Introduction
Personality and power combined, the Rhodesian Ridgeback dog originates from Rhodesia (now Zimbabwe), South Africa. They fall under the ‘hound’ category and because of their innate ability to hunt, they were used to track down large prey such as lions. Now, of course, the breed has become a much-loved and popular family pet.
One must keep in mind that Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs were used for hunting and hence love to run and chase, so potential owners of this breed need to guide these dogs with a firm training regimen to ensure that they remain disciplined – the last thing you want is a mischievous Rhodesian Ridgeback who can outthink and outrun you!
Origins: Traced Back to Africa
The Rhodesian Ridgeback can be distinguished due to the distinctive stripe or ‘ridge’ along its lower back. Its appearance and personality are a tribute to the European hunting dogs and African dogs they were originally bred from – this ridge is a direct link to its heritage.
They are also known as the ‘lion dogs of Africa’ due to the motive behind the breed’s origin, which was to create a hunting dog for large prey. Ridgebacks were used to track and confront lions, bears, and boars – they wouldn’t be used to attack them but were used to keep the lion or other large game at bay while the hunter could get a clean shot.
There are Three Breeds of Ridgeback Dogs
The Ridgeback is one of only three breeds of modern domestic dogs still brandishing this distinctive ridge feature; the three kinds being:
Rhodesian Ridgeback – In the mid-1800s, Europeans imported several breeds to Africa such as Bloodhounds and Great Danes. These with bred with African dogs, resulting in an excellent breed of hunting dogs known as the Rhodesian Ridgeback. Till date, this has remained as a popular and loved breed in Western countries.
Phu Quoc Ridgeback – they belong to southern Vietnam and are similar in appearance and traits to their relatives of Africa.
Thai Ridgeback – they are said to be a mix between the Phu Quoc Ridgeback and other breeds, and are known as Mah Thai Lang Ahn in their native Thailand. The Thai Ridgeback went largely unnoticed by the West until recently, but has now become a recognised, standardised breed.
They Come in Only One Colour
These fast and powerful dogs weighs an average of 36 kg (80 lbs) and stand about 27 inches (69 cm) tall at the shoulder. Rhodesian Ridgebacks live for an average of 11 years and all three reeds vary between a brown or “wheaten” colour with occasional white patches on their chest. They typically have a black nose and muzzle, although brown variants also occur.
Bred as a Hunting Dog
Rhodesian Ridgebacks were originally bred for hunting and despite the years of breeding and domestication, they possess distinct traits of their ancestors. They are an athletic breed and love to run and can keep pace with some of the world’s fastest running dogs! They also love to chase and corner, as they did while helping hunters track down prey.
Extremely Protective of Their Families
Not only was this breed used to hunt, they were also trained to protect farms and families in the untamed, wild regions of Africa. They remain excellent guard dos and are very protective of their families, but require the right training to hone their skills. They are best suited for homes with large yards where they can exercise their strengths. Any intruder would think twice before breaking into a home with a Rhodesian Rideback!
Also Known as Lion Hound or Renaissance Hound
Rhodesian Ridgebacks are also referred to as the ‘reneissance hound’ because of its all-round versatility as a hunting and working dog – they are fast, powerful and intelligent. Its their agility, personality and skills that earned them the reputation and title of being the ‘lion hound of Africa’ because they often accompanied hunters in search of game such as lions. They would not attack the animals but helped the hunters get a clean shot by keeping the prey at bay.
Silent Breed of Dogs
More often than not, the Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are not known to be barkers. They are silent most of the time, but if you do hear them barking then investigate the scene for you know something is wrong!
Athletic Dogs
These dogs are highly intelligent and strong-willed combined with a voracious energy level. They are athletic dogs and need plenty of space and activities to run around, also making them great playmates for children. However, they do require a lot of patient and consistent training to prevent them from becoming rambunctious, domineering troublemakers!
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