i thought that ridgebacks were fearless but when i bought one from my vet who is a breeder,i noticed she is afraid of people and any sudden movements.she has been at my house for 5 days and she still spends most of her time hiding.she is 14 weeks old .any advice?

Like humans dogs are all individuals and many need to be introduced to new things gradually where others will barge in regardless and stop to think about it when they are getting out of whatever pickle they have got themselves into.

Be matter of fact with your pup, don't push her but let her explore her ever increaseing world at her own pace.  One think not to do is reassure her when she appears nervous as this will appear to confirm to her that she has something to worry about.

What happened when she was with her breeder - did she get much socialisaiton or were the pups left on their own all day while their owner was at work?

They didn't socialise much,a worker was feeding them and would only appear at feeding time or to clean the kennel.They were never let out of the enclosure of their kennel.

Sure this is lack of socialisation whilst young, it is thought that dogs go through period when new experiences worry them a good deal and the 12 to 14 week one is one of those times. Treat the dog in a matter of fact way and slowly try to introduce new things to it, but don't force the issue. You may find that the pup will be a bit better in a couple of weeks and you will then be able to get on with the socialisation. It is important that a dog like the R/R is not scared when it is adult, so good luck and let us know how it goes.

How awful! and this is a vet well i wont say any more........

Just what I was thinking Corso Girl - but then vets 'know everything'....... :(

The vet is very silly for breeding a Ridgeback without plenty of socialisation as the others have said. Do grab a copy of "ThePerfect Puppy" by Gwen Bailey as it will really help with some great tips and everyday bits and pieces and also help you cope with adolescence. It's available from www.Crosskeysbooks.com if you can't get it from your pet shop.

I am sure it will turn out OK if you get going now but don't force the pup to face new situations, to the point where it becomes too scared.

Hopefully it has had its first vaccinations, but if not it is vital that you don't wait and at least take it out in the car and get friends round (they can ignore the pup if it is at all worried and drop bits of food on the floor to start the pup associating people and visitors with pleasant experiences).

best wishes
Lindsay

thank you all for your wonderful pieces of advice.it is already doing slightly better.

ridgebacks are totally fearless but they are also extremely intelligent dogs.probably one of the most intelligent dogs there are.they are also very sensitive.start to train and socialise sooner rather than later as ridgebacks are quite large dogs when fully grown.you would benefit greatly by contacting the rhodesian ridgeback club of great britain who would be able to give you details of any members near to you.they would be able to give you advise and support and would be more than pleased to do so.I took on a rescue ridgeback from their breed rescue.her name is gypsie and I have had her now for nearly nine years.at first she was very timid but with lots of love and affection took about 18 months to come round.she will quite happily walk up to anyone and put her head in the shopping basket just to see whats in there.she loves children but unfortunatly not all other dogs.none of us are perfect either.so good luck to you as you will discover they really are a very loyal dog and totally devoted to their owners.enjoy. 

I would also get her enrolled in reputable puppy classes where she will mix with dogs and people.  Tell the person doing the classes her history before you go.  Being such a large and powerful dog, she needs as much socialisation as possible at this stage - fear aggression in any dog is difficult to cope with; with a large breed, it is very difficult and makes walking a nightmare.