The breed was originally a landrace developed as a semi-feral companion to hunt for food and guard the homes of native islanders.

[7][8] Historically, Phu Quoc Ridgebacks were not purposefully bred, instead relying on random pairings in the relative isolation of island life to continue to maintain their unique population.

[9] Unfortunately, purebred examples became scarce after the introduction of non-native dogs to the island, with many French writers noting that the breed was near extinction by the turn of the 20th century.

[15][16] The breed was selected as the mascot for the 2018 annual Nguyen Hue Flower Street in Ho Chi Minh City, symbolizing the lunar Year of the Dog as per the Vietnamese zodiac.

[1] As hunting dogs, they are known for their versatility, working both individually and in packs to take down a variety of prey including mice, fish, deer, and water buffalo.

The ridgeback phenomenon develops when the neural tube forms in embryogenesis, leading to the characteristic hair follicle orientation.

[22] After ascending the throne, King Gia Long, when bestowing titles and rewards to his generals, did not forget to confer an honorary title upon the four Phu Quoc dogs: "Cứu khổn phò nguy Tá quốc huân thần Thần khuyển đại tướng quân", which translates to "The Great General of Divine Dogs, who saved the nation and assisted the king during times of peril."