“When European settlers arrived in South Africa in the 16th and 17th centuries, they introduced them to breeds like the Mastiff, Great Dane, Bloodhound, Pointer, Staghound, and Greyhound. These settlers wanted a canine that would be comfortable in both warm and cold temperatures, limited water, and rough bush while performing the responsibilities of a hunting canine.

By mixing their European dogs with native Hottentot tribal hunting dogs (which had been outstanding by a ridge of hair growing in the opposite direction along the top of their back), they produced such a canine. These puppies were hunted by sight and scent and had been dedicated protectors of the whole family. In the 1870s, they had taken many of those puppies to Rhodesia to defend from lions, tracking them and keeping them at bay. The “”lion puppies”” had been so successful that they soon became famous, their unique ridge becoming a trademark. By the 1920s, such a lot of unusual varieties of ridged Lion Dogs existed in Rhodesia that a meeting was held to explain the most suited factors of the breed, which became the basis for the present-day breed. Dogs meeting the standard criteria were called Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Rhodesian Ridgebacks had been brought into England in the Thirties and to America soon after.

They received popularity in the Nineteen Fifties and quickly attracted admirers in both cases. In the 1980s, the breed obtained popularity as a sighthound and has become eligible to compete in sighthound field trials. Today, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are some of the famous extra hounds, undoubtedly because they’re an athletic partner in a graceful good-looking body.”

Temperement

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an assertive training dog. They are generally excellent with children and maybe defensive of their family. However, they may be occasionally overly boisterous in play for small children. They are strong-willed and assertive; a few can emerge as domineering. They tend to be reserved with strangers. They usually do well around different dogs, even though males need to be supervised. Ridgebacks are excellent with cats if they’re well socialized or introduced to them.

Upkeep

The Rhodesian Ridgeback likes to run, and they require mental and physical workouts every day to avoid becoming bored. They may be excellent strolling or trekking companion. Coat care is minimal, consisting only of occasional brushing to get rid of dead hair.

Health

“Major diagnosis: none
Minor diagnosis: CHD, hypothyroidism, elbow dysplasia
Occasionally seen: deafness, dermoid sinus
Suggested tests: hip, elbow, thyroid, dermoid sinus (as puppy)
Life span: 10–12 years”

Disclaimer

Note: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet.