Dogs have been a part of human life for thousands of years, and yet there are still many mysteries surrounding them. One of the most intriguing is the presence of ridges on the backs of some breeds of dogs. These ridges, known as “dermal ridges”, are found on the backs of certain breeds of dogs, such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback, the Thai Ridgeback, and the Phu Quoc Ridgeback. But why do these dogs have them?
The answer lies in the evolutionary history of these breeds. Dermal ridges are believed to be a result of selective breeding, which was used to create the distinctive look of these breeds. The ridges are thought to have been developed to help protect the dogs from predators, as they provide a more streamlined shape that makes it harder for predators to grab onto the dog. The ridges also help to protect the dog’s skin from the sun, as they provide a layer of insulation.
The ridges are also believed to have been developed to help the dogs move more efficiently. The ridges provide a more aerodynamic shape, which helps the dogs move faster and with greater agility. This is especially important for breeds that were bred for hunting, such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback.
The ridges are also thought to have been developed to help the dogs regulate their body temperature. The ridges provide a layer of insulation, which helps the dogs stay cool in hot climates. This is especially important for breeds that were bred to live in tropical climates, such as the Thai Ridgeback.
Finally, the ridges are also believed to have been developed to help the dogs communicate with each other. The ridges provide a tactile surface that allows the dogs to communicate with each other through touch. This is especially important for breeds that were bred to work in packs, such as the Phu Quoc Ridgeback.
So, while the exact reason why some breeds of dogs have dermal ridges is still a mystery, it is believed that the ridges were developed to help the dogs survive in their environment. The ridges provide protection from predators, help the dogs move more efficiently, regulate their body temperature, and communicate with each other. So, the next time you see a dog with ridges on its back, you can be sure that it is a result of thousands of years of selective breeding.