a "get up and go" attitude that seems to have a great joy for life. They are affectionate with their owners and seem to relish in the comforts of their homes. They are not high-strung, but do require their regular periods of exercise, but also seem to cherish the warmest and sunniest spot in the house, especially if it is your sofa or bed. If this is undesirable, it must be strictly enforced at a young age. With their short hair, they do not make good outside or kennel dogs.
Their use as a hunting dog seems to have contributed a great amount to their personalities. They are alert and aware of their surroundings, and love the thrill of the chase. They are quick, agile, and possess great jumping abilities. They need a fenced yard to prevent them from wandering in the pursuit of their "prey". If they are to live with small animals, proper introductions should be made, preferably at a young age. They then can live in harmony with their fellow housemates.
They were also expected to accompany their masters on hunting trips into the wilderness. In Asia, the wild boar was a predator that was highly feared by man. The TRD would accompany them on their hunting trips in packs of 5 or so dogs. If a wild boar was encountered, the owner would face the boar head on, the natural instinct of the dogs to protect their masters would be set off, and the Thai Ridgeback would move in for the kill. Today they still exhibit a natural instinct to protect their owners and family against harm.
The TRD is affectionate and playful with their owners, when they want it, they are often "very busy". Their attitude towards strangers can range from shy to aloof to very sociable. In general, they tend to be aloof with strangers and discriminating with whom they choose to associate. They can love one stranger and with another stranger totally ignore them. With time, they seem to warm up to everyone. It is very important that the young TRD gets a lot of early socialization, early being the key. In the first year, especially in the first four months, for this is the key time for socialization in a puppy, it is very important that the TRD puppy gets to meet many people and is exposed to as many situations as possible. This is key to a happy and well adjusted TRD, as well as consistent and proper training.
In training the TRD, the key to success is utilizing the proper methods. Motivation and flexibility are both important. A TRD likes to think about what is being asked and then decide if it is in their best interest to do it. They must be encouraged through positive reinforcement methods and do not do well with heavy handed corrections such as leash jerking. They can easily become stubborn and defiant if improper methods are employed. If done properly though, they show a great eagerness to please, are quick learners, and display a high level of intelligence.
When considering a Thai Ridgeback, ask yourself what you expect from your dog. How much time can you dedicate to your dog? To be a well adjusted member of your family and society, they will need socialization and training. Some breeds will fit into a home successfully with the only training ever being housebreaking, a Thai Ridgeback will not. If you dedicate the time for training and learn to communicate with your dog properly, you will be rewarded with a dog that will win your heart over and over again!!
It truly is a unique and magnificent breed!