Understanding the Phu Quoc Ridgeback Temperament: How Do They Behave Towards Strangers?

"Aloof, pleasant/friendly, never aggressive."

– PQRA Breed Standard.

The Phu Quoc Ridgeback standard calls for an aloof dog. This term has been used frequently for a notable number of breeds, both primitive and modern alike. Aloofness typically manifests as disinterest, neutrality, and can even border on suspicion until proper introductions are made.

Fawn urajiro PQR stares intently at strangers passing by in Vietnam

It should be stated that "aloof" does not mean aggressive or fearful. A Phu Quoc Ridgeback is expected to alert to strange people on the property, but accept them without issue if those strangers are deemed as guests by their owners. Dogs that are unable to do so are labeled nuisances and, thus, don't tend to be bred.

This isn't to say that they typically blindly accept new people, however. PQRs are naturally suspicious of new things. It's a part of the self-preservation that primitive breeds are known for. This suspicion often manifests as soft "warning" barks, with the dog keeping its distance and watching the stranger(s) until they decide, either through their owner's command or their own reasoning, that the stranger is safe and allowed in their space.

It's crucial for owners to give their Phu Quoc Ridgeback clear expectations when it comes to their behavior towards new people. Focus on building neutrality by rewarding the behavior you are wanting to see more of. This is why a strong working bond is key in raising this breed – if they haven't decided that your way is best, they will follow their own, which can lead to trouble. With a solid bond, a PQR will accept any person their owner asks them to.

Loyalty is a key trait in this breed, and as such, these bonds are formed with a lucky few (primarily one person). This circle of friends is quite small, though it will have room to grow. With repeated exposure and their owner’s acceptance of each individual guest, PQRs tend to not only accept visitors, but may show affection towards them (on their own terms, of course). 

Brindle PQR watches the outside world from the safety of its owner's property in Vietnam

The best way to introduce yourself to a PQR as a stranger is to completely ignore them and let them approach you when they are ready. If you present yourself as pushy or overzealous, they will likely decide you are not worth the trouble and you will have to work that much harder to gain their trust. Not to mention, for many PQRs, even food is not enough to earn a fast-pass into their inner circle. Only time and respectful, calm greetings make the biggest difference.

For those of us who own this incredible breed, their aloof and loyal nature is part of what endears them to us!