About Rhodesian Ridgebacks
The Boer farmers, immigrants to South Africa in the 16th and 17th centuries brought with them Danes, Mastiffs, Greyhounds, Bloodhounds, Terriers and other breeds. In 1707, European immigration was closed for one hundred years, and the native dogs played an important part in the development and ultimate character of the Ridgeback.
The Hottentots, a native race living in range of these early settlers, had a hunting dog that was half-wild with a ridge on his back formed by the hair growing forward. There was interbreeding between these dogs and those of the settlers, this crossbreeding, in due course, established the foundation stock of our present day Ridgeback. Of necessity, the Boer farmer developed by selective breeding, a distinct breed of the African Veldt-the Ridgeback. In 1877 Rev. Helm introduced two Ridgebacks into Rhodesia where big game hunters found them outstanding in the sport of hunting lions on horseback. They raised and bred these dogs with an appreciation for their exceptional hunting qualities, the ridge on their back becoming a unique trademark. In 1922, a group of Rhodesian breeders set up a standard for Ridgebacks, which has remained virtually unchanged ever since. Some outstanding specimens were imported to the United States in 1950 and the breed was admitted to registration by the AKC in 1955.
The Rhodesian Ridgeback dog is presently the only registered breed indigenous to Southern Africa. In the earlier parts of its history has also been known as Van Rooyen's Lion Dogs, the African Lion Hound or African Lion Dog because of their ability to harass a lion and keep it at bay while awaiting their master to make the kill. They have keen eyesight and will chase anything that moves. This prey drive is very strong and can be quite dangerous if the dog is not contained in a suitable fence or on a leash when out walking. When this "chase" instinct takes over your Ridgeback will not return to you on command - in most cases it won't even hear your command. A conscientious owner will realize that this makes the #1 danger for their dog the automobile. When used for hunting in Africa, the Ridgebacks were hunted in a pack of several hounds. This "pack" mentality has not left the dog because we've moved them into our homes - we must become their pack. Their desire is to be part of our family and they should not be considered "yard dogs". If left to their own lonely devices in the yard they can become destructive and unmanageable when you do spend time with them. You should plan to include the dog in your family with plenty of socialization, basic obedience training, crate training, exercise, etc.
The Ridgeback's distinguishing feature is the ridge of hair along its back running in the opposite direction to the rest of its coat. It consists of a fan-like area formed by two whorls of hair (called "crowns") and tapers from immediately behind the shoulders, down to the level of the hips. Ridgebacks are typically muscular and have a light wheaten to red wheaten coat which should be short and dense, sleek and glossy in appearance. They have a strong, smooth tail, which is usually carried in a gentle curve upwards. Male Ridgebacks should be 25-27 inches (63-69 cm) at the withers, females 24-26 inches (61-66 cm).
Although they can withstand wide temperature variations due to their African heritage, they are sensitive and prefer to be with their human families inside. They were traditionally hunters, guardians, and companions. Despite their athletic, sometimes imposing exterior, the Ridgeback has a sensitive side. Excessively harsh training methods that might be tolerated by a sporting or working dog will likely backfire on a Ridgeback. Intelligent to a fault, the Ridgeback accepts correction as long as it is fair and justified, and as long as it comes from someone he knows and trusts. If this dog with such an independent nature is understood and managed in the proper fashion you can hopefully enjoy 12+ years of life with a unique and wonderful breed. Make certain you study and give a great deal of thought to your lifestyle and the traits of the breed before bringing a Ridgeback into your home. Your commitment should be for the dog's lifetime!
Ridgebacks are loyal, intelligent, and gentle. They are, however, aloof to strangers. This breed requires training and dedication and is only for the experienced dog owner. They are strong-willed, exceptionally clever, and many seem to have a penchant for mischief. A Ridgeback will always try to convince you they are starving and this passion for food can lead to obesity and other health issues. The biggest grooming issue are the toenails which can grow long and hard very quickly. Bi-weekly nail trimming is a must.