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History
The origins of the Rhodesian Ridgeback can be traced from the
crossbreeding of the Khoikhoi native dogs with their European counterparts
such as the Mastiff, Pointer, Greyhound and the Bloodhound. The Ridgeback
got its distinctive, reverse hair coating from the native Khoikhoi dog,
which makes it unique among other breeds. Rhodesian Ridgeback served
multiple functions such as hunting game, guarding, supervising children and
retrieving. These dogs when kept in packs could ward off lions.
Description
The Rhodesian Ridgeback also known as Ridgeback, African Lion Hound or
African Lion Dog is well-balanced with an appearance denoting agility,
athleticism and strength. Adult size Ridgeback’s are upstanding, handsome
and dignified having a fairly deep and wide chest and a sturdy neck. The
dog’s have fairly well-sprung ribs and a powerful and strong back. The have
slightly and muscular arched loins while their tails are long and strong
forming a slight upward curve. Their forequarters are strong, straight and
heavy boned with compact feet and well-arched toes. The hindquarters are
well-muscled and clean. The Rhodesian Ridgebacks have a long head with a
flat and broad skull between the ears. They have a pronounced stop and a
long, deep and powerful muzzle. They have sparkling round eyes and medium
sized high-set ears that are broad at their base and narrows to a rounded
point. The dog’s nose color is brown, black or liver depending on the color
of its coat. The color of the coat varies from light wheaten to red wheaten.
Temperament
Despite the Rhodesian Ridgeback being a ferocious hunter, it is gentle,
obedient, calm and a good dog at home. Though the dogs get along comfortably
with children, others may be too rough and knock down small children. They
are cunning and intelligent and loyal to its family and will do anything to
protect loved ones. This characteristic makes it quite reserved towards
strangers and will require proper socialization and firm training while they
are still tender. Lack of physical and mental exercise can make this breed
unmanageable and unruly. Ridgebacks make excellent watch dogs but not guard
dogs. The dogs if left on their own for long periods of time can be very
destructive. They make good family dogs but are not for first time dog
keepers.
Health and Care
The Rhodesian Ridgebacks are strong and adapts well in sudden temperature
and climate changes. Like other large breeds, the Ridgeback is susceptible
to cysts, dermoid sinus and hip dysplasia. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a low
maintenance breed. It can live comfortably well in apartments as long as it
receives adequate physical exercise. The dog is fairly inactive indoors and
does best in homes with a sizable yard. Though the dogs have excellent
stamina and do not tire quickly they will still require daily jogs or long
risk walks. If the breed stays inactive for long periods they may start to
display behavioral problems.
Grooming
The Rhodesian ridgeback’s smooth, short haired coat is very easy to take
care of. All that it requires is to be gently brushed at least once or twice
a week and should only be washed if it is necessary.
Pets4You offers listings of
Rhodesian Ridgeback breeders with puppies for sale. |
