The Rhodesian Ridgeback Dog

The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog is one of the oldest native bred dogs of Southern Africa.  Named for the distinctive ridge on its back, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a combination of near feline agility, formidable strength and resilient hardiness.  It is a large muscular breed of dog that has as a singular trait among canines, the ability to hunt lion.  This unique attribute brings to mind a dog of formidable power, dedication and courage.  As one might expect from a dog that was bred to hunt lions, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a tough minded and intelligent breed.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog is a breed that seems to defy classification.  There are frequent disputes as to whether the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a sighthound or scent hound.  Many clubs have at one time or another placed the dog in the hunting group, though now it is considered a hound. Perhaps it's versatility has caused the indecision in times past on what it's capabilities are. There are many testimonials about this dog's ability to flush a pheasant, track and engage a formidable opponent and even work as a cattle drover. One thing is is without dispute; Today, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a family companion, and when owners of this breed are asked their overall opinion of this dog, it's admirers know no rival; They are respected, revered and adored.

Appearance

Rhodesian Ridgeback dogs are so named for a unique identifying "stamp" on its back, where a "ridge" is formed by a part of the coat that grows opposite the general direction of fur growth. They are muscular in appearance having a light "wheaten" to red "wheaten" coat which should be short and dense, as well as sleek and glossy but shouldn't be harsh, wooly or silky to the touch.  His muscles are clearly defined, while his ability to exhibit awesome power far surpasses his appearance.  The "proper" Rhodesian Ridgeback dog should have an equitable balance of endurance, speed, and power.

Temperament

Possessing many of the characteristics generally associated with hounds, the Ridgeback has a quiet, gentle demeanor and rarely barks. Due to it's natural instinct to track lion, it would logically follow that this particular breed of dog would have a temperament congruent with this facet of its nature. However, just the opposite is true of a properly bred Rhodesian Ridgeback dog. They are steadfastly even tempered and they rarely bark or cause a commotion except to alert their family of approaching visitors.  The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog is friendly, obedient and particularly good with children when introduced to them at an early age. However, toddlers also need to be trained to treat all dogs without pestering of any kind. Although they are aloof, or reserved around people that they do not know, a properly bred Ridgeback should not exhibit any aggressive tendencies or shyness. The Ridgeback may approach a stranger with boldness, but this peculiar trait is not generally provocative, but should be interpreted as bold and curious. Rhodesian Ridgebacks are devoted to their owners and make good "alert style" watchdogs.

Training

The look and "presence" of this breed makes the fact that they are highly sensitive and responsive seem out of character. Harsh training methods that might be tolerated by a sporting or working dog will prove to be counter-productive if attempted on this breed.  Training a Ridgeback is not difficult as long as you start early and take advantage of the fact that they are "food motivated". As a family pet, they need a reasobable amount of obedience training and socialization with people and other dogs. Training should be applied steadily in an encouraging way while correction should not be approached in a rough manner. If done properly, there is no equal in canine companionship. 

It would not be proper to call this dog "stubborn", and such comments are born of ingnorance or at least lack of familiarity of the breed. They are intelligent and independent minded because thats how they were bred. This dog would not have had the success that it enjoyed as a Lion Hound if it could not be a problem solver, which by definition requires an independent spirit. The means to control this dog is by virtue of the sensitive disposition he possesses.

Although these dogs are strong willed, they crumble under disapproval, thus training must be undertaken with a delicate touch. This cannot be overstated - These dogs are both sensitive and intelligent, and will not forget rough treatment. Temperament and training are indivisible issues with this breed, any training must be carried out in a positive way.

Obedience

Because of this dog's intensely protective nature, it is important that it be socialized and trained responsibly in obedience. It already posesses innate abilities to protect his family, thus a Ridgeback should never be trained as a guard dog but rather the natural protective tendencies should be augmented with elementary obedience training. A reasonable amount of training makes the Rhodesian Ridgeback a pleasurable companion, hunting partner, or show dog. There are many Rhodesian Ridgebacks with AKC championship obedience titles.  In any case, the Rhodesian Ridgeback needs to have good obedience training as a puppy. 

Health

By nature, Rhodesian Ridgebacks are hardy and can easily live to twelve years old. They are susceptable to very few health problems, if aquired from reputable breeders. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is healthy, low maintenance dog; they are easy to feed, keep clean and exercise.

There are a few breed-specific problems and choosing a pup from healthy stock will reduce the possibility of these arising. Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, hyper/hypo thyroid, and deafness occur on rare occasions. There are reputable breeders that don't have these issues in their lines, and it's best to invest the time to find one.

A foremost health concern for this breed is dermoid sinus, a skin ailment that may be indicated by growths in the back area.  Dermoid sinus is the most serious health problem in this breed, and it is genetic - meaning that statistically it can appear anytime in any bloodline. However some breeders have had better success at reducing its incidence.  You would be wise to educate yourself about the hereditary dog diseases and what measures and precautions the breeder has taken to ensure that your new puppy will grow into a healthy and happy dog.

Summary

Today, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is pirmarily a family companion, frequently used in the sport of lure coursing right alongside Greyhounds and Whippets.   A Rhodesian Ridgeback is loving, loyal, smart, clean, and easy to maintain.  Smart, and responsive, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is very trainable, as long as harshness is not used and positive reinforcement is adhered to. Overall, the Rhodesian Ridgeback is a splendid, capable companion for assertive owners.  Servility is no aspect in the temperament of this breed, however if you desire the experiential relationship with a dog that has spirit and considers himself your equal rather than your servant, you need look no further.. The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog is the companion for you.