|
A large and muscular dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was not only
developed as hunter but also as a family protector. Originally bred
to hunt lions the breed is also known as the African Lion Hound. A
native of South Africa, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was bred by the Boer
farmers to fill their specific need for a serviceable hunting dog in
the wilds. In 1877 Reverend Helm introduced two Ridgebacks into
Rhodesia where big game hunters found them outstanding in the sport
of hunting lions on horseback. They raised and bred these dogs with
an appreciation for their exceptional hunting qualities, the ridge
on their back becoming a unique trademark. In 1950 outstanding
specimens were imported to the United States and the breed was
admitted to registration by the AKC in 1955.
General Appearance
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, handsome, muscular hound. Its
name describes its most unique characteristic, a clearly defined
symmetrical ridge running the length of its back, formed by hair
that grows in the opposite direction from the rest of its coat. The
short, sleek coat comes in light to dark wheaten, sometimes with
small white markings on the chest and feet. The head is long, the
skull is flat and broad with extremely powerful muzzle and jaw.
Ridgebacks have well developed teeth, and a marked stop. The bright,
sparkling eyes are round with an intelligent expression. The nose
color should be either black or brown, depending on the color of the
coat. The front legs should be very straight and strong, with heavy
bone. The strong tapered tail is fairly long and curves slightly
upward.
Temperament
The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dog that has plenty of energy,
especially as a puppy, and needs an owner that can provide plenty of
stimulation and interaction. These dogs are friendly, but aggression
can be a problem in some lines, which means that early socialization
is essential. Serious, sensible, and dignified, the Rhodesian
Ridgeback is a very independent and confident breed, and is best
suited to owners with confidence, assertiveness, and experience in
dog ownership. He is an intelligent dog and is quick to learn, but
training may prove a challenge as he can also be very testing. This
is a dog that demands respect in order to give respect, and can be a
dominant, demanding, and controlling. However, with the right owner
and the right training, he can be a well balanced, loving family pet
and companion. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a very loyal and
protective dog. His suspicion of strangers makes him an effective
protector. He will get along well with children when brought up with
them, but younger children are not recommended, as these dogs do not
like to be handled roughly. With early socialization he tends to get
along okay with other animals, although he may be bossy with them. A
devoted sight and scent hound, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is prone to
wander off of something stirs his curiosity, and therefore a safe,
secured area is essential unless he is on a leash. With early
socialization, consistent training, and a confident, assertive
owner, the Rhodesian Ridgeback can make a very good family pet.
Grooming
Average shedding, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is easy to groom. A wipe
down with a washcloth or dry towel will suffice and remove some
loose hair. Bathing only when necessary, this breed's coat does not
trap dirt well and is generally clean.
Health Problems and Life Expectancy
The number one major health concern for the Rhodesian Ridgeback is
dermoid sinus, with a minor concern as hip dysplasia. Dermoid Sinus
in the Rhodesian Ridgeback is also called dermoid cyst, hair cyst,
and African cyst. The Dermoid Sinus is similar to Spina Bifida in
humans, and is a congenital condition that is present at birth,
located on the midline of the neck, back, and tail along the spinal
column. The abscess will form and resulting swelling will rupture
the puppy's skin, which is not only painful but can be life
threatening. The life expectancy of the Rhodesian Ridgeback is
around 12 years.
Activity Level
Exercise is a high requirement for the Rhodesian Ridgeback, even
though it is not as high on the level as their watchdog ability or
protection abilities. Very hardy dogs built to run and hunt, this is
a breed that requires constant and very consistent exercise. Owners
such as runners or joggers would make excellent owners for this
breed as they can run for very long distances without tiring. And if
this is available, make sure their are lots of room for the Rhodie
to run and play in, such as a large running yard or walking to parks
or special area. This is a breed that needs exercised from the time
they are young. They respond well to what their owners want, so
working with them is mandatory at a very young age while spending
lots of time with them at play.
|