The Rhodesian Ridgeback is listed in the „Agony breeding report“ due to the occurrence of the genetic defect Dermoid Sinus (DS) in Germany (and Austria). 

Extract from the „Qualzuchtgutachten“ of the Federal Ministry of Food, Agriculture and Forestry (report on the interpretation of § 11b of the Animal Welfare Act) from 1999 (current status: 26.10.2005): 

2.1.1.1.4 Dermoid / Dermoid cysts

Definition:
Skin invaginations on the back which can extend into the spinal canal.
 
Vorkommen:
Rhodesian Ridgeback

Symptoms:
The Dermoid Cysts occur on the back in front of and behind the "ridge" (hairline with opposite growth). They develop embryonically from an imperfect or absent separation of skin and spinal cord. If the connection to the spinal canal and spinal cord remains, this can lead to posthand paralysis and hyperesthesia (hypersensitivity). In addition changes occur (meningitis, myelitis) due to infections.

Recommendation:
Animals with Dermoid Cysts should not be bred because the offspring are likely to suffer pain and suffering.

Of course, Rhodesian Ridgebacks that have a Dermoid Sinus may not be bred. 

The problem is, that these trait carriers have been excluded from breeding for many years and the percentage of puppies born with a Dermoid Sinus that require surgery has not changed much.

A few years ago, a German vet proudly posted on Facebook that he had operated on his 1000th dermoid sinus (he alone - and there are numerous vets in Germany who make this surgery). Unfortunately, this clearly shows that the issue of DS is not as small as it is always made out to be.