Rhodesian Ridgeback Puppy | Breeder Guide

Early Rhodesian Ridgeback History demonstrates that the Hottentot tribal peoples of South Africa used ridge-backed dogs as hunters and companions from about the 15th century. They were bred for the purpose of hunting large game, but instead of killing, they were bred to track and contain the animal by goading and taunting the animal into a state of perplexity.

Once they had cornered their prey they would bark to alert the hunter. The traditional view of "hunting dog" does not accurately describe the Rhodesian Ridgeback in that they were not trained to attack nor were they trained to be aggressive. This particular feature is one of the major defining aspects of this unique and versatile breed.

In the 1800’s European settlers bred these dogs to their own mastiffs and scent hounds. Later, Cornelius Van Rooyen bred smooth coated collies into the breed which gave the dog its endurance. These varieties produced the Ridgeback we now know. Today, few of these dogs are used for their original purpose of hunting; although park conservation opfficers in Kenya use them present day to herd and control large animals. Domestically, they are utilized as guard dogs and companions.

They have been said to be a difficult breed to train, however it is probably more factual to state that traditional methods are not as effective in achieving a goal. These dogs are independent thinkers and will never behave as a circus performer. Take time with training giving positive reinforcement and the rewards will be seen. It is essential that this dog is socialised and introduced to some basic training as young as possible, absent harshness of any kind.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog should have a flat skull, broad between the ears; the muzzle is powerful, long and deep. The jaws should be strong and have a complete scissor bite. The eyes should be round, bright and set well apart. The ears should be high set, medium in size and carried close to the head. The neck should be strong and reasonably long. The chest should be deep but not too wide. The front legs should straight, strong and heavy in bone, the back legs should be muscular and powerful. The feet should be compact, round with well-arched toes. The tail should be carried slightly curved upwards, but never curled. The coat should be short and dense. The ridge of hair which grows in the opposite direction to the rest of the coat must be clear and symmetrical; starting behind the shoulders and running in a tapering line down the spine and ending at the saddle area. There should be two identical crowns of hair, situated across from one another at the start of the ridge at the shoulder area. The colours desired are self-colours in light wheaten to red wheaten. Some white is allowed on the chest and toes, the less white the better.
Country Of Origin South Africa

Energy level is brisk, requiring about 40 - 60 minutes per day of exercise. As a breed the Ridgeback does not require a great deal of exercise, a half hour to 45 minutes a day is adequate, however they are always eager for more if it means more playing is in order. It is reasonable to assume that 3-4 times per week of high activity will suffice. But try to leash walk for at least a half an hour if a particular day doesn't allow for a good romp.

At home, expect a well behaved an calm animal. They co-exist nicely with humans.

They do not like to be left alone, but will be alright for a few hours, and do well if they have another canine companion.

They are fair for Personal Protection, but are not generally aggressive so this restricts their use in a gaurd dog role.

Ridgebacks have a very low tendency to bark, and in fact will not do so without good cause.

General Character And Temperament

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a strong, powerful, large and bold dog. They make an outstanding family companion, having both a gentlemans character, and one of nobility as well. They have to know from an early age who the leader of the pack is, because they can be quite determined and stubborn. Although quite placid and confident at home, they are very wary of strangers. Not the ideal breed for the novice owner.

Rhodesian Ridgeback history is replete with a variety of stories, some obscure, many heroic.