The Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog

The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog gets its name from the unique ridge of hair running down the middle of its back. The ridge stands in the opposite direction of the rest of its coat. The breeds as we know it today was developed by cross breeding German Mastiffs, Great Danes, and Bloodhounds with its previous ancestors that were native to South Africa. Before the Europeans arrived, the breed was used to protect flocks and herds.

After the arrival of Europeans, the breed that emerged was also used to protect homesteads and to hunt large animals including lions, leopards, and hyenas. In true hound fashion the Rodesian Ridgeback dog does not attack its prey, but rather hunts them down and keeps them at bay until the hunter arrives. It was well suited for hunting since it could cover vast amounts of territory and could go for long distances without water. With its excellent vision and sense of smell it could detect the approach of either animal or human.

A breed standard was set in Rhodesia in the 1920's that became the basis for the current standard. The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog was introduced to North America in the 1950's and was recognized by the AKC in 1980. This large, powerful, and well muscled hound dog has become popular because of its versatility, loyalty, and good looks.

The owner of a Rhodesian Ridgeback dog must be a firm leader who is consistent and patient. Pampering or spoiling may create a dog that lacks confidence. Nervous, submissive, and overbearing people should avoid this breed. The elderly and the disabled should also consider a different breed.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog at a Glance

Origin South Africa - 1800's

Original Use Herding and hunting

Use Today Companion and guarding

Temperament The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog is a versatile hunter and a dedicated guardian. It is strong willed and should received consistent, firm, and fair obedience training starting from a young age. This breed is too large, strong, and intelligent to allow it to dominate. It may bond with only one person in the family and will be extremely devoted to that individual, though it will be a protector to all family members.

Acceptance of: Other Dogs - Not very accepting

Other Pets - Not very accepting unless raised with them.

Strangers - Not very accepting
Children - Accepting of children but may be too energetic for younger children.

Watchdog Ability With a strong sense of smell, this breed makes an excellent watch dog.

Guard dog Ability Excellent

Ease of Training Average

Living Conditions It is not suited for urban living, since it needs a lot of daily exercise and room to patrol while using the guarding instincts it has inherited. It can live outdoors in most moderate climates.

Exercise The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog requires daily mental and physical exercise. Physical exercise can be met by a long walk or jog.

Coat Its coat is short, dense, and glossy.

Grooming Requires minimal grooming.

Colors It comes in any variation of red to light wheaten. Its nose may be black or brown.

Height and Weight Weight range is 65 to 85 pounds (29.5 to 38.5 kg) while the height range is 24 to 27 inches (61 to 68.6 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.

Life Expectancy 11 to 13 years.

Group The AKC places the Rhodesian Ridgeback dog in the hound group.

A final note: It is not a good idea to buy two Rhodesian Ridgebacks from the same litter. Litter mates tend to bond closely with each other and will often openly disobey the owner in favour of pack loyalties.

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