Overview: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a fairly playful dog that enjoys a good game and exercise. It doesn't get along with other breeds of dog and doesn't like other animals all that much. Strangers aren't welcome to this dog. It is relatively easy to train as it is receptive to it. It can make an amazing watchdog and excellent protection dog. Grooming is pretty simple and doesn't need a lot of attention. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is somewhat resistant to both cold and heat.

Temperament: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a great hunting dog who is also loyal to its owner. It is good when around children, however small children should be watched as it can be overwhelming when playing. It may become domineering. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is nervous around strangers and can be aggressive around other animals and canine breeds.

History: When settlers from Europe came to South Africa during the 16th and 17th centuries they brought with them a variety of dog breeds. Among these were the Bloodhound, Great Dane, Greyhound, Mastiff, Pointer, and others. These settlers needed a good guard dog that would be a good hunter. Because of the harsh living conditions, the breed would need to survive different climates and not require large amounts of water. They started to breed the dogs that were brought over with the native hunting dog, Hottentot. These cross breedings resulted in dogs that met their needs. During the late 19th century these dogs were taken to Rhodesia to hunt lions. The dog would chase and annoy the lion long enough for the hunter to get in place and shoot the beast. This “Lion Dog” was very successful and soon became quite popular. However, as there were several different types of this “Lion Dog” it was decided to hold a meeting to choose what traits were the best out of all of them and to weed out the rest. The dogs that fit under the standard were named the Rhodesian Ridgeback as the Lion Dog sounded too savage. This breed was first brought to England in the 1930s and soon after that into the United States. In both of these countries the breed gained popularity and soon drew many fans. In the 1980s this dog was accepted as a sighthound and was able to compete in sighthound competitions. Today it is perhaps one of the most popular of hounds.

Names: The Rhodesian Ridgeback is also known as the African Lion Hound.

Groups: The Rhodesian Ridgeback was formally recognized by the American Kennel Club in 1955 and assigned to the Hound Group.

Physical Characteristics: The average adult Rhodesian Ridgeback can be 24 to 27 inches in height and can weigh between 70 and 85 lb. This breed has a muscular and strong looking body that is both symmetrical and balanced. The coat is short and thick with a glossy look to it. It is Light wheaten or red wheaten in color and it may have white marks. The ridgeback name refers to a ridge of hair running the length of the back.

Care: Daily mental and physical exercise is needed for the Rhodesian Ridgeback or it may become dissatisfied and unhappy. While it can easily live outdoors in temperate climates, it likes it better indoors with access to the outdoors. Minimal work on the coat is needed, a brushing to remove dead hair every once in a while.

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