Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog
A Nice Mix of Loyalty and Courage!
Background and Description
The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog is a native breed of South Africa and is believed to be descended from dogs kept by the Hottentots
around the 15th century. Prior to that time, their heritage is speculative, possibly originating in Asia.
As
European immigrants arrived, bringing various dogs with them, their dogs were ultimately interbred with the Ridgeback.
Some of the breed stock most likely included Terriers, Greyhounds, Grand Danes, Pointers, Mastiffs, Salukis, and other breeds.
Sometimes referred to as the safari dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback dog was developed to hunt big game, including lions,
earning them the right to be esteemed for their courage. In the United States, they have been used on hunts of wild boar,
mountain lions, bear, deer, and coyote, using their keen abilities of sight and scent.
The "ridgeback" part of
their name refers to a strip of very coarse hair growing down their spine in the opposite direction from the main coat.
This physical characteristic is unique to this breed and some experts say it is could be a confirmation of the link to the Hottentots Dog - now extinct.
They are a strong and good-looking dog with an athletic build.
Rhodesian Ridgebacks - Appearance:
Height: 24-27 inches Weight: 65-75 lbs.
Color variations: Light Wheaten to Red Wheaten
Coat and Care:
Rhodies have a short, dense and sleek coat that sheds little and has minimal odor. Weekly brushing will keep the coat
in good order. Bathing is required very occasionally, but ears and nails should be given more regular care.
Ears of the folded over type, such as this breed's, are always more prone to ear problems such as mites or infections
making frequent
ear cleaning advisable.
Personality and Traits:
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are affectionate and loyal to their owners. Although they have a even temperament and seldom bark
without reason, they are ever alert and ready to protect the family.
Rhodies are blessed with high intelligence and
have minds of their own. For this reason, obedience training is strongly recommended to establish your role as the "alpha
presence". This dog needs strong leadership, otherwise, they will happily rule the roost. However, on the plus side, they are
very responsive to training and once this is accomplished, will become a very obedient companion.
Activity Level:
Daily exercise is a must for the Rhodesian Ridgback dog. If you are a jogger or hiker, Rhodies will be more than happy to join you. They are very
athletic dogs with lots of stamina.
Space Needs:
The Rhodie is one of the hound dog breeds that
is adaptable to either house or apartment, as long as there is access to an outside area for them to run.
Children:
Best with older mature children, who can establish leadership with the dog. They can be over-whelming for young children.
As with any breed of dog, we recommend that owners always have an adult present when pets and children are interacting.
Elderly:
Being very loyal and adaptable, the Rhodesian Ridgeback dog makes an excellent companion dog, providing their exercise needs
can be met.
Further Reading:
Complete Rhodesian Ridgeback DogUseful advice about selecting a Ridgeback, health and genetics, general care and
nutrition, temperament, the versatile Ridgeback (other things you can do with your dog. Also covers origins of the
breed in Africa, and its uses there, as well as the Ridgeback in America, Britain, and worldwide.
Share Your Dog Pictures
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as well as all your family photos.
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